This program can be used by manufacturers, corporate offices, retailers, utilities, or any organization where a sizable number of people work or gather. An emergency is any unplanned event that can cause deaths or injuries to employees, customers, or the public; or that can shut down business, disrupt operations, cause physical or environmental damage, or threaten the facility’s financial standing or public image. Numerous events can be emergencies, including fire, hurricane, earthquake, civil disturbance, or explosion. Emergency management is the process of preparing for, mitigating, responding to, and recovering from an emergency. To be successful, emergency management requires upper management support. An emergency management program can: (1) help facilities fulfill their moral responsibility to protect employees, the community, and the environment; (2) facilitate compliance with regulatory requirements of Federal, State, and local agencies; (3) enhance a company’s ability to recover from financial losses; (4) reduce exposure to civil or criminal liability; (5) enhance a company’s image and credibility; and (6) reduce insurance premiums. The guide is organized into four sections. The first section includes the four steps in the planning process: how to form a planning team; how to conduct a vulnerability analysis; how to develop a plan; and how to implement the plan. Section 2 discusses emergency management considerations: how to build such emergency management capabilities as life safety; property protection; communications; and community outreach. Section 3 provides hazard-specific information: technical information about specific hazards the facility may face. Section 4 provides information sources--where to turn for additional information. 2 appendices