9.1     Earthquake Plan

As with a fire, it is impossible to determine the type and extent of the damage the building would receive. The intent of these guidelines is to offer a preconceived plan of action and to act as a tool for the education of workers.

Earthquakes vary in duration, intensity and pattern and can be very destructive. Please read and consider these guidelines as you go about your job.

If you are inside the building:

1. Stay calm, drop, cover and hold on.
2. Do not attempt to exit the building while the shaking is occurring.
3. Get to a position of safety; i.e. away from objects that can fall on you and hurt you, away from edges of the slabs or floor openings. Sit in an inside corner or other structurally sound point and keep out from under any temporary forms or structures. Do not hesitate, move at once.
4. Do not leave your position of safety until the shaking stops. If you have no position of safety, do what you can to protect yourself. Get down in a forward position and hold your hands over your head clasped together to protect your neck, and keep your hard hat on.
5. After the shaking has stopped, move to the emergency assembly area shown on the site plan and report your name and any injuries. If you are hurt and unable to move, remain calm to conserve energy and call out for help. Rescue teams will be organized to search for the injured. If on the way to the assembly area you find an injured worker, report the location ASAP. Do not move an injured worker as you can complicate injuries. Move the worker only in life-threatening situations. Minimize back and neck movement.
6. Be aware of aftershocks, as you may have to repeat the above.
7. Greatest dangers:
   • Falling Objects
   • Swinging doors and broken windows
   • Fires
   • Electrical Hazards

If you are outdoors:

1. If possible, move to an open area.
2. Assume a position of safety and keep low.
3. Keep out of harm’s way i.e. away from stored materials, trees, mobile equipment, gas or chemical storage, motor vehicles, crew and office trailers or any other objects that can fall on you.
4. After the shaking has stopped, move to the emergency assembly area and report in with your name and any injuries. If you are hurt and unable to move, remain calm to conserve energy and call out for help. As mentioned before, do not move an injured worker. Get help.
5. Be prepared for aftershocks.

After the earthquake has ended:

The Site Superintendent or his / her designate will ensure:

• Triage and first aid of injured workers has started.
• A head count be conducted listing the last known location of any missing workers.
• Rescue teams be formed to assist the injured and to search for any missing workers.
• If necessary, hazardous utilities, gas / electricity be located and shut off.

No worker is to leave the site without authorization by the Site Superintendent.