AS 3745 Planning for Emergencies in Facilities
Australian Standard 3745, "Planning for Emergencies in Facilities," provides a clear framework for creating safer workplaces by developing customised emergency and evacuation plans.
While primarily targeting commercial and public buildings, the standard applies to a wide range of facilities and structures. It aims to reduce risk, protect lives, and enhance emergency readiness in situations such as natural disasters or hazardous incidents.
This blog explores the key components of AS 3745 and how your business can effectively align with its requirements.
AS 3745 Components of Planning for Emergencies in Facilities
Emergency Planning Committee (EPC)
Formation of the EPC
For planning and managing emergencies, an Emergency Planning Committee is formed. It includes safety officers, facility managers, and representatives of stakeholders.
Roles and responsibilities of EPC members
The Emergency Planning Committee is responsible for creating and maintaining the emergency plan, assessing risks, defining procedures, and managing evacuation diagrams.
Emergency Plan
An emergency plan is a written set of instructions that outlines what workers and others in the workplace should do in the event of an emergency. It includes details like evacuation procedures, emergency roles, and responsibilities.
Identification and assessment of potential emergencies
Emergency plans should address various scenarios, including fires, explosions, medical incidents, chemical spills, bomb threats, and natural disasters. These plans must be based on a practical assessment of the specific hazards and risks present in the workplace.
For a deeper understanding of how to conduct assessments in line with the standard, visit our blog on AS 3745:2010.
Communication methods and emergency contacts
A crucial part of AS3745 planning for emergencies in facilities is establishing reliable communication methods. This includes Public address systems, two-way radios, alarms, SOS alerts, as well as updated contact lists for internal ECO members and external services such as fire and ambulance, and Inclusive methods for individuals with disabilities.
Emergency Response Procedures
It mandates documented emergency response procedures specific to each identified type of emergency. These should outline: Steps to take before, during, and after an emergency, assigned roles and responsibilities, and Shelter-in-place protocols that are applicable.
Clear instructions for occupants and visitors
All procedures must be written clearly and concisely, so that visitors and occupants can easily understand them, using simple, step-by-step formats with bolded actions and standard symbols.
Procedures for persons with disabilities
AS 3745 emphasises inclusivity; the procedures must account for people with disabilities, including provisions for mobility aids, communication assistance, support staff, and safe refuge areas.
Emergency Control Organisation (ECO)
Structure and appointment of ECO
It comprises of a trained team that is responsible for responding during emergencies. Typically composed of: Chief Warden, Area Wardens, and Floor Wardens. Each member must be formally appointed with defined roles and responsibilities.
Roles of chief warden, area wardens, floor wardens, etc.
Chief Warden: Carries out the overall command, initiates evacuations, liaises with emergency services.
Area/Floor Wardens: Carry out evacuations in their zones and assist persons in need.
Wardens: Manage occupants, operate alarms, and direct people to exits.
ECO duties during emergencies
During any emergency, ECO members are assigned to carry out duties such as raising alarms, initiating emergency procedures, ensuring a safe and orderly evacuation, reporting to the chief warden, and updating emergency services.
Evacuation Diagrams
Design, content, and format requirements
It must include the facility’s layout, exits, assembly areas, fire equipment, and the “You Are Here” marker. Use of consistent symbols and it must meet minimum size and legibility standards.
Location and positioning of diagrams
Diagrams must be laminated and installed at an eye height of (1.2-1.6 m) and placed near exits, stairwells, or lifts.
Maintenance and updating of diagrams
They should be reviewed regularly, particularly after layout changes, and updates must reflect any modifications in structure or procedures.
To learn more about compliance and diagram design, visit Activate Safety’s evacuation diagram services.
Training and Instruction
ECO training frequency and content
ECO members must be trained when appointed and refreshed atleast annually. It includes practising evacuations, identifying assembly points, locating emergency equipment, first aid arrangements, and how to safely shut down machinery.
Occupant instruction and induction
All occupants, including contractors and visitors, should receive an induction on evacuation procedures, alarm signals, and other relevant information.
Training records
All training records must be maintained and logged, including the content delivered, attendees, and dates.
Emergency Response Exercises
Frequency and type of exercises
Atleast one full-scale evacuation drill should be conducted annually. Whereas, additional functional exercises should be conducted more frequently.
Evaluation of exercises and lessons learned
A post-exercise review should be conducted in conjunction with gathering feedback from participants, which helps identify areas for improvement.
Record-keeping of exercises
Each and every exercise must be documented. It should contain date, type, participants, evaluation outcomes, and corrective actions.
Review and Maintenance
Scheduled review of the emergency plan and diagrams
The emergency plan and diagrams should be reviewed annually, or whenever changes occur, along with the maintenance of emergency equipment and resources, to keep the entire process relevant.
Continuous improvement of emergency arrangements
Emergency planning is a dynamic process that evolves in response to new risks or changes. Regular feedback from drills and incidents, periodic audits, and the adoption of industry best practices help keep plans effective and up-to-date.
Conclusion
Therefore, compliance with AS 3745, which involves planning for emergencies in facilities, goes beyond regulation; it's a vital step toward ensuring workplace safety. With a strong emergency plan, trained staff, clear evacuation diagrams, and routine drills, your facility stays prepared for any emergency.
If you need any help regarding this? We’ve got you covered. Activate Safety can assist you in designing evacuation diagrams and establishing comprehensive emergency plans tailored to your specific facility.