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includes creating detailed evacuation plans that specify designated routes, exit points, shelterin-place areas and assembly zones, and strategies for managing the flow of vehicles and pedestrians to prevent congestion and reduce the risk of accidents.

Include protocols to address special considerations for high-risk zones, such as areas near hazardous materials or locations with limited access.

VULNERABLE POPULATIONS

The ERP must incorporate specific strategies to protect vulnerable populations who require additional support during emergencies. This involves planning for accessible evacuation routes, aiding those with mobility impairments, and ensuring that communication methods are inclusive and reach everyone, regardless of language barriers or sensory limitations.

Develop strategies in collaboration with experts and representatives of these groups to address their unique needs. Prioritizing the safety of vulnerable populations is not only a legal and ethical obligation but also strengthens the overall resilience and inclusivity of the emergency response plan.

PROTECTION AND RESTORATION OF CRITICAL FACILITIES AND SYSTEMS

The ERP must outline procedures for protecting and restoring critical facilities and systems that are essential to the site’s operation during and after an emergency. This includes ensuring the integrity of infrastructure such as water, power, communications, and transportation systems. Identify key facilities and systems that must be protected from potential damage and establish strategies to prevent or minimize disruption. This may involve reinforcing physical structures, installing backup power for command centers and essential systems, and ensuring redundancy in communication networks.

Additionally, the ERP must outline protocols for the rapid restoration of services after an emergency, including steps for securing temporary alternatives or repairs and prioritizing the most vital systems to minimize downtime. Safeguarding critical facilities and systems ensures quick recovery and reduces the long-term impact of emergencies on both the building and its occupants.

ONGOING MAINTENANCE

Ongoing maintenance of the ERP is crucial for ensuring that it remains effective and relevant for all personnel. The project team must establish a process for continuous review and updates to keep the plan up to date on addressing identified hazards. Triggers for updates may include the release of new climate data, insights gained from emergency drills, changes in personnel, or

U.S. Green Building Council LEED v5 Reference Guide for Operations and Maintenance, April 2025 Launch Edition 49