The elaboration of an emergency response plan for an industrial company is a complex mission. It requires, as a preliminary, the realization of an analysis of the incurred risks, of the means at disposal for the management of the emergency and of the organization of the adapted operational response. A industrial risk assessment audit allows us to identify the problems, to evaluate their control and to plan prevention measures.
Plan for emergencies to maintain safety
The emergency response plan or internal operation plan (IOP) provides an operational and coordinated response to any crisis situation. When an industrial incident occurs, only a perfectly organized security team can ensure the protection of the people, the environment and the property at risk.
Assessment of risks and possible accident scenarios
An industrial site is, in essence, subject to numerous operating risks. If we add the natural risks, a good number of accident scenarios can be envisaged. An exhaustive risk analysis is essential. It allows to define the adequate means and measures of protection.
Many examples, such as the accident at the Fukushima power plant, are instructive. They remind us that an industrial incident does not always occur where we expect it to. The assessment of the risks incurred by an industrial site must take into account all the penalizing consequences. Even when the disaster is contained, collateral damage is possible.
Human and material resources for the protection of industrial sites
An industrial site must be equipped with operational facilities to respond effectively to all emergency situations. The training of safety personnel takes into account all identified accident scenarios. The personnel in charge of site safety must be able to manage :
- evacuation of personnel;
- first aid for victims;
- fire fighting, spreading of products, toxic discharges;
- protection of surrounding facilities and the outer perimeter.
Close collaboration with the emergency services is part of the means to fight a crisis.
Commitment plans and implementation of means of action and protective measures
The emergency response plan or internal operation plan defines and describes the instructions and procedures for emergency situations. The use of disorganized emergency resources inevitably leads to failure. In addition, it leads to unnecessary risk-taking. It is essential to define the following procedures:
- triggering the alert and calling the emergency services ;
- evacuation of people ;
- Implementation of measures to combat the feared event and the spread of the disaster;
- first aid to victims.
The protection of the immediate environment of the disaster site makes it possible to contain it. It is important to avoid by all means a worsening of the situation.
The crisis exit plan
After a fire, a chaotic situation often remains. When the company has retained operational capacities, it is necessary to prepare the resumption of activity. The safety of the affected areas and the security of the movements on the site are essential.
Planning an audit, site evaluation
Developing an emergency response plan, or evaluating an existing document, is a matter for specialists. At Gesip, we put our expertise at the service of your company's security. Ask us how to carry out an industrial risk assessment audit. It will allow us to assess the safety situation on your site. We can then advise you on risk prevention, emergency management and operational organization.