Are You Prepared for an Earthquake?

Courtesy of JPS E-News--- Published 11, January 2012

Every year thousands of people receive serious injuries as a result of earthquakes.  We cannot prevent an earthquake from occurring but we all can do our best to be prepared if one does happen. This week is recognized as Earthquake Awareness Week under the theme, “Earthquakes can strike anywhere anytime. Be prepared there are no signs.”

The HSSE Department would like to share some earthquake safety tips that will help you to be prepared if an earthquake should strike while you are on the job.

•    Ensure that you are aware of the company’s earthquake evacuation plan. (This plan may be obtained from the HSSE department)

•    If you are indoors, stay put! Ensure that you move quickly to a safe location in the room such as under a strong desk, strong table or along an interior wall. Do not take cover near windows, large mirrors, hanging objects, large appliances or heavy furniture.

•    If there's no sturdy furniture nearby, kneel or sit close to the floor with your hands on the floor for balance, next to a structurally sound interior wall away from windows, shelves, or furniture that could fall.

•    Stay away from doorways as violent motion could cause the doors to slam against your body, crush your fingers or inflict other serious injuries.

•     If you are outdoors, move to an open area where falling objects are unlikely to strike you. Move away from buildings, power lines and trees.

•    If you are driving, slow down and stop on the side of the road. Avoid stopping on or under bridges and overpasses, or under power lines, trees and large signs. Remain in your vehicle.

•    Ensure that you cover the back of your head and your eyes at all times to minimize injury from flying objects.

•    It is always important to remain calm at all times.

•    Always be prepared for aftershocks, which may be stronger than the initial jolt.

•    Do not use elevators during or after an earthquake. The steps are always much safer.

•    If you smell or hear a gas leak, get everyone outside of the building immediately and report it to the safety personnel.

•    Make sure to check for injuries on yourself and your colleagues. Tend to injuries immediately and summon emergency assistance where necessary.

•    Be extremely cautious when opening cabinets, cupboards and closets in case items may have shifted during the quake.

•    Turn off or unplug all damaged appliances.

•    Keep all phone lines clear for emergency use.

Although nothing can stop an earthquake, careful preparation and planning can make a difference when it comes to protecting yourself and your colleagues’ from the effects of an earthquake. Let’s all work towards having a safer 2012 by being prepared.