Flooding in the PNW: Why Emergency Preparedness Matters More Than Ever

The Pacific Northwest is currently experiencing significant flooding, underscoring the urgent need for robust emergency preparedness in every workplace. Natural disasters—whether earthquakes, wildfires, or floods—are becoming more frequent and severe. For employers, the question is not if, but when, an emergency will disrupt operations. Is your organization prepared to protect its people and continue critical functions in the event of a disaster?  

What Constitutes a Workplace Emergency? 

A workplace emergency is any event, natural or human-caused, that threatens employees, disrupts operations, or causes physical/environmental damage. Flooding, in particular, can quickly render roads impassable, damage infrastructure, and leave employees stranded at work or unable to reach their homes or offices. The key to minimizing harm is proactive planning and clear communication.  

Core Elements of Emergency Preparedness 

1. Emergency Action Plans 
   
   Every employer is required to have a written Emergency Action Plan that is specific to their particular risks and worksite. This isn't merely best practice—federal and state regulations mandate it. Plans should include: 
   
   
   • All Emergency Risks—This includes things like earthquakes, fires, chemical spills, disease outbreaks, and extreme weather. Employers who are at risk of flooding must identify flood risks, evacuation routes, and shelter-in-place procedures. Protocols for when employees are unable to evacuate due to road closures or unsafe conditions should also be included. 
     
     
   • Evacuation Plans—Clearly mark exit routes and assembly points. Practice area evacuations and ensure all employees are aware of the procedures to follow if evacuation is not possible. 
     
     
   • Critical Operations—Detail emergency shutdown procedures for equipment and utilities, and train designated staff accordingly. 
     
     
   • Communication—Establish how you will notify employees of emergencies, status updates, and when it is safe to return. 
     
     
   • Accounting for Personnel—Have a system to account for all employees after evacuation or shelter-in-place orders. 
     
     
   • Supplies—Stock emergency kits with food, water, first aid, and other essentials in case employees are unable to leave the workplace for an extended period. Encourage employees also to create personal kits to keep in their vehicles, if possible.  
     
     
   • Support for Impacted Employees—Outline procedures for employees who are flooded, cannot get home, or cannot get to work. Consider remote work options, leave policies, and access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs).  
     
     
2. Training and Drills 
   
   Regular training ensures employees know how to respond in an emergency. Train all staff on the Emergency Action Plan upon hire, whenever plans are updated, and when roles are changed. Conduct annual or bi-annual drills, including evacuation and shelter-in-place exercises. Use these drills to identify and address gaps in your preparedness. 
   
   
3. Special Considerations for Flooding
   
   
   • Shelter-in-Place—If evacuation is unsafe, have designated shelter areas and supplies for extended stays. 
     
     
   • Transportation Challenges—Have a plan for employees who rely on public transit or who may be stranded. Encourage staff to notify their supervisors if they are unable to travel safely.
     
     
   • Remote Work and Business Continuity—Prepare for scenarios where employees cannot reach the workplace. Ensure technology and policies support remote work where feasible. 
     
     
   • Support and Communication—Provide clear guidance and emotional support for employees affected by flooding. Employee Assistance Programs can offer counseling and resources after an event. 

Additional Considerations 

Being prepared is about going beyond the minimum requirements. Employers should regularly review and update their workplace's plans, especially after significant events or regulatory changes. Engage your safety or emergency planning committee, and leverage available resources—such as templates, checklists, and expert consultations to strengthen your workplace's preparedness. To better prepare the workplace, employers should also: 

• Posted evacuation maps throughout the workplace
   
• Address special plan provisions for employees with disabilities or unique needs  
  
  
• Regularly test alarm and communication systems and emergency equipment 
  
  
• Ensure procedures for accounting for all employees after evacuation are current and effective 
  
  
• Encourage employees to create Home Emergency Action Plans and emergency kits

Prepare Now

If your workplace is like many others, your organization may not be as ready as you would like. Employers are encouraged to meet with their emergency planning committee or safety committee to review and update their emergency plans now.  

Eligible Archbright members can access several emergency planning tools in the mozzo Resource Library, including Emergency Action Plan Quickstart Guides, Emergency Action Plan Workplace and Home Office Templates, and an Emergency Preparedness Vulnerability Analysis Tool. Eligible employers can also contact the Safety Hotline or utilize mozzo chat to speak with a Safety Consultant for additional support.   

As we've witnessed over the last few years, the only constant is change. The question is, will your workplace be ready for what's next?