Precautionary Evacuation Guidelines at Workplaces during the Emergency and Exceptional Situation

Workplace safety guidelines

Objective

This manual aims to raise awareness among employees and staff in government and semi-government entities, as well as private sector institutions, about the procedures to be followed when a precautionary evacuation alert is issued. This manual contributes to safeguarding everyone’s safety and ensuring a prompt response in accordance with the instructions issued by the competent authorities and the safety officers within the Establishment.

First: Preventive Readiness (Before any Emergency Happens)

1- Be familiar in advance with emergency exits and evacuation routes at the workplace.
2- Know the designated assembly point outside the building.
3- Ensure that emergency corridors and evacuation exits remain clear of any obstacles.
4- Take note of the locations of safety equipment and fire extinguishers at your workplace.
5- Adhere to the safety instructions and guidelines approved by the establishment.

Second: When an Evacuation Alert is Issued

1- Stop work immediately and remain calm.
2- Follow the instructions issued through National Alert System, or alert messages, or safety officers.
3- Leave the location immediately using the designated evacuation routes.
4- Do not delay evacuation to collect personal belongings.
5- Assist colleagues or visitors, especially the elderly and people with disabilities.

Third: During the Evacuation Process

1- Proceed directly to the nearest emergency exit according to the directional signs.
2- Use the stairs only, and do not use elevators during emergencies.
3- Move calmly without running or pushing.
4- If there is smoke, you should move at a low level, where the air is purer.
5- Follow the instructions of safety officers or emergency teams on site.

Fourth: Upon Reaching the Assembly Point

1- Proceed directly to the designated assembly point outside the building.
2- Remain at your location temporarily to complete the headcount and ensure everyone’s safety, unless otherwise instructed by competent authorities or safety officers.
3- Immediately inform socials if it is suspected about someone still remaining inside the building.
4- If leaving the site is not possible due to a lack of transportation, the site's security and safety personnel must be notified to make appropriate arrangements.

Fifth: If Evacuation is not Possible

1- Move to the nearest safe location inside the building, away from the source of danger.
2- Close doors, if possible, to reduce the spread of smoke or other hazards.
3- Contact the relevant authorities or the designated emergency number to inform them of your location.
4- Wait for instructions from emergency teams and do not attempt to leave through unsafe routes.

Sixth:  Immediate Danger Occurs During Evacuation

1- Stop evacuation if the path becomes unsafe.
2- Proceed immediately to the nearest safe shelter inside the building or in its vicinity.
3- Stay away from glass facades and exposed areas as much as possible.
4- Follow instructions from the competent authorities or safety officers until guidance is given to resume evacuation or the danger is declared over.

Conclusion: Safety is a Shared Responsibility.

Your action with calmness, cooperation with concerned departments, compliance with issued instructions, and giving priority for the protection of lives contribute to the protection of your and your colleagues' lives. Be a role model in awareness and preparedness, as the safety culture with awareness is the first line of the protection.