Shelter-in-Place Supply Check Inspection Checklist [FREE PDF]

Shelter-in-place preparedness is mandated under OSHA 1910.38 and reinforced by FEMA CPG 101, requiring organizations to maintain adequate supplies for employees to safely remain on-site during emergencies. Proper inventory of food, water, first aid, and communication equipment must be verified at regular intervals to ensure functionality and currency. This checklist provides a structured inspection process to confirm all shelter-in-place resources meet regulatory and operational readiness standa

  • Industry: Emergency Management
  • Frequency: Monthly
  • Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes
  • Role: Emergency Manager
  • Total Items: 36
  • Compliance: OSHA 29 CFR 1910.38 Emergency Action Plans, FEMA CPG 101 v2.0 Developing and Maintaining Emergency Operations Plans, NFPA 1600 Standard on Continuity, Emergency, and Crisis Management, NFPA 101 Life Safety Code Section 4.8, ICS/NIMS National Incident Management System Standards

Water Supply Inventory

Verify adequate potable water supply for all expected occupants during a shelter-in-place event.

  • Is there at least one gallon of potable water per person per day available for a minimum 72-hour period?
  • Are all water containers sealed, undamaged, and free of visible contamination?
  • Are expiration or rotation dates clearly marked on all water containers?
  • Is a water purification method (tablets, filter, or UV device) present as a backup?
  • What is the total gallons of potable water currently stored in this zone?

Food and Nutrition Supplies

Confirm non-perishable food supply is sufficient, properly stored, and within expiration dates.

  • Is there a minimum 72-hour supply of non-perishable food available for all expected occupants?
  • Are all food items within their labeled expiration or best-by dates?
  • Is food stored in a pest-resistant, moisture-proof, and temperature-appropriate container or area?
  • Are manual can openers or utensils included with canned food supplies?
  • Are dietary restriction accommodations (e.g., gluten-free, allergen-free) represented in the food supply?

First Aid and Medical Supplies

Inspect first aid kits and medical equipment to ensure readiness and regulatory compliance.

  • Is at least one fully stocked first aid kit present and compliant with ANSI/ISEA Z308.1 standards?
  • Are all first aid supplies within their labeled expiration dates?
  • Is an automated external defibrillator (AED) accessible within this shelter zone?
  • Is a list of current occupant medications or known medical conditions accessible to the shelter coordinator?
  • Are at least two trained first aid/CPR responders identified for this shelter zone?

Communication Equipment and Alerts

Verify that communication tools for receiving alerts and coordinating internally are functional and available.

  • Is a battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio present and operational in this shelter zone?
  • Are backup batteries or a hand-crank power source available and tested for the emergency radio?
  • Is a written communication tree or contact list posted within the shelter area?
  • Is a two-way radio or walkie-talkie available for communication with other shelter zones or command?
  • Is a charged backup power bank or alternative device charging solution available for mobile devices?

Shelter Environment and Structural Readiness

Assess the physical shelter space for safety, accessibility, and environmental controls.

  • Is the shelter area free of structural damage, leaks, or hazards that could compromise occupant safety?
  • Is the shelter area accessible to individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations?
  • Is HVAC or ventilation in the shelter capable of being sealed or shut off to prevent outside air infiltration during a hazmat event?
  • Is plastic sheeting and duct tape available to seal doors, windows, and vents if required for hazmat shelter-in-place?
  • Is adequate lighting, including battery-powered backup lighting, available throughout the shelter area?

Sanitation and Hygiene Supplies

Confirm that sanitation materials are stocked to maintain hygiene during extended shelter-in-place events.

  • Are portable toilet or sanitation provisions available if restroom access is restricted during a shelter event?
  • Are hand sanitizer, soap, and hygiene wipes stocked in sufficient quantity for all occupants for 72 hours?
  • Are feminine hygiene products and personal care items included in the shelter supply kit?
  • Are waste disposal bags and ties available for management of refuse during the shelter event?
  • Is a written sanitation protocol posted in the shelter area?

Documentation, Plans, and Training Verification

Confirm that shelter-in-place plans are documented, posted, and that staff are trained.

  • Is the current written shelter-in-place plan posted or readily accessible within the shelter area?
  • Has the shelter-in-place plan been reviewed or updated within the past 12 months?
  • Have all employees expected to use this shelter zone received shelter-in-place training in the past 12 months?
  • Has a shelter-in-place drill been conducted for this zone within the past 12 months?
  • Are corrective actions from the previous inspection or drill documented and resolved?
  • Please note any additional observations, deficiencies, or recommended corrective actions from this inspection.

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Why Use This Shelter-in-Place Supply Check Inspection Checklist [FREE PDF]?

This shelter-in-place supply check inspection checklist [free pdf] helps emergency management teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for emergency manager professionals, this checklist covers 36 critical inspection points across 7 sections. Recommended frequency: monthly.

Ensures compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.38 Emergency Action Plans, FEMA CPG 101 v2.0 Developing and Maintaining Emergency Operations Plans, NFPA 1600 Standard on Continuity, Emergency, and Crisis Management, NFPA 101 Life Safety Code Section 4.8, ICS/NIMS National Incident Management System Standards. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Shelter-in-Place Supply Check Inspection Checklist [FREE PDF] cover?

This checklist covers 36 inspection items across 7 sections: Water Supply Inventory, Food and Nutrition Supplies, First Aid and Medical Supplies, Communication Equipment and Alerts, Shelter Environment and Structural Readiness, Sanitation and Hygiene Supplies, Documentation, Plans, and Training Verification. It is designