NSC: One-third of U.S. workers do not feel prepared for an emergency

Thirty-four percent of workers in the United States do not feel they are well trained in emergency practices, including evacuation, according to the results of a National Safety Council poll. In light of this, NSC is calling on employers to review emergency processes and procedures.

“A disaster can occur at any time, without warning, and workers must be ready to respond,” John Dony, director of the Campbell Institute and director of environmental, health, safety and sustainability at NSC, said in a press release. “Employers are responsible for ensuring not only a safe work environment, but also the proper training so employees return home every day safe and sound.”

To better prepare workers for emergencies, NSC recommends employers:

• Conduct regular fire and tornado drills.
• Provide workplace violence education and training, including how to handle an active shooter situation.
• Communicate impending risks, including inclement weather.
• Offer first aid and CPR training to employees.