Emergencies come in many forms, from natural disasters and extended power outages to chemical spills and combustible dust explosions. Even small occurrences like a minor cut that just needs a bandage or a fire in a dumpster are hazards that need to be prepared for.
OSHA requires employers to evaluate their workplace for hazards (29 CFR 1910.1200). Plans, procedures, engineering controls and personal protective equipment (PPE) are then often used to help prevent those hazards from affecting workers’ health and safety. Emergencies such as natural disasters and chemical spills are forms of workplace hazards, and the need for planning, employee training and drills can be linked to more than one OSHA regulation.