Building Explosion

Explosions can collapse buildings and cause fires. People who work in a multi-level building can do the following:

Review emergency evacuation procedures. Know where all emergency exits are located. Insure that stairwells have working emergency lighting.
Keep fire extinguishers in working order, know where they are located, and learn how to use them.
Learn first aid. Contact the local chapter of the American Red Cross for information and training.
Building owners should keep the following items in a designated place on each floor of the building.

Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries
Several flashlights and extra batteries
First aid kit and manual
Several hard hats
Tools to clear blockages to exits
Fluorescent tape to rope off dangerous areas

Employees should be trained to follow the procedures in the checklist that calls for the immediate evacuation of the building (See Checklist 1). Procedures should be in place to implement (1) an immediate warning of all personnel, (2) notification of local emergency officials and (3) verification of evacuation and safety of all employees.

Building System Failure or Collapse See Emergency Evacuation Procedures (Checklist 1 in Appendix in the Guidebook or on the checklists page of this site)