When should staff be oriented to the emergency and disaster plan?

Staff should be oriented to the emergency and disaster plan within 24 hours of hiring to ensure that they are aware of the procedures and protocols necessary for maintaining safety and responding effectively during emergencies. This immediate orientation is crucial because new employees must understand their roles and the actions they need to take right from the start of their employment. By addressing this aspect very early, organizations can help mitigate risks and ensure that all staff are prepared to act quickly and efficiently in crisis situations, fostering a culture of safety within the workplace.

Delaying orientation for longer periods, such as 48 hours, one week, or 10 days, may leave new hires ill-prepared to respond to emergencies that could occur shortly after they begin their roles. Thus, the focus on a prompt orientation within the first 24 hours aligns with best practices for emergency preparedness in a professional environment.