Emergencies in the workplace—ranging from fires and chemical spills to severe weather and active threats—can happen without warning. In these moments, confusion or lack of preparation can make a dangerous situation worse. That’s why OSHA mandates that many employers develop and implement a formal Emergency Action Plan (EAP).
Whether you operate a small facility or a large warehouse in Philadelphia, PA, an effective OSHA emergency action plan is critical for protecting employees and minimizing damage when disaster strikes. At Compsolve, we help businesses create, implement, and train for emergency scenarios with compliance and safety in mind.
What Is an OSHA Emergency Action Plan?
An OSHA Emergency Action Plan is a written document that outlines how employees should respond to various workplace emergencies. OSHA’s standard for EAPs is found under 29 CFR 1910.38, which requires employers to develop an EAP if their workplace is subject to specific safety standards, such as fire extinguishers, hazardous materials, or evacuation protocols.
The plan must be tailored to the specific conditions of your work environment, including layout, number of employees, and types of potential hazards.
Key Components of an Effective OSHA Emergency Action Plan
An EAP should include the following elements to meet OSHA’s compliance requirements:
1. Emergency Evacuation Procedures
- Clearly marked exit routes
- Assembly points
- Protocols for assisting individuals with disabilities
2. Reporting Procedures
- How to report fires, chemical spills, or medical emergencies
- Use of internal alert systems or alarm codes
3. Roles and Responsibilities
- Designating evacuation wardens and safety coordinators
- Assigning individuals to shut down critical operations (if safe to do so)
4. Emergency Contact Information
- Local emergency services
- Company leadership and safety personnel
5. Alarm and Notification Systems
- Testing and maintenance of audible alarms
- Protocols for notifying employees and visitors
6. Training and Drills
- Conducting regular fire and evacuation drills
- Training new hires during onboarding
- Keeping refresher training annual and up to date
Why Your Philadelphia Workplace Needs an OSHA Emergency Action Plan
In a city like Philadelphia, PA, where businesses range from corporate offices to industrial plants and biotech labs, having a site-specific EAP is essential. Local building codes, population density, and access to emergency services can all influence how your EAP should be structured.
Employers without a compliant EAP may face OSHA fines, legal liability, and even civil lawsuits if employees are injured during an avoidable or poorly managed emergency.
Common Mistakes Employers Make with EAPs
❌ Outdated or Generic Plans – Using one-size-fits-all templates without customizing for your facility.
❌ Lack of Employee Training – Employees are unaware of the plan or don’t know their role.
❌ No Documentation – Failure to document drills, updates, and training can result in noncompliance.
❌ Missing ADA Considerations – Not accounting for employees with disabilities or special needs.
How Compsolve Can Help
At Compsolve, we work with businesses across Philadelphia and beyond to design, implement, and train staff on effective OSHA emergency action plans. Our services include:
✅ Custom EAP Development – Built specifically for your industry, facility layout, and workforce.
✅ Evacuation Mapping – Clear, visual floorplans showing primary and secondary routes.
✅ Employee Training & Drills – Engaging sessions that prepare teams for real-world emergencies.
✅ EAP Audits & Compliance Checks – We review and update your plan annually to maintain compliance.
✅ Full Documentation Support – We help you track drills, updates, and training participation for OSHA audits.
Final Thoughts
Emergencies can’t be predicted—but they can be planned for. Having a well-structured, OSHA-compliant emergency action plan isn’t just a requirement—it’s a responsibility. Protect your employees, reduce risk, and gain peace of mind knowing you’re ready for anything.
Contact Compsolve today to develop your customized OSHA emergency action plan and ensure your workplace in Philadelphia, PA, is fully prepared and protected.