During an emergency, what is an appropriate action for the emergency action plan director?

In an emergency, the role of the emergency action plan director is to ensure the safety of all occupants while minimizing the risks associated with the specific situation. Relocating occupants to the floor above the hazard is often considered an appropriate action because it effectively utilizes vertical evacuation as a means to move individuals away from danger, particularly when there may be fire, smoke, or other hazardous conditions on a lower floor.

This strategy helps to reduce exposure to immediate threats found at ground level while keeping occupants safely distanced from potential dangers. The director must assess the situation and determine if the upper area remains safe, as it protects individuals without unnecessarily exposing them to danger or causing panic.

The other options do not align with the best practices during an emergency. For example, evacuating occupants to the ground floor could lead them directly into a hazardous environment, while instructing them to stay in place might expose them to risks if they are in an unsafe area. Closing all exits to limit movement could trap individuals and prevent them from reaching safer locations. Thus, relocating occupants to a safer level above the hazard stands out as a prudent and protective action in an emergency situation.