Final answer:
A written emergency action and fire prevention plan is usually required by OSHA for businesses with 10 or more employees, aiming to ensure safety and preparedness in emergencies. Other mediums besides written documents may be beneficial for training and comprehension. Detailed plans aid in quick and informed responses, potentially saving lives in crisis situations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Emergency action and fire prevention plans are critical for ensuring the safety and preparedness of an organization in the event of an emergency. According to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, these plans often need to be written, especially when required by specific OSHA standards. For example, OSHA requires a written emergency action plan for businesses with 10 or more employees.
A traditional written document ensures that the procedures are formally documented and can be easily distributed and accessed by all employees. However, employing other mediums like slide decks or video presentations can also be beneficial for training purposes and to increase the visibility and understanding of the procedures within the organization.
The purpose of such directions and detailed preplanning, including the creation of a master plan, is to facilitate quick and informed responses during an emergency. This preparation can be life-saving in situations such as a fire or other critical incidents that could befall a workplace. Clear, easy-to-follow plans are designed not only for compliance but for the very real benefit they provide in reducing risk and potential damages during emergencies.