Ideally, how many fully trained emergency wardens should be present in a workplace employing 100 workers?
A. 5
B. 10
C. 15
D. 20
The correct answer and explanation is :
Correct Answer: B. 10
Explanation:
The ideal number of fully trained emergency wardens in a workplace depends on several factors, including the number of employees, the size and layout of the facility, the types of hazards present, and the applicable occupational health and safety regulations. However, a general safety guideline followed in many industries and jurisdictions recommends one emergency warden per 10 workers. Therefore, in a workplace employing 100 workers, 10 fully trained emergency wardens should be present, making option B the correct answer.
Emergency wardens play a critical role in managing workplace emergencies such as fires, chemical spills, evacuations, or natural disasters. Their primary duties include:
- Coordinating evacuation procedures during an emergency.
- Assisting people with disabilities or those needing help.
- Ensuring all workers have exited the building safely.
- Communicating with emergency services and relaying information.
- Performing roll calls at assembly points.
Having enough trained emergency wardens ensures that during an emergency, each area or department of the workplace is covered. This distribution allows wardens to manage the flow of people, prevent panic, and respond swiftly to unfolding situations. A 1:10 ratio also helps account for absences (e.g., wardens on leave or off-shift), ensuring that enough wardens are still available when needed.
Moreover, regulatory agencies such as OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration in the U.S.) or similar bodies in other countries often provide or endorse best practices suggesting this ratio. Some companies even exceed this minimum to further enhance safety preparedness.
In conclusion, for a workforce of 100 employees, having 10 trained emergency wardens helps ensure adequate coverage and safety for all personnel in emergency situations. This staffing ratio supports a structured, timely, and effective response that can potentially save lives and reduce injuries.