(AM) SSE 826 - Emergency preparedness Flashcards
(17 cards)
Q1 / Section 1 (Emergency prep.): Briefly explain why performing risk assessment during emergency response planning is so important?
Answer: Performing risk assessment during emergency response planning is crucial because it allows organizations to:
- Identify Potential Hazards: Recognize and understand the various risks that could impact the organization during an emergency, including natural disasters, equipment failures, and human errors. (Ex. Arizona doesn’t need to plan for severe winter emergencies, etc.)
- Prioritize Risks: Evaluate the likelihood and potential impact of each identified hazard, enabling the organization to focus resources on the most significant threats. (Midwest states don’t need to plan for hurricanes or tropical storms. However, it could be prioritized as a lower need based on the potential of severe weather once the storm makes landfall and effects the rest of the USA, etc.)
- Develop Effective Response Strategies: Create tailored response plans that address the specific risks identified, ensuring a more organized and effective response during an actual emergency.
- Enhance Preparedness: Ensure that all stakeholders are aware of the risks and are adequately trained to respond appropriately, thereby reducing panic and improving overall readiness.
- Minimize Losses: By anticipating and preparing for potential emergencies, organizations can mitigate the impact of disasters, protecting human lives, property, and business operations.
- Compliance and Legal Protection: Adhering to regulatory requirements and demonstrating due diligence in emergency preparedness can protect the organization from legal repercussions and enhance its reputation.
Overall, risk assessment is a foundational element of emergency response planning that helps organizations proactively manage potential threats and respond more effectively when emergencies occur.
Q1 / Section 1 (Emergency prep.): Think about how a quickly developing emergency situation such as a fire, chemical spill/release, tornado, etc., occurs at a large employer’s site (i.e., manufacturing facility, hospital, etc.). More specifically, consider the actual occurrence of the emergency event and up to an hour or so immediately following the event. Then, in as much detail as possible, explain what issues/matters must be addressed and directed by the employer’s emergency action/disaster response plan to effectively deal with these issues/matters arising during this time frame:
Key Elements of the Plan
(1.) Clear Communication Protocols
(2.) Defined Roles & Responsibilities
(3.) Regular Training & Drills
(4.) Emergency Supplies & Equipment
(5.) Post-Incident Review
Q1 / Section 1 (Emergency prep.): Think about how a quickly developing emergency situation such as a fire, chemical spill/release, tornado, etc., occurs at a large employer’s site (i.e., manufacturing facility, hospital, etc.). More specifically, consider the actual occurrence of the emergency event and up to an hour or so immediately following the event. Then, in as much detail as possible, explain what issues/matters must be addressed and directed by the employer’s emergency action/disaster response plan to effectively deal with these issues/matters arising during this time frame:
- Immediate response:
(1.) Detection & Communication
(2.) Evacuation & Shelter-in-Place
(3.) Emergency Response Team Activation
- Current response;
(4.) Coordination with External Emergency Services
(5.) Hazard Containment
(6.) Medical Assistance
- Follow-up response:
(7.) Incident Stabilization
(8.) Communication & Updates
(9.) Safety & Security
(10.) Documentation & Reporting
Q2 / Section 1 (Emergency prep.): You have been hired as a consultant to help Acme Chemical Inc. (“Acme”) develop a comprehensive emergency action and disaster preparedness plan, etc….
Q: What additional information would you wish to gather to better assess the risks relevant to Acme’s emergency action/disaster preparedness planning efforts and why? (Approximately two to four paragraphs.)
Answer: To better assess the risks for Acme’s emergency action and disaster preparedness plan, several additional pieces of information would be crucial:
(1.) Chemical Inventory and Storage Details: Detailed information on the types and quantities of industrial solvents stored and processed at the facility, along with their chemical properties and hazards.
(2.) Transportation Routes and Frequencies: A comprehensive understanding of the transportation routes used for shipping out solvents via rail cars, tanker trucks, and smaller packages. This includes the frequency of shipments and potential exposure routes in case of accidents or spills.
(3.) Emergency Response Capabilities: Detailed assessment of the capabilities and response times of the Rural County EMS services and fire department, including the availability of hazmat response teams and specialized equipment.
