Earthquake Resource Center

Because earthquakes can occur without warning across a wide range of seismic zones, organizations should ensure employees are trained on site-specific emergency procedures and are able to execute them quickly to protect human safety, limit physical damage and reduce earthquake-related business interruption.

Emergency Procedures

Business owners should build the following procedures, review annually with staff and clearly post them in each building or facility:

• Emergency communication procedure
• Emergency routes and exits out of all facilities
• Meeting locations outside of facilities
• Plans to protect customers or clients, if applicable

Property Protection Tips

Commercial earthquake preparedness tips include practical steps for business owners to take to feel confident their team will be able to recover quickly. Those include:

• Researching, understanding and assessing your area’s earthquake history and risks
• Regularly securing equipment where applicable
• Maintaining emergency supplies
• Documenting critical business information

Earthquakes can cause massive damage in a matter of seconds. At the first sign of shaking, time is of the essence to protect your people and property.

Safety Steps During an Earthquake

• Follow emergency exit procedures
• Seek appropriate shelter
• Avoid potential hazards
• Monitor emergency communications
• Account for personnel after the shaking stops
• Stay clear of buildings until local authorities confirm it is safe to enter

After an earthquake strikes, it is important to follow directions from local authorities. When it is safe to do so, use the resources below to begin the recovery process.

Tips for Immediately After an Earthquake

• Account for all staff and customers who were present before the earthquake began
• Check for injuries
• Contact emergency services for injuries and damage
• Contact utility providers as needed
• Document facility damage when safe to do so
• Prepare for aftershocks