A Calgary Businesses Guide for Creating an Emergency Response Plan

Summary

Emergencies are unpredictable, but the way you respond to them doesn’t have to be. Whether it’s a fire, flood, chemical spill, or even a major equipment failure, having a solid emergency response plan (ERP) in place is key to protecting your people, your property, and your business.

If you’re a business owner in Calgary, you’ve probably heard about the importance of an ERP, but let’s be real—how many of us actually know where to start? Don’t sweat it. In this blog, we’ll break down the steps to creating an emergency response plan in simple, practical terms. And, of course, Calgary Safety Consultants is here to help every step of the way.

What Is an Emergency Response Plan (ERP)?

An ERP is like your business’s “What if?” manual. It’s a detailed guide that lays out how to respond to emergencies quickly and effectively. A good ERP will help you:

  • Minimize injuries and damage
  • Reduce downtime and financial losses
  • Ensure everyone knows their role in a crisis

And let’s not forget—it’s also required under Alberta OH&S laws for many businesses.


Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your ERP

1. Identify Potential Emergencies

What kind of emergencies could affect your business? It depends on your industry, location, and operations. For Calgary businesses, this could include:

  • Fires and explosions
  • Flooding (hello, Calgary’s unpredictable weather!)
  • Hazardous material spills
  • Power outages
  • Workplace violence

List all the risks specific to your business and prioritize them based on likelihood and impact.

2. Define Roles and Responsibilities

During an emergency, everyone needs to know what to do. Assign clear roles, such as:

  • Emergency Coordinator: Leads the response and makes decisions.
  • Evacuation Leader: Ensures everyone evacuates safely.
  • First Aid Responders: Provide medical assistance.

Make sure each person understands their responsibilities and receives proper training.

3. Develop Emergency Procedures

For each type of emergency, outline step-by-step procedures, including:

  • How to report the emergency
  • Evacuation routes and assembly points
  • How to shut down critical equipment or operations
  • Communication protocols (Who do you call? How do you notify staff?)

Keep it simple—during an emergency, no one has time to read a novel.

4. Stock Up on Emergency Supplies

Your workplace should be equipped with:

  • Fire extinguishers
  • First aid kits
  • Spill containment kits (for hazardous materials)
  • Emergency lighting
  • Backup power (if applicable)

Regularly check and restock these supplies to ensure they’re ready when needed.

5. Train Your Team

Even the best plan is useless if your team doesn’t know how to follow it. Schedule regular training sessions to:

  • Review the ERP
  • Practice evacuation drills
  • Train staff on using emergency equipment

The more familiar your team is with the plan, the better they’ll respond when it matters most.

6. Test and Update the Plan

Run mock drills to test your ERP and identify any gaps. After each drill, debrief with your team and make updates as needed. Remember, your plan should evolve as your business grows or changes.

How Calgary Safety Consultants Can Help

Creating an emergency response plan might sound daunting, but that’s why we’re here. At Calgary Safety Consultants, we specialize in helping Calgary businesses prepare for the unexpected. Here’s how we can make it easier:

  1. Risk Assessments: We’ll help you identify potential emergencies specific to your business.
  2. Custom ERPs: We’ll work with you to create a detailed, practical emergency response plan tailored to your needs.
  3. Training Programs: From evacuation drills to first aid training, we’ll ensure your team is ready to respond confidently.
  4. Plan Audits: Already have an ERP? We’ll review it to make sure it’s up-to-date and compliant with Alberta’s OH&S laws.
  5. Ongoing Support: As your business grows, we’ll help you adapt your plan to new risks and regulations.

With our help, you can stop worrying about the “what ifs” and focus on running your business.

Why an ERP Is a Must-Have for Calgary Businesses

Emergencies don’t wait for you to be ready—they just happen. By investing in a solid emergency response plan, you’re not just complying with the law—you’re protecting your employees, your customers, and everything you’ve worked hard to build.

And remember, you don’t have to do it alone. Visit calgarysafetyconsultants.ca or give us a call, and let’s work together to make sure your business is prepared for whatever comes its way.


References:

  • Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Act (link)
  • Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety: Emergency Preparedness (link)
  • Government of Alberta: Emergency Response Planning (link)

Because preparation today means safety tomorrow. Contact Calgary Safety Consultants  and take the first step toward developing your ERP. Book your complimentary consultation today.

FAQs About Emergency Response Planning!

Key components include identifying potential emergencies, assigning roles, outlining response procedures, stocking emergency supplies, and providing team training.

ERPs should be reviewed and updated regularly, especially after mock drills or changes in business operations.

An ERP ensures compliance with Alberta OH&S laws, protects employees, and reduces financial losses during emergencies.

Secure Your Workplace Safety Today

Calgary Safety Consultants is here to help you ensure compliance, enhance safety, and streamline your OH&S program. Don’t wait—fill out the form, and we’ll connect with you to discuss how we can support your business. Let’s get started!