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

In the event of an explosion, which step must the emergency action plan director take?

1. Activate the fire alarm system immediately

2. Inform building occupants and activate the shelter in place response

3. Evacuate all occupants without delay

4. Wait for the fire department's instructions

The correct answer is: Inform building occupants and activate the shelter in place response

In the context of an explosion, the emergency action plan director's immediate responsibilities focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of all building occupants. Informing occupants and activating a shelter-in-place response allows individuals to remain in a secured location within the building, which can be safer than evacuating, depending on the circumstances of the explosion. This response minimizes the risk of exposure to further hazards, including potential secondary explosions or dangerous debris. Sheltering in place also provides a more controlled environment for communication, allowing the emergency action plan director to assess the situation more thoroughly and wait for further instructions from authorities or responders. It prioritizes the immediate safety of individuals until it's clear whether evacuation is necessary or safe to conduct. While activating the fire alarm system and planning for evacuation are important elements of emergency response, in the case of an explosion, immediately informing occupants to shelter in place can be the most prudent choice. It enables a rapid dissemination of crucial safety information and aids in preventing panic or chaotic evacuation that might exacerbate the situation.