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Emergency Preparedness and Response

The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations require employers to establish emergency response plans in the event of an emergency that may require rescue or clinic evacuation. 

An emergency may be defined as any situation of a serious nature, developing suddenly and unexpectedly, and demanding immediate attention.

Employer Responsibilities

  • Review Responsibilities

    The emergency response plan must include:

    • An assessment of the risks posed by hazardous substances from accidental release, fire, earthquake, or flood both within the clinic and from surrounding businesses.
    • An inventory of all hazardous substances at the clinic that may endanger staff in an emergency, such as compressed gas or flammable liquids.
    • The employer is required to schedule emergency drills and train staff on emergency evacuation procedures for the practice.

Emergency Procedures

  • Complete Emergency Procedures

    The clinic staff needs to be prepared in the event of an emergency. The comprehensive emergency procedures document can be used and customized for the clinic. Please review this in full and share it with staff to ensure everyone’s health and safety. The rack card should be displayed in a visible area in the clinic.

    Comprehensive Emergency Procedures 
    Emergency Procedures – Rack Card

  • Test your knowledge. Take the Emergency Events quiz!

    Question icon

    Question 1 of 1:

    Which of the following are considered emergencies? Check all that apply.

    Quiz Complete!

    You got out of correct.

Emergency Drill

  • Complete Drill Evaluation Annually

    Employers are expected to plan, prepare, and train their employees for all emergencies. This includes conducting clinic drills once per year and being prepared for emergencies including extreme weather. Emergency drill evaluations need to be by the employer or fire marshal during the annual emergency drill. Keep a record of all inspections, maintenance, and testing.

    Emergency Drill Evaluation

Fire Marshal Duties

  • Select a Fire Marshal

    Every workplace is required to have a designated fire marshal to ensure emergency plans are in place in the event of a fire. Proactively, they check fire detection equipment and identify potential fire hazards such as obstructed exits and improper chemical storage. The fire marshal ensures fire evacuations occur safely for staff and patients while liaising with emergency services.

    Fire Marshal Duties

  • Test your knowledge. Take the Fire Safety Equipment quiz!

    Question icon

    Question 1 of 4:

    How often should a fire extinguisher be checked? (Check all that apply)

    Question 2 of 4:

    True or False. Smoke detectors must be tested monthly to ensure proper functioning?

    Question 3 of 4:

    True or False. Hard-wired smoke detectors (no battery) do not need to be replaced every ten years?

    Question 4 of 4:

    True or False: A malfunctioning smoke alarm could require cleaning.

    Quiz Complete!

    You got out of correct.