OSHA to employers: Be ready for tornadoes

Washington — With the spring tornado season ramping up, OSHA is calling on employers to develop an emergency plan, learn the warning signs, and monitor tornado watches and warnings.
“Tornadoes can occur with little or no warning,” the agency states on its Tornado Preparedness and Response webpage. “Taking precautions in advance of the storms … can help you stay safe if a tornado occurs in your area.”
In one section on preparedness, OSHA offers advice on planning, equipping, and training and exercises. An employer’s plan, the agency says, should include details on suitable places to take shelter, policies to ensure all workers are accounted for, and procedures for addressing any onsite hazardous materials.
A section on response/recovery covers potential hazards and general precautions, and includes links to fact sheets and quick cards.
Need Spanish-language materials? A checklist on tornado safety is available.
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