(4.) Community Population Density and Vulnerable Groups: Mapping out the population density around the facility, identifying vulnerable groups such as schools, residential areas, and the Ruralville Elementary School specifically, which is three miles away.
(5.) Environmental Vulnerabilities: Understanding the environmental vulnerabilities such as nearby water bodies, including any sensitive ecosystems that could be impacted by chemical spills or accidents.
Q2 / Section 1 (Emergency prep.): You have been hired as a consultant to help Acme Chemical Inc. (“Acme”) develop a comprehensive emergency action and disaster preparedness plan, etc….
Q: What natural disasters/emergencies (i.e., meteorological, geological, etc.) do you anticipate you need to plan for, and why? (One paragraph maximum.)
Answer: What natural disasters/emergencies (i.e., meteorological, geological, etc.) do you anticipate you need to plan for, and why? Given the location and operations of Acme Chemical Inc., the natural disasters and emergencies to plan for would include:
(1.) Severe Weather Events: Kentucky is prone to severe weather like tornadoes, thunderstorms, and flooding. These events could impact transportation routes, cause power outages, or affect the structural integrity of the facility.
(additional info): Kentucky is part of “Dixie Alley,” a region in the southeastern United States that is prone to tornadoes, especially during the spring and summer months. Tornadoes can cause significant damage to infrastructure and pose serious risks to safety.
(2.) Severe winter weather hazards: Kentucky experiences cold winters with the potential for snow, ice storms, and freezing temperatures. These conditions can disrupt transportation, cause power outages, and create hazardous walking and driving conditions.
(3.) Earthquakes: Kentucky is near the New Madrid Seismic Zone, which can produce significant earthquakes. Although less frequent than other types of disasters, the potential impact of a major earthquake necessitates preparedness.
(4.) Droughts: Reason: Although less immediate, droughts can affect water supply, agriculture, and increase the risk of wildfires.
Q2 / Section 1 (Emergency prep.): You have been hired as a consultant to help Acme Chemical Inc. (“Acme”) develop a comprehensive emergency action and disaster preparedness plan, etc….
Q: Briefly name and discuss at least three, internal emergencies that you anticipate as priorities. In discussing these three, internal accidental emergencies, be sure to briefly explain why you consider them priorities. (HINTS: Internal emergencies refer to those that would stem from Acme’s operations – not other operations of other facilities and/or community. There is no one set, correct list of emergencies, and your thought process in anticipating and assessing potential emergencies is most important.) (Approximately one to two paragraphs.)
Answer: Internal emergencies stemming from Acme’s operations that would be priorities include:
(1.) Chemical Spills and Releases: Given the handling and transport of industrial solvents, accidental spills or releases can pose immediate risks to employees, infrastructure, and the environment. Rapid containment and mitigation are crucial to minimize impacts.
(2.) Fire and Explosion: The use and storage of solvents increase the risk of fire hazards and potential explosions. Ensuring robust fire suppression systems, evacuation procedures, and training are essential to protect personnel and property.
(3.) Equipment Malfunctions: Operational failures within machinery or systems can lead to process disruptions, chemical leaks, or other safety hazards. Monitoring and maintenance protocols must be in place to prevent such incidents and respond promptly if they occur.
Q2 / Section 1 (Emergency prep.): You have been hired as a consultant to help Acme Chemical Inc. (“Acme”) develop a comprehensive emergency action and disaster preparedness plan, etc….
Q: Briefly name and discuss at least three, external emergencies that you anticipate as priorities. In discussing these three, external accidental emergencies, be sure to briefly explain why you consider them priorities. (HINTS: External, accidental emergencies refer to those that would arise from the community surrounding Acme. Similar to number 5, there is no one set, correct list of emergencies, and your thought process in anticipating and assessing potential emergencies is most important.) (Approximately one to two paragraphs.)
Answer: External emergencies that could impact Acme and require prioritized planning include:
(1.) Transportation Accidents: Accidents involving tanker trucks or rail cars carrying solvents pose risks beyond the facility’s boundaries. Coordinating with local authorities and first responders to manage spills and protect nearby communities is essential.
(2.) Severe Weather Events: Tornadoes, severe storms, or flooding can disrupt transportation routes, damage infrastructure, and affect emergency response capabilities. Preparedness includes monitoring weather forecasts and implementing contingency plans to ensure employee safety and minimize operational disruptions.
