ASSE provides workplace crisis response checklist

October 30, 2002—The American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) has developed a checklist for employers on how to increase workplace safety and security during a time of crisis.

The following checklist may provide guidance for preparing a safe and secure working environment during a crisis, such as the recent sniper attack. In addition to communicating to your employees that their safety and security is a top priority, employers should consider:

1. reassuring employees that safety measures are being taken for their protection;
2. reporting unusual or suspicious activity or strangers in or near facility areas to the authorities by calling 911 if the situation warrants immediate attention;
3. urging employees and their families to avoid lingering outdoors, to be aware of their surroundings;
4. moving outdoor activities indoors;
5. increasing security and surveillance activities and outdoor lighting, and checking IDs of those entering the building;
6. updating and reviewing with employees the company emergency response plan (this should be done on a regular basis); update response action and ensure that all current local, state and federal emergency service numbers, as well as updated employee emergency contact information, is readily available;
7. upgrading the in-house emergency services (EMS) capability to 40-hour First Responder or Emergency Medical Technician-B;
8. offering employees escorts through parking lots, to public transportation, etc.;
9. engaging an employee assistance provider (EAP) to council employees and their families on any stress, anxiety, fear and/or depression;
10. sharing your Emergency Response Plan with local businesses and municipalities to help coordinate incident relief efforts should one occur;
11. communicating with employees about current events (i.e., make CNN, CNBC, FOX, or other round-the-clock news information networks and radio stations available for them to watch on breaks); and
12. cooperating fully with the authorities.

ASSE members who are occupational safety, health and environmental professionals developed this checklist. For more information, contact ASSE.