Introduction

This guide is designed to support employers and facility managers in developing and implementing emergency evacuation procedures that effectively address the unique needs of individuals with disabilities. In accordance with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and guidelines from Safe Work Australia, these procedures must be tailored to ensure that all employees are able to evacuate safely during emergencies.

Key considerations

• Legislative compliance:
  Employers must ensure that all emergency evacuation plans comply with relevant Australian WHS legislation and the Disability Discrimination Act 1992. This includes making reasonable adjustments for individuals with disabilities so that they can evacuate safely and with dignity.
• Risk assessment:
  A thorough risk assessment must be conducted to identify potential obstacles within the workplace. This assessment should consider the nature of the disability, the layout of the facility, and any equipment or assistance that may be required during an evacuation.
• Individual consultation:
  It is critical to engage directly with the individual to understand their specific needs. This consultation should form part of an ongoing review process, ensuring that the evacuation plan remains relevant as circumstances or needs change.

Evacuation procedures

• Pre-evacuation planning:
  Develop a comprehensive evacuation plan that includes clearly marked exits, designated safe areas, and roles for designated support personnel. Ensure that all routes and exits are accessible and free of obstacles.
• Training and drills:
  Regular training sessions and evacuation drills should be conducted. These drills must involve individuals with disabilities and their support persons, to identify any issues and to build familiarity with the procedures.
• Communication:
  Use multiple communication formats (e.g., visual, audio, and written) to provide clear instructions during an emergency. Ensure that instructions are delivered in plain language and that any necessary aids (such as assistive listening devices or communication boards) are readily available.
• Assistance during evacuation:
  Assign trained staff or support workers to assist individuals with disabilities during an evacuation. The role of these assistants should be clearly defined, ensuring that their support does not override the autonomy of the individual but rather facilitates a safe and efficient evacuation.

 

Review and updates

Regular reviews of the evacuation procedures must be carried out, particularly after any incident, change in workplace layout, or when there is a change in the individual’s needs. These reviews should incorporate the latest Safe Work Australia guidelines and any updates to Australian WHS legislation.

Implementing these procedures will help ensure that all employees, particularly those with disabilities, are provided with a safe, legally compliant, and effective evacuation process in times of emergency.