Solidifying an emergency plan can take the emergency out of a power outage and reduce it to an annoyance.
There are many situations that could create a power outage in your building including extreme weather, a damaged power line, or worn-out equipment. The effects of these situations are not limited to any kind of structure, power outage accommodations need to be considered for every type of building.
Make sure that everyone in your building understands the emergency plans and evacuation procedures. When emergencies happen without plans in place, it can result in a major headache from people scrambling to find out what to do next.
Generators
Generators are available in differing sizes and power capacities, making them a suitable option for facilities of all sizes.
Typically, commercial buildings will already have an emergency backup generator. However, it is important to ensure that fuel onsite is sufficiently stocked.
Generators do not require much maintenance. Performing oil and filter changes can increase the generator’s lifespan and improve its functionality. Depending on the specific generator, it may not even need those small steps to maintain it—generators can use large battery backups or solar panels instead of gasoline or natural gas, effectively creating a situation that you virtually never have to think about.
Emergency Lighting
Your building should be equipped with emergency lighting that will turn on once power is lost. Prepare ahead of time by installing emergency lights and signs that comply with your local codes.
Emergency lights and signs need to have their own power in order to be able to guide your building’s occupants through an evacuation route when there is no power. Typically, these signs are battery-powered. Batteries should be replaced every six months to ensure that they will be ready for use when needed.
Communication
Make sure that everyone who occupies your building knows who to call in the event of an emergency. When the internet is down, and power is lost, an easily accessible cellphone number should be available to anyone in your building.
If your building’s power goes out due to extreme weather, such as a hurricane or tornado, you will want to locate a battery-powered radio or television to monitor broadcasts. Keep batteries on hand to ensure your equipment lasts through the duration of the storm.
HVAC Systems
When the lights go out, turn off your HVAC systems at the circuit breaker or the equipment itself. This is to prevent damage that could result from a power surge when the power is restored.
Emergency Supplies
Flashlights, first-aid kits, and spare batteries are always recommended emergency supplies to keep in your facility.
Electronics
Speak with your IT specialist to determine the best way to protect your files when the power is down. You will want computers connected to battery backup systems that will allow the computer to remain on for several additional minutes after the power goes out. This will prevent major files and data to be lost.
Surge protectors should be connected to your other electronics such as printers, copiers, etc. Without surge protectors, power restoration can easily destroy your sensitive electronics.
Protection
Power outages during the height of the summer or winter can create immediate risks for the people in your building. Depending on where you are located, you could consider adding blankets to your emergency supply stock.
Keeping portable heaters and fans in your building in case of an emergency will keep your building occupants safe throughout the duration of the power outage. Exposure to heat and cold can result in serious injuries that should not be risked.
When everyone is prepared for an emergency, it helps to take the panic and anxiety out of the situation. Maintain an up-to-date plan for evacuations, power outages, and any other emergency situation that your building should be prepared for.
Maintain records of your equipment inspections to ensure that the working condition of the building’s lights, systems, etc. can be verified.
The time to get prepared for a power outage or weather-related emergency is before occurs.
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