Emergency Planning: Finding Safety in Chaos
June is recognized as National Safety Month—a time to raise awareness about the leading causes of preventable injuries and deaths in the workplace and our communities. But when the unexpected strikes, are we truly prepared? At GLC Minerals, June is more than just a month of awareness—it’s a time to act.
This month, we’re encouraging all GLC employees and their families to revisit their emergency plans, run practice drills, and equip themselves with basic emergency preparedness knowledge.
Why Emergency Planning Matters
Emergency planning is the process of creating clear, actionable procedures to respond to a wide range of emergencies—from natural disasters to fires to medical incidents. The objective? To minimize harm, protect lives, and ensure a quick return to normalcy.
In a workplace setting, a well-structured emergency plan can mean the difference between chaos and calm. That’s why, during our annual refresher training at GLC Minerals, we reinforce this message: “The actions taken in the initial minutes of an emergency are critical.” Our Emergency Response Plan is more than just a document—it’s a commitment. Every employee is trained to understand their role and responsibility in the event of a crisis.
And at home, the same principle applies. Does your family know the evacuation route? Who’s your emergency contact? Where’s the nearest shelter or hospital? These are questions that shouldn’t be answered for the first time in a moment of panic.
Leadership in the Moment
When an emergency strikes at GLC, we have a trained incident commander ready to lead. This individual coordinates communication, directs response activities, and makes critical decisions—like notifying local law enforcement or initiating an evacuation.
But leadership isn’t just for the workplace. At home, who’s your incident commander? It might be a parent, the eldest sibling, or someone else entirely. What matters is that the role is discussed and defined before an emergency occurs.
Practice Makes Prepared
At GLC, we believe in more than just theory—we believe in action. That’s why we regularly conduct unannounced “skill drills.” These mock emergencies are designed to test our team in real-time, with real pressure—and sometimes, real surprises.
From operators to managers to the customer care team, everyone participates. And afterward, we review, reflect, and improve.
You can apply this same mindset at home. Try a fire drill. Practice seeking shelter during a simulated tornado. Make a disaster kit. Learn CPR. Even small steps build muscle memory and confidence.
Prepared People Save Lives
Emergency planning isn’t about fear—it’s about empowerment. When individuals are trained and prepared, they’re more likely to stay calm, think clearly, and make life-saving decisions. That’s why emergency preparedness fosters a culture of responsibility and resilience.
A Call to Action
June Safety Month isn’t just a line on the calendar—it’s a reminder that safety starts with us. Whether you’re on the plant floor, at your desk, or at your dinner table, now is the time to assess your emergency readiness.
At GLC Minerals, safety is more than a priority—it’s part of who we are. Let’s use this month to strengthen our emergency plans, fill in the gaps, and build a safer future for everyone.
Stay safe. Stay prepared. Stay GOLD+.