Included in this issue:
- DISASTER PREPARATION
- GREAT CALIFORNIA SHAKEOUT
- VALUE OF ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP
- DISASTER PREPARATION - A REQUIREMENT OF OSHA:
In California, we have been warned for some time about the imminent threat of a major earthquake. This year, we have seen the damage from tornadoes, severe thunderstorms with power outages, and other severe weather conditions. Past memories of hurricanes, and violent and/or terrorist actions remind us that such disasters can happen at any time, as can accidents leading to fires and other building emergencies. Ready or not, these events can happen, which is why it's crucial for you to regularly conduct disaster training with your employees.
It's also crucial to review your organization's emergency action plan in general and in specific circumstances. (it's also required by OSHA). Annually, it's a good idea to go over the general principles that the disaster planning emergency plan covers in detail, such as:
- Emergency escape procedures and routes for all departments and employees
- Emergency response assignments to be followed by employees who remain in the facility to perform critical operations or shutdown operations before the facility is completely evacuated
- Accounting for personnel outside the facility after the emergency evacuation has been completed
- Rescue and medical duties for those employees who are designated to perform these vital emergency response tasks
- Emergency reporting procedures for fires and other emergencies
- Information resources, including the names and job titles of the people or departments to be contacted for further information or explanation of duties under the plan
At certain times of the year when specific dangers may occur, do a training session on how to be ready for that particular disaster. If you're located in an earthquake zone, any time of year is an appropriate time to discuss earthquake safety procedures. Any time of year is also a good time to train in workplace violence prevention and response.
Why It Matters
- Being prepared can save lives.
- Taking precautions can also help prevent property damage.
- Overall disaster planning can alleviate the destruction from all types of disasters.
- Preparation can help you serve your clients and customers when they need you the most.
- PREPARE FOR DISASTER - THAT'S WHAT THE GREAT CALIFORNIA SHAKEOUT IS ALL ABOUT
This is the 3rd year our association is participating in the Great California ShakeOut. The Shakeout is your chance to practice how to protect ourselves when big earthquakes happen, and to get prepared for a quick recovery. We encourage you to participate to protect yourself, your employees and to be able to serve your clients. Simple instructions for how to participate are available for a variety of ShakeOut participant categories, and include custom preparedness information and suggestions for how you can share the ShakeOut with others. Just check out: http://www.shakeout.org/
To help you plan, the organization has created drill manuals for Schools, Businesses, Non Profits and Other Organizations, and Facilities. These can be adapted for use by other organizations as well. Each manual has instructions for multiple levels of drills, from a very basic Drop, Cover, and Hold On drill to a more comprehensive exercise of your disaster plan.
- DROP to the ground (before the earthquake drops you!)
- Take COVER by getting under a sturdy desk or table (or against a wall with your arms covering your head/neck), and
- HOLD ON to it until the shaking stops (in this case, 60 seconds)
As more help for our association members, we are preparing a hazard inspection checklist for earthquake preparedness. Watch for the announcement that this new resource is available for you, coming soon!
- VALUE OF ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP...
IN THE ATTORNEYS AND ACCOUNTANTS ASSOCIATION:
PARTICIPATION BENEFITS Your firm's participation in our group program:
- Saves you 6% off of your premium;
- Provides you safety materials to promote a safe work place for you and your employees, via our website and this e-newsletter on office safety;
- Our cost free Video/DVD Safety Lending Library provides you resources to meet your training obligations under California's safety laws, and good management practice; and
- Member dues have been reduced to only $10 per year.
HELP WITH SAFETY QUESTIONS
You can ask me as your safety consultant any questions about safety or seek advice by sending an email, Safety4Lawyers@gmail.com. Also, check out the resources and download forms available any time at our website: www.attny-cpasafety.org.
Consider Cal/OSHA Consultation Service
Cal/OSHA Consultation Service can help with your Workplace Safety and Health needs. The more you know about your workplace hazards and how to correct them, the more effective your safety program. The Cal/OSHA Consultation Service can help by:
- Identifying and analyzing hazards
- Recommending best-practice solutions
- Helping you with your safety program
- Helping you strengthen your safety culture
- Providing training assistance
Visit www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/consultation.html for a complete listing of services.
Don Dressler, Safety Group Manager
Attorneys and Accountants Association
Ph: 949-533-3742
Fax: 949-266-9561 |
