Disaster/Emergency Planning for Museums & Galleries Katherine Duvall MD, MPH, MS Co-Director, Health in the Arts Program University of Illinois at Chicago

OSHA Requirement Every employer must have an emergency action plan (29 CFR )

Recommendations after September 11th Review existing plan Consider additions for potential terrorism events

Basic Considerations of Plan Purpose Key personnel Evacuation Procedures for those “staying behind” Employee accountability Rescue/medical duties Outside emergency personnel Alarm System Training

Basic Components of Emergency Plan Set up planning team with leader Analyze hazards and capabilities Analyze vulnerabilities Assess impact on employees, property, and business Develop plan Implement Plan – Training – Drills

Special Considerations Security Communications Life safety—employees and visitors Property protection Community outreach Recovery

Special Concerns for Museums/Galleries Protecting visitors Security Receiving art items/artifacts from other countries

Review of Existing Plan- Consider: Increase frequency of evacuation drills Increase number of first responders Increase frequency of personnel updates Increase security

Terrorist Tactics Biological – Spores (anthrax) – Bacteria – Toxins – Viruses

Terrorist Tactics (continued) Chemical – Nerve agents – Corrosives – Heavy Metals – Pesticides – Solvents

Terrorist Tactics (Continued) Radiation Explosion/Fire/Bomb Water/Food supply

Additions to Plan- Consider: Mail handling instructions and voluntary personal protection equipment Protocol for handling materials coming from outside USA Emergency supplies Clear protocol for who to call – Police – Chicago Health Department – FBI

Assess Likelihood of Being A Target May consider “tiered” approach If threat imminent, increase level of preparedness – Possibly closing museum – Essential personnel only – Additional security and property protection

Summary Review emergency plan Add to plan for protection against terrorism Communicate with local emergency personnel regarding plan Consider medical input

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