Policy: Emergency evacuation

1. Purpose

This policy outlines Dragonfly Dance’s commitment to the safety of all staff, students, contractors, and visitors by ensuring that a clear, effective, and practiced evacuation procedure is in place for emergencies such as fire, gas leaks, threats, or natural disasters.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all persons on-site at Dragonfly Dance, including staff, contractors, volunteers, students, visitors, and any other individuals present during classes, events, rehearsals, or meetings.

3. Policy Statement

Dragonfly Dance is committed to maintaining a safe and prepared environment for all who enter the studio. We will ensure that:

• Emergency evacuation procedures are documented, accessible, and understood.

• All staff receive appropriate training and participate in drills.

• Clients and visitors are guided and supported during any evacuation.

• Post-incident procedures are followed to support safety, wellbeing, and continuity.

• Evacuation procedures are documents.

• Regular evacuation drills are conducted to ensure preparedness.

4. Principles

• The safety of people is the highest priority in any emergency.

• Emergency evacuations must be carried out swiftly, calmly, and in accordance with the evacuation procedure.

• Roles and responsibilities are clearly defined and communicated.

• Evacuation drills are conducted biannually and reviewed as part of our OH&S and facility maintenance processes.

• Recovery and follow-up steps are implemented post-incident to ensure business continuity and support.

5. Roles and responsibilities

Studio Owner

Ultimate responsibility for safety policy, post-incident recovery, and communication.

• Business Services Manager

• Coordinates and schedules evacuation drills; ensures procedure visibility and staff compliance.

• Reviews the procedure annually or after any significant change or incident.

Teaching staff

Responsible for leading evacuations, accounting for students, and supporting safe assembly.

All Staff

Required to understand and act in accordance with the evacuation procedure.

Students and clients

• Follow instructions from staff calmly and promptly.

• Do not re-enter the building until cleared by emergency services.

Visitors and other individuals in the building

• Must comply with all directions during an evacuation.

• Should make themselves aware of evacuation signage and listen to staff guidance.

6. Review and updates

This policy is reviewed annually, or earlier if changes to legislation, layout, or operations occur. Revisions are managed by the Facilities Coordinator in consultation with the Studio Owner and Business Services Manager.

7. Related Documents

• Emergency Evacuation Procedure

• Injury and Incident Policy and Procedure

• Quarterly OH&S Checklist

• Facility Maintenance Schedule