It’s important to be prepared. This doesn’t just mean being prepared for that presentation at the seminar, or having those reports completed on time for the boss. This means being prepared for a real emergency while at work.
An emergency kit is a valuable item to keep at the office in case of a natural or man-made disaster. No one ever expects a disaster to happen, but there is still a chance that it could happen. This kit should have all of the necessary items to keep workers safe and comfortable for at least three days. If a disaster should occur, the office should be ready for survival until rescuers arrive.
Having an emergency kit at the office isn’t always first on everyone’s mind, but it should be. Most people spend a lot more time at the office than they do at home, and being ready for anything is the key. Once that emergency kit has been put together, it should be placed in an accessible area so that everyone can get it no matter what the disaster may be. The kit should also be a watertight and/or waterproof container that can protect everything that is inside. This container could be something as simple as one of those large plastic garbage cans that come with a lid. Even a duffel bag would work provided it can be sealed shut.
To determine what belongs inside the kit will require a count of how many people are in the office that will depend on the kit. Be sure not to cut things too closely when counting. It’s better to have more than you need than not enough. Everyone needs to be covered. The kit should have plenty of blankets and bedding. Food and water is an absolute must and non-perishables should be stocked generously. First aid supplies should be in abundance since during a disaster there could very well be a need for first aid and preventing infection from injuries and cuts. Even basic medicines such as pain relievers and cough medicines should be in the kit. Unfortunately it isn’t possible to stock up on the office workers’ prescription medications since they are regulated.
Hygiene supplies such as soap is a great necessity. Also, having extra clothing is a must. Depending on how severe the disaster has been, it could even be dangerous to wear the same clothes for a few days. It’s also good for morale to be able to change into something clean each day.
A basic tool box with essential tools should be included. Emergency equipment such as a fire extinguisher and even a power drill needs to be a part of the kit. Flashlights and enough of batteries should be a big part of the kit. Depending on the size of the office there could be a great need for several emergency kits placed in several key locations.
A kit or kits with all of these supplies will be costly, but if a disaster should strike, it will be worth every dollar that is spent.