What is Emergency Planning and Response? | Blog No. 14

We may want to pretend we'll never have a process safety accident, but the ostrich strategy (sticking your head in the sand) won't do. While the requirements of emergency response and planning found in Title 40 CFR §68.90-96 and Title 29 CFR §1910.119(n) are quite extensive, here is brief summary:

Section 68.90 of the regulation outlines the applicability of the requirements for facilities with Program 2 and Program 3 processes. Facilities are required to comply with certain sections, unless they are considered non-responding facilities. Non-responding facilities are exempt from certain requirements if they meet specific criteria, such as being included in the community emergency response plan and coordinating response actions with the local fire department.

Section 68.93 focuses on emergency response coordination activities. It requires the facility to coordinate response needs with local emergency planning and response organizations. This includes providing necessary information and documentation, as well as conducting coordination activities at least annually. The section also addresses the handling of classified and restricted information.

Section 68.95 outlines the requirements for an emergency response program, which includes developing and implementing an emergency response plan, procedures for the use of emergency response equipment, training for employees, and updating the emergency response plan as needed. The plan must be coordinated with the community emergency response plan.

Section 68.96 details the requirements for emergency response exercises, including notification exercises and emergency response exercise programs. It specifies the frequency and scope of field and tabletop exercises, as well as the documentation and reporting requirements. Alternative means of meeting exercise requirements are also discussed in this section.

If you're looking for help developing or implementing your emergency response program or completing annual coordination activities, submit a request through our contact page.