In the workplace, it is critically important to have an emergency response plan. Plans such as these are essential for ensuring the safety of both our residents and staff, keeping services running smoothly, and protecting important resources. As an employee, understanding and learning about these plans is part of your OHS responsibility and can make a huge difference when an emergency happens.
Keeping Residents and Staff Safe
First and foremost, the main goal of an emergency response plan is to keep everyone safe. In our facilities, residents are vulnerable and have complex health needs. Knowing what to do in emergencies like fires, medical crises, or natural disasters is something we all need to take seriously. Regular practice through table tops exercises, and practice drills ensures that everyone remains calm and knows exactly what to do when a real emergency happens.
Ensuring Continuity of Care
Emergencies can disrupt the care that residents need. A good emergency response plan will help minimize disruption to that care. As employees of Bethany, we play a key role by following established emergency protocols and ensuring that care to residents continues even in an emergency.
Protecting Important Resources
Protecting medical records, medications, and equipment is also important. Emergency plans include steps for safeguarding these resources such as in a cyberattack, quick action can prevent the loss of sensitive medical information can help protect residents’ confidential data and keep the facility running smoothly.
Building a Resilient Workplace
Well-prepared staff can make the workplace more resilient when emergencies occur in the future. This means being able to recover quicker and return to normal operations after an event. By participating in training and staying updated on applicable emergency procedures, we create a culture of readiness. Engaged and prepared employees can take the lead in a crisis, support our colleagues and ultimately, those in the communities we serve. Having a proactive attitude makes emergency responses more effective and helps all of us bounce back faster.
Meeting Legal Requirements
Having and following emergency response plans also helps Bethany comply with applicable laws and regulations. By following these rules, we ensure that the facility remains safe and operational for those we serve.
In summary, emergency preparedness is not something to take lightly, it is essential for safety, continuity of care, resource protection, resilience, and legal compliance. As employees of Bethany, understanding and practicing these plans is an expectation of all of us. It ensures your safety and the safety and well-being of those in our care. Being prepared means you will act confidently and effectively when it matters most.
To learn more, visit the following resources:
Alberta Government – Emergency Response Planning Kit
CCSA – Element 8: Emergency Response PlanningFor more information, please contact:
Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety
Lesley.Mackinnon@BethanySeniors.com
Or
Site OHS Committee Chair or RepresentativeTelus Health supports employee health and well-being.
Bethany employees have access to a wide range of resources, such as:
- Telus Health Blog
- Webinars and Events
- 24/7 Specialist Counselling
username: bcs
Password: EAP
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: Telus Health One
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