How to assess emergency resources

A reliable alarm system is essential, including audible alarms, telephone systems, and early automatic monitoring. Regardless of the alarm method used, the team must assess the effectiveness of the system and consider upgrading it if needed. In case of potential failure or overload, a backup system should be in place to ensure continuity of operations.

Emergency communication equipment plays a crucial role in ensuring effective coordination during crises. Emergency personnel must guarantee that such equipment is available, functional, and ready for use when regular communication systems fail.

In large and medium-sized enterprises, the planning team should establish clear regulations for emergency command centers early on, ensuring all emergency responses are directed through this central hub for efficient management.

Evaluating existing resources—such as manpower, equipment, and supplies—is a critical step. This includes determining the following:

(1) Medical services, facilities, and supplies: 1) How many ambulances are available? 2) What is the number of doctors and nurses? 3) Where are local hospitals and other medical institutions located? 4) What is the condition and availability of their medical equipment?

(2) Monitoring systems: 5) What types of monitoring and inspection systems are in place? 6) Can chemical laboratories conduct hazardous substance analysis? 7) Is there access to technical reference materials or databases?

(3) Weather stations: 1) How many weather stations, especially those monitoring wind direction, are available? 2) Where are these stations located?

(4) Transportation systems: 1) What transportation equipment, such as trucks, is available for emergency supply and evacuation? 2) How many vehicles can be used for evacuating people?

(5) Security and access control: 1) Is there enough police force to manage traffic and enforce evacuations? 2) Are there sufficient barriers or roadblocks to control traffic in an emergency?

(6) Social service agencies and facilities: 1) How many shelters are available for evacuees? 2) What kind of supplies, like blankets and housing, are on hand?

(7) Manpower: 1) How many full-time, part-time, or volunteer staff can be mobilized quickly? 2) What level of training do they have?

(8) Notification and communication devices: 1) What types of communication tools are available (e.g., telephones, radios, sirens)?

(9) Personal protective equipment: Where and what types of PPE, such as breathing apparatus, gas masks, and acid-resistant suits, are stored?

(10) Firefighting equipment and supplies: 1) Is there an alternative water source for firefighting? 2) What kinds and quantities of fire extinguishing equipment are available (e.g., portable extinguishers, foam tanks, agents)? 3) What types of fire-fighting tools, such as fire trucks, ladders, and hydraulic cranes, are on site? 4) Is there a dedicated fire water system in place?

(11) Accident control and pollution prevention equipment: 1) What special tools and equipment are available for handling accidents? 2) How many earth-moving machines are accessible? 3) What anti-pollution equipment and agents, like neutralizers, are available?

During emergencies, various types of equipment are essential for protection and rescue efforts. The most commonly used ones include:

(1) Personal protective equipment; (2) Medical equipment; (3) Meteorological equipment; (4) Backup power and lighting systems; (5) Specialized tools for hazardous situations; (6) Detection devices for toxic substances; (7) Software and hardware for predicting chemical spread; (8) Traffic and training equipment; (9) Fire suppression systems; (10) Fire water supply systems; (11) Fire detection systems; (12) Firefighting equipment; (13) Equipment for controlling poison leaks.