There are many types of emergencies that can be faced when you are in business. One of the most common emergency in the workplace is fire. In order to protect your business, employees and customers, it is essential to follow these tips:

• Identify two exits from your business and making sure they are clearly marked. Be certain everyone on the premises is aware of the exits.
• Make certain your address is clearly posted on the building and can be seen from the street.
• Storage should be kept at least 30 inches from electrical panels. All combustible storage should be kept at least 24 inches from the ceiling in areas where there are no sprinklers.
• Check emergency lighting at least once per month by turning off the breakers to overhead lighting.
• Service your fire protection system on an annual basis. Be sure you have at least a 2A-10BC rated fire extinguisher mounted and accessible within 75 feet of all points of your building. In addition, you should make certain that all levels of the building have a separate fire extinguisher.

Along with fire safety, you should also be prepared for other types of disasters, such as tornadoes, hurricanes and other natural disasters:

• Begin by determining the essential equipment or machinery is needed for your business to remain open.
• Identify escape routes from your business. Also, establish meeting places and notify employees of those places. Designate a contact person who will be able to communicate with others.
• Review your insurance coverage at least annually. Consider whether business interruption insurance is appropriate for you. This insurance will cover utilities and other operating expenses as well as compensate for the loss of income following a temporary closure.
• Be sure you have back-up copies of all records that are stored at a minimum 100 miles away from your business location. Make certain you have current telephone numbers for all employees along with all customers, suppliers, local media and emergency agencies as part of your post-disaster communications strategy.

Although it may not be possible to completely plan for a disaster, following these tips can help you to function as well as possible in the event of an emergency.