(3.) Community Evacuations: Emergencies such as chemical releases or fires may necessitate evacuations of nearby areas, including the Ruralville Elementary School and residential neighborhoods. Collaborative planning with local agencies is critical to ensure timely notifications and safe evacuations.
Q1 / Section 2 (SSE 826 Emergency prep): Briefly name four common, essential components (i.e., sections, topical areas, etc.) for an employer’s emergency and disaster preparedness plan.
(1.) Risk Assessment and Hazard Identification (2.) Emergency Response Procedures: (3.) Communication Plan (4.) Training and Drills
Q1 / Section 2 (SSE 826 Emergency prep): Briefly explain four common, essential components (i.e., sections, topical areas, etc.) for an employer’s emergency and disaster preparedness plan. (In explaining each of the essential components, make sure you explain the purpose/objective of each component/section you name.)
Q: Explain Risk Assessment and Hazard identification
Purpose: This section assesses potential risks and identifies hazards specific to the workplace. It helps in understanding what emergencies or disasters could occur, their likelihood, and potential impacts on employees, infrastructure, and operations. By identifying these risks, employers can prioritize resources and develop appropriate response strategies.
Q1 / Section 2 (SSE 826 Emergency prep): Briefly explain four common, essential components (i.e., sections, topical areas, etc.) for an employer’s emergency and disaster preparedness plan. (In explaining each of the essential components, make sure you explain the purpose/objective of each component/section you name.)
Q: Explain Emergency response procedures:
Purpose: This outlines specific actions employees should take during emergencies to ensure their safety and the safety of others. It includes protocols for evacuation, sheltering, medical response, communication methods, and responsibilities of key personnel. Clear procedures help minimize confusion and ensure a swift and coordinated response during critical situations.
Q1 / Section 2 (SSE 826 Emergency prep): Briefly explain four common, essential components (i.e., sections, topical areas, etc.) for an employer’s emergency and disaster preparedness plan. (In explaining each of the essential components, make sure you explain the purpose/objective of each component/section you name.)
Q: Explain Communication Plan:
Purpose: This details how information will be communicated during emergencies to employees, stakeholders, emergency services, and the public. It includes protocols for notifying employees of an emergency, establishing communication channels (e.g., emergency notification systems, phone trees, etc.), and ensuring clear, accurate, and timely information dissemination. Effective communication is crucial for coordination and maintaining calm during crises.
Q1 / Section 2 (SSE 826 Emergency prep): Briefly explain four common, essential components (i.e., sections, topical areas, etc.) for an employer’s emergency and disaster preparedness plan. (In explaining each of the essential components, make sure you explain the purpose/objective of each component/section you name.)
Q: Explain Training and Drills:
- Purpose: This component ensures that employees are adequately trained to respond to emergencies effectively. It includes regular drills to practice emergency procedures, training sessions to educate employees on their roles and responsibilities, and familiarization with emergency equipment and resources. Training and drills help improve response times, ensure proper execution of procedures, and enhance overall preparedness levels.
Q1 / Section 2 (SSE 826 Emergency prep): Organizational emergency response plans have objectives to protect certain things. These protective objectives have an order of importance. Name, in order, three protective objectives of any emergency/disaster response plan:
(1.) Life safety: The primary objective is to protect human life and ensure the safety and well-being of employees, visitors, and any other individuals within the premises. This includes implementing measures to evacuate safely, provide medical assistance, and prevent injuries or fatalities.
(2.) Property protection: The second objective is to safeguard physical assets, infrastructure, and facilities from damage or destruction during emergencies. This involves strategies such as securing buildings, equipment, and critical systems, as well as mitigating risks to minimize property loss.
(3.) Business continuity: The third objective is to maintain essential business operations and services to the extent possible during and after emergencies. This includes implementing contingency plans, establishing alternative work sites, restoring critical functions, and ensuring minimal disruption to operations and services.
Q2 / Section 2 (SSE 826 Emergency prep): You have been hired as a consultant to help Git-R-Done Inc. (“the Company”), a large-scale lawn and landscaping business, to develop a comprehensive emergency action and disaster preparedness plan for its operations in North Carolina…
Q: What additional information would you wish to gather to better assess the risks relevant to Git-R-Done’s emergency action/disaster preparedness planning efforts and why? (Approximately one to two paragraphs.)
Additional Information for Risk Assessment: To better assess the risks relevant to Git-R-Done’s emergency action and disaster preparedness planning efforts, several pieces of additional information would be crucial:
(1.) Environmental Vulnerability Assessment: Understanding the specific vulnerabilities of each location to coastal storms, flooding, and other local environmental risks.
(2.) Infrastructure Assessment: Evaluating the structural integrity of buildings, storage facilities, and equipment against potential hazards like hurricanes, floods, or earthquakes.
(3.) Emergency Response Capability: Assessing the adequacy of current emergency response procedures, availability of emergency supplies (e.g., first aid kits, emergency generators), and training levels of employees, especially those handling hazardous materials.
(4.) Communication Protocols: Determining how communication will be maintained during emergencies, especially considering potential disruptions in telecommunications due to natural disasters.
Q2 / Section 2 (SSE 826 Emergency prep): You have been hired as a consultant to help Git-R-Done Inc. (“the Company”), a large-scale lawn and landscaping business, to develop a comprehensive emergency action and disaster preparedness plan for its operations in North Carolina…
Q: What natural disasters/emergencies (i.e., meteorological, geological, etc.) do you anticipate you need to plan for, and why? (Approximately one to two paragraphs.)
Anticipated Natural Disasters/Emergencies: For Git-R-Done Inc., the following natural disasters/emergencies should be planned for:
(1.) Hurricanes and Tropical Storms: Coastal Town’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean makes it susceptible to hurricanes, which can bring strong winds, storm surges, and heavy rainfall.
(2.) Flooding: Coastal and inland flooding can occur due to hurricanes, heavy rainfall, or storm surges, potentially affecting operations and infrastructure at all locations.
(3.) Severe Weather Events: Including thunderstorms with lightning, hail, and tornadoes, which can impact both field operations and facility safety.
Q2 / Section 2 (SSE 826 Emergency prep): You have been hired as a consultant to help Git-R-Done Inc. (“the Company”), a large-scale lawn and landscaping business, to develop a comprehensive emergency action and disaster preparedness plan for its operations in North Carolina…
Q: Briefly name and discuss at least three non-natural emergencies you anticipate as priorities in the response plan? In discussing these three, non-natural emergencies, be sure to briefly explain why you consider them priorities (Approximately one to two paragraphs.)
Non-Natural Emergencies as Priorities: Considering Git-R-Done’s operations, three non-natural emergencies that should be prioritized in the response plan include:
(1.) Chemical Spills and Hazmat Incidents: Given the storage of herbicides, pesticides, and other chemicals, protocols for containment, cleanup, and ensuring employee safety are critical.
(2.) Equipment Failures and Fires: Maintenance of equipment and storage of flammable materials (like gasoline and diesel) necessitate protocols for fire prevention, suppression, and evacuation.
(3.) Worksite Accidents and Medical Emergencies: Field operations involving heavy equipment and machinery increase the risk of accidents requiring immediate medical response and evacuation procedures.
Q2 / Section 2 (SSE 826 Emergency prep): You have been hired as a consultant to help Git-R-Done Inc. (“the Company”), a large-scale lawn and landscaping business, to develop a comprehensive emergency action and disaster preparedness plan for its operations in North Carolina…
Q: How does the mobile nature of field employees affect the emergency/disaster planning, and what additional or unique considerations (or information) will need to be included in Git-R-Done’s emergency response plan that may not be present in an employer’s plan where all/most employees are at a single location all day?
Impact of Field Employees on Emergency Planning: The mobile nature of field employees presents unique challenges and considerations for Git-R-Done’s emergency/disaster planning:
(1.) Communication Challenges: Ensuring reliable communication channels between field crews and central management during emergencies, potentially relying on mobile phones, radios, or satellite communication.
(2.) Evacuation Protocols: Developing clear evacuation routes and procedures that account for employees working in dispersed locations across Coastal Town and nearby areas.
(3.) Training and Awareness: Providing field employees with comprehensive training on emergency procedures, hazard recognition, and response protocols specific to their work environments.
