Construction sites must be prepared to respond quickly when emergencies occur. Whether the emergency involves severe weather, a medical incident, fire, utility failure, or another unexpected event, having the proper emergency supplies readily available can reduce injuries, improve response times, and protect workers until emergency services arrive. Emergency supplies should be appropriate for the work being performed, inspected regularly, and accessible to all workers.
This toolbox talk reviews the essential emergency supplies that should be available on a jobsite and the responsibilities of workers and supervisors for maintaining emergency readiness.
Why This Matters
- Emergency supplies support a rapid response to workplace incidents.
- Properly stocked equipment helps reduce the severity of injuries.
- Accessible emergency supplies improve worker preparedness.
- Routine inspections help ensure emergency equipment functions when needed.
- Prepared jobsites recover more effectively from emergencies and disasters.
Common Emergency Supplies
- Fully stocked first aid kits appropriate for the workforce and jobsite hazards.
- Fire extinguishers suitable for anticipated fire hazards.
- Automated external defibrillators (AEDs), where provided.
- Eyewash stations and emergency showers where required.
- Emergency lighting, flashlights, and spare batteries.
- Emergency communication devices such as radios or charged mobile phones.
- Drinking water and other emergency supplies appropriate for the jobsite.
- Emergency contact information and copies of the emergency action plan.
Safety Checklist
Before Work Begins
- Know the location of all emergency supplies and equipment.
- Inspect emergency equipment to ensure it is complete, accessible, and in serviceable condition.
- Verify first aid kits are adequately stocked and supplies have not expired.
- Ensure fire extinguishers are inspected, accessible, and appropriate for the hazards present.
- Confirm emergency communication devices are operational.
- Review emergency procedures and responsibilities during the pre-job briefing.
During the Workday
- Keep emergency equipment unobstructed and easy to access.
- Report missing, damaged, or depleted emergency supplies immediately.
- Replace used first aid or emergency supplies as soon as practical.
- Protect emergency equipment from damage, weather, and unauthorized use.
- Follow the site's emergency action plan during incidents.
- Notify your supervisor if additional emergency supplies are needed because of changing work conditions.
Crew Talking Points
- Where are the nearest first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and emergency equipment located?
- Who is responsible for inspecting and restocking emergency supplies?
- What emergency equipment is required for today's work activities?
- How should workers report missing or damaged emergency supplies?
- Are emergency communication devices readily available and operational?
- Speak up immediately if emergency equipment is missing, blocked, damaged, or unavailable.
Stop Work If
- Required emergency equipment is missing or inaccessible.
- Emergency exits, evacuation routes, or emergency equipment are blocked.
- First aid supplies or emergency response equipment are inadequate for the work being performed.
- Emergency communication systems are unavailable during high-risk work.
- An emergency occurs and required response equipment is not available.
- You are unsure how to respond safely because emergency resources are unavailable.
Final Reminder
Emergency supplies are essential for protecting workers when unexpected events occur. Know where emergency equipment is located, inspect it regularly, keep it accessible, and report any deficiencies immediately. Being prepared before an emergency happens helps save valuable time and can reduce the severity of injuries while protecting everyone on the jobsite.
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