AT WORK

Step 6: Prepare a Workplace Emergency Survival Kit

Being prepared for an emergency includes the preparation of an emergency survival kit. A workplace emergency survival kit contains all of the basic items employees need to remain comfortable in the event an emergency occurs and employees are required to remain at work or evacuate the workplace for a period of time.

Depending on the workplace, it may be easier to have several workplace emergency survival kits stored on various floors or in different departments. However they are stored, is important the contents of your workplace emergency survival kit be kept together in easy to carry containers or bags. This is because you might have to leave your office as a result of an emergency and this will ensure you have all of your basic supplies with you. Your workplace emergency survival kit should be kept in an easy-to-reach location and all staff should know where.

The Workplace Emergency Survival Checklist below outlines the basic items that your kit should contain:

  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Radio and batteries or crank radio
  • Spare batteries (for radio and flashlight)
  • First-aid kit
  • Telephone that can work during a power disruption
  • Candles and matches/lighter
  • Extra cash (small bills and coins)
  • Non-perishable food (ready-to-eat items that do not require refrigeration)
  • Manual can opener
  • Bottled water
  • Extra clothing and footwear
  • Blankets or sleeping bags
  • Toilet paper and other personal items
  • Medication (non-prescription types)
  • Backpack/duffle bag
  • Whistle (to attract attention, if needed)
  • Playing cards

Each individual in the workplace should think about whether there are other essential items they would need in an emergency and make sure that they prepare a smaller workplace emergency survival kit that they maintain and keep with them. These additional essential items might include special medications and assistive devices. Since emergency supply requirements vary for individuals with special needs and different disabilities, please refer to the Emergency Preparedness Guide for People With Disabilities/Special Needs

<- Previous Step

Next Step ->