About the Emergency Planning Committee (EPC)

Introduction

AS3745-2010 requires that an Emergency Planning Committee, or EPC, be established for every workplace.  Depending on the nature of the company, the EPC may be formed either for an individual site or a group of sites.

The EPC is responsible for the development, implementation and maintenance of the site's emergency plan, emergency procedures and training.  These responsibilities may be undertaken in conjunction with specialist service providers.

Membership of the EPC

AS3745-2010 requires that that EPC consist of no less than two members who are representative of the stakeholders in the site.  At least one member of the EPC must be "competent" (ie. a person who has acquired through training, education, qualification, experience, or a combination of these, the knowledge and skill enabling him/her to correctly perform the required task).  In Queensland, this requirement may be met by appointing a Fire Safety Adviser.

EPC Meetings

AS3745-2010 requires the EPC to meet at least annually.  A record of EPC meetings must be maintained.

Responsibilities of the EPC

For a list of responsibilities of the EPC, refer to AS3745-2010 section 2.2.  AS3745-2010 may be purchased from SAI Global.

Access our FREE! resources to assist the EPC in their duties.