An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the ground caused by the breaking or shifting of rock beneath the surface of the Earth. The shaking can be dangerous because of the hazards it can create such as falling buildings, broken gas lines, landslides, and many more.
In the workplace, the Occupational Health & Safety Administration recommends training for earthquakes twice a year.
How can I prepare for earthquakes?
- Find and pick "safe places". Any place that covers your body and is away from objects that could fall are consider safe.
- Practice "drop, cover, and hold-on".
- Wait until shaking stops. Asses yourself for injury before moving to help others.
- Look for fires or any other hazards created by the shaking.
- If leaving a building use the stairs and not the elevator.
- If you are outside, stay outside.
- Discuss potential dangers in your workplace.