Commercial Emergency Preparedness

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Crew of workers being briefed on a project

If you or someone you know works in a large commercial building, you may benefit from preparing a workplace emergency preparedness kit! SERVPRO of Northwest Portland is passionate about preparedness, and as we operate out of a large commercial space, we know how beneficial a kit could be in the event of an emergency.

As you’re building a kit, whether it’s generally applicable and stored in a shared office space, or specific to you and kept at your desk - it’s important to choose the right storage material and to keep your kit updated. Using airtight, water-proof bags and containers to store a kit could keep your supplies in working condition. Additionally, consider transportable containers, such as a backpack.

Whether general or specific, consider the following items to include in your kit:

1. A large flashlight and extra batteries.
2. A first aid kit.
3. Surgical masks or dust masks.
4. Water purification tablets.
5. Prepackaged foods. Emergency survival food ration bars are ideal for storage and consumption.
6. Mylar emergency blankets.
7. Bottled water - plan for one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for both drinking and sanitation.
8. An emergency whistle attached to a lanyard.
9. Maps of your local area.
10. Duct tape.
11. Work gloves.
12. Hand warmers.
13. Hand sanitizer and moist towelettes.
14. Plastic garbage bags.
15. Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers.
16. Contact lens solution.
17. Matches.

It’s important to pack supplies for three to seven days. If your commercial workplace ever experiences a large loss, or a disaster, while you are at work, know that making a kit like this could help keep you and your coworkers safe.