To ensure effective emergency response in the workplace, employers must develop and implement a comprehensive emergency response plan. This plan should be in writing and available for inspection by employees, their representatives, and OSHA personnel. Key elements of the plan include:

1. Pre-Emergency Planning and Coordination: Employers should coordinate with outside parties to ensure a cohesive response to emergencies [1].

2. Personnel Roles and Training: Clearly define roles, lines of authority, and communication methods. Employees involved in emergency response must be trained in recognizing health and safety hazards, using personal protective equipment (PPE), and handling emergency incidents [2].

3. Emergency Recognition and Prevention: Employees should be trained to recognize emergency situations and understand the procedures to follow [1].

4. Evacuation Routes and Procedures: Establish clear evacuation routes and procedures, including safe distances and places of refuge [1].

5. Site Security and Control: Implement measures to secure and control the site during an emergency [1].

6. Decontamination and Medical Treatment: Include procedures for decontamination and provide emergency medical treatment and first aid [1].

7. Emergency Alerting and Response Procedures: Ensure there are systems in place for alerting employees and coordinating the response [1].

8. Critique and Follow-Up: After an emergency, conduct a critique of the response and implement follow-up actions to improve future responses [1].

9. Personal Protective Equipment and Emergency Equipment: Ensure the availability and proper use of PPE and emergency equipment [1].

10. Incident Command System (ICS): The senior emergency response official should take charge of the ICS, coordinating all emergency responders and communications [3].

Employers must also ensure that emergency response plans are rehearsed regularly and reviewed periodically to keep them current with any changes in site conditions or information [4].