Although you hope you never have to use them, emergency office supplies are a must for keeping employees, your business and yourself safe and secure in the event of a disaster. Preparing for the worst may be part of your job description and it comes with a great responsibility. The Small Business Administration says that small businesses are especially at risk, with up to 25% ceasing operation after a disaster. Most were unprepared for an emergency and had no disaster plan.

Finding workplace emergency preparedness supplies doesn't have to be a daunting task as there are many vendors who specialize in first aid kits and other emergency supplies you will need. Understand, however, that your business emergency needs are unique and may not be covered by a pre-assembled kit.

When it comes to preparing your office for an emergency, consider these suggestions:

1. Be aware of the types of emergencies most common in your area or industry when reviewing emergency kits for businesses.

2. Along with getting your emergency supplies, discuss with your insurance agent options for protecting your business.

3. Designate safety coordinators—responsible staff members employed on different shifts—to be in charge of safety-related issues and stocking business emergency survival kits.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Include lights and radios in your equipment for workplace emergencies

Above all else, ample light and information are essential in an emergency. Make sure you have a working flashlight as candles are not recommended for emergency lighting. A radio can help alert you to changes and give you the most updated information.

I recommend: Browse the selection of emergency lights and radios at Preparedplanet.com. From hand-cranked lights and radios to light sticks, find a variety of products at Quake Kare Inc.

Purchase wholesale emergency supplies including food and water

Your emergency kit should contain enough food (non-perishable, of course) to sustain you and others for at least one day. Items such as canned meals and juices and granola bars are best. Store at least one gallon of water per person.

I recommend: LifeSecure offers emergency drinking water and food bars for purchase separately, or these supplies come in some of their assembled emergency kit packages. Find drink mixes and other emergency nutrition replenishment materials from Airgas, Inc.

Find the workplace emergency equipment to fit your needs

While there are many first-aid kits that are prepackaged you may want to customize a kit to fit your individual needs. You can always add in items or create your own kit. Make sure your kit is waterproof and easy to carry.

I recommend: Fill your first aid kit with any items you see fit with custom kits from SafetyMax. Find an industry specific first aid kit from Initial Response Inc., along with individual supplies to add for customizing.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Include medications such as pain relievers, bandages with gauze and blankets in your supplies for workplace emergencies. The American Red Cross also suggests having plastic garbage bags with ties available for personal sanitation issues.