F-89 Emergency Action Plan (EAPD) / Fire Safety Director (FSD) Practice Exam

If a crane collapses against a building, what is the correct response according to the EAP?

1. Shelter in place for all occupants.

2. In-building relocation away from the collapse site.

3. Immediate evacuation of the building.

4. Lockdown the building until further notice.

The correct answer is: In-building relocation away from the collapse site.

The response to a crane collapse against a building, as indicated in the context of an Emergency Action Plan (EAP), emphasizes the safety of occupants by recommending in-building relocation away from the collapse site. This action helps to mitigate risk while keeping individuals safe within the structure rather than exposing them to potential hazards outside. In-building relocation is typically favored because it allows occupants to avoid danger without immediately facing the risks associated with evacuation, such as falling debris or hazards that may be present outside. This approach also allows emergency services a clearer path to assess the situation and manage the debris or structural integrity of the building without congestion from a large-scale evacuation. Shelter in place is generally more applicable during certain types of emergencies, such as hazardous material spills or active shooter situations when staying indoors is safer. Immediate evacuation might lead to chaos and could place individuals in greater danger if the area outside is unsafe at that moment. Lockdown measures usually pertain to specific threats, like security concerns, and may not pertain to situations involving structural collapse where access may still be needed for emergency responders to act effectively. Thus, the recommendation for in-building relocation aligns with best practices for managing a crane collapse incident, prioritizing occupant safety and maintaining order during potentially dangerous situations.