Neftaly Evacuation Procedures for People with Disabilities
Introduction
At Neftaly, we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all our employees, clients, and visitors, regardless of their abilities. In case of an emergency evacuation, it is crucial that everyone, including those with disabilities, is able to exit the building in a safe and timely manner. Our evacuation procedures are designed to be inclusive, with consideration for individuals who may have mobility, visual, auditory, cognitive, or other impairments.
The following procedures outline the steps to take in the event of an evacuation, as well as the roles of staff members and safety officers in assisting individuals with disabilities.
1. Pre-Evacuation Preparation
- Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP): All employees with disabilities are encouraged to work with the safety team to develop a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP). This plan should include any necessary accommodations, preferred methods of assistance, and details of any mobility aids or devices.
- Evacuation Assistance Registration: Employees who require evacuation assistance should voluntarily register their needs with the HR or safety officer. This allows for proper planning and ensures there are designated personnel ready to assist.
- Accessible Emergency Equipment: Ensure that evacuation equipment, such as wheelchairs, evacuation chairs, and visual or auditory alarms, are readily available in all accessible locations.
2. During an Evacuation
- Immediate Response: When the evacuation alarm sounds, employees should proceed to the nearest safe exit, following the designated evacuation routes. Individuals with disabilities should be assisted by designated safety personnel or colleagues if necessary.
- Designated Evacuation Assistants: Trained personnel should be assigned to assist people with disabilities during an evacuation. Each employee requiring assistance will have a designated team member or buddy responsible for their safe evacuation. If possible, these assistants should remain in close proximity to those needing help throughout the evacuation process.
- Mobility Impairments:
- If an employee uses a wheelchair or other mobility aids, they should move to the nearest accessible evacuation location (e.g., stairwell refuge area, accessible elevator, etc.).
- For elevators: Elevators should generally not be used in an evacuation unless specifically designated for emergency use in the building’s evacuation plan.
- Evacuation chairs should be used to assist people with mobility impairments in evacuating via stairs or other non-elevator routes.
- Visual Impairments:
- People with visual impairments should be guided to the nearest exit by a trained assistant, using clear verbal instructions.
- A buddy system should be in place to ensure that individuals with visual disabilities are safely escorted.
- Hearing Impairments:
- Visual alarms (such as flashing lights) should be in place to notify employees with hearing impairments when an evacuation is necessary.
- If evacuation is required, staff members or safety officers should be trained to communicate through text or visual signals to direct individuals to the nearest exit.
- Cognitive Impairments:
- Employees with cognitive impairments may require additional time or assistance in understanding evacuation procedures. A clear, simple evacuation plan should be communicated to them in advance.
- A designated assistant should be assigned to help guide them step-by-step, ensuring they feel comfortable and aware of their surroundings.
3. During the Evacuation Process
- Safe Areas/Refuge Areas:
- In the event of an evacuation, people with disabilities may need to temporarily wait in a designated safe area (such as a fire-rated stairwell or a pre-designated refuge area) until they can be safely escorted out of the building.
- Employees in refuge areas should stay in constant communication with safety personnel to be updated on the status of the evacuation and any next steps.
- Evacuation Routes:
- Clear signage indicating accessible routes should be posted throughout the building.
- Evacuation routes should be designed to accommodate people with disabilities, including wide doorways, ramps, and smooth surfaces.
- Assistance at Evacuation Points:
- When reaching the assembly area, designated staff members should ensure that employees with disabilities are accounted for and receive the necessary assistance.
4. Post-Evacuation Procedures
- Headcount and Safety Checks:
- After the evacuation is complete, a headcount should be conducted to ensure all employees, including those with disabilities, are safely out of the building.
- Safety officers will check that all employees with disabilities are present at the assembly point.
- Re-entry Protocols:
- Only when authorities or safety officers deem the building safe will re-entry be allowed. Employees with disabilities should be guided back into the building in a manner that is safe and orderly.
- Feedback and Improvement:
- Following the evacuation, it is essential to collect feedback from employees with disabilities about their experience. This information will be used to improve the emergency evacuation plan for future safety drills or actual emergencies.
5. Training and Drills
- Regular Evacuation Drills: Evacuation drills, including those for people with disabilities, should be conducted regularly. These drills will help identify potential areas for improvement in the evacuation process.
- Employee Training: All employees, including those with disabilities, should be trained on the evacuation procedures. Training should be inclusive, ensuring that everyone understands how to act during an emergency.
Conclusion
The safety of our employees, including those with disabilities, is a top priority at Neftaly. Our evacuation procedures are designed to be inclusive and accessible to everyone, ensuring that no one is left behind in the event of an emergency. Through thoughtful planning, communication, and assistance, we strive to create a safe environment for all individuals, no matter their ability.
For any questions, concerns, or to update your Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP), please contact your safety officer or HR representative.
