Georgia911 Risk Insurance – Business Liability Insurance

Most ordinary insurance policies do not cover against earthquake damage. More

Flood Insurance for Homeowners

Just because it has not happened before doesn't mean it won’t in the future. More

Home & Contents Insurance

Homeowners insurance covers private homes in the event of damage or loss to the property or structure. More

Severe Weather Warnings

Contact information and details for weather centers and severe weather warning services. More

Office Evacuation Procedures Checklist

In the event of an emergency or disaster situation an office evacuation procedure plan should be in place and steps followed to ensure a safe evacuation for all members of staff. It is essential to stay calm and for everyone to follow the correct emergency evacuation procedures and protocols. Regular office evacuation drills are vital so that all employees are aware of emergency exits and evacuation procedures.

  • Stay calm, do not panic or rush.
  • Sound the emergency alarm or fire alarm.
  • Alert the emergency services.
  • Stop your work safely.
  • Alert your co-workers.
  • Only gather your personal belongings if it is safe to do so. Belongings are replaceable while human life is not.
  • Assist in the evacuation of staff with disabilities if possible.
  • Close your office door or windows if it is safe to do so.
  • As it may be hours before you are allowed back into the office take your prescription medication with you. Again this is only if you have time and it is safe to do so.
  • Make your way to the nearest exit.
  • Do not use the elevator during an emergency evacuation.
  • Make your way to the emergency assembly point if it is safe to do so.
  • Wait for further instructions from the emergency response team or management.

Procedures for the evacuation of people with disabilities

  • Initiate a buddy system so that people with disabilities are assisted during an evacuation situation.
  • If a person is visually impaired give clear verbal instructions and directions on how to exit using the safest route.
  • If a person is hearing impaired get their attention through touch or eye contact, offer visual instructions.
  • For staff members who use mobility equipment or wheelchairs it may be necessary to clear debris away from the exit route.
  • Only attempt a rescue evacuation if you have received proper training or if you cannot wait for professional help unless the person is in immediate danger.
  • Assist the person to a safer area away from the hazard if they are unable to exit the building. This would include enclosed stairwells.

Temporary Business Accommodation

Having to evacuate an office for any length of time can cause serious financial difficulties for the business. Companies that are unable to return to their primary place of work due to emergencies or natural disasters may find that using serviced office space for a short time is a more economical solution than trying to rent traditional office space for the same duration. Serviced space comes with everything already in place (furniture, equipment, cabling, telephone) saving you time and money and making it easier to move back into your primary place of work once it is safe to do so.