The OSHA Standard, Emergency Action Plans (29 CFR 1910.39) states that an emergency action plan must be in writing, kept in the workplace, and available to employees for review. However, an employer with 10 or fewer employees may communicate the plan orally to employees. An emergency action plan for your dental office should include the following key areas: procedures for reporting a fire or other emergency; procedures for emergency evacuation, including type of evacuation and exit routes; and procedures to account for all employees after evacuation. ***Remember to designate a specific meeting place for employees to assemble after they evacuate the building*** Choose a location at least 100 feet from the building and away from areas where emergency vehicles will be entering the area. An example assembly area could be the corner of your parking lot where the dumpster is always kept. Remember to periodically train all your staff on YOUR emergency action procedures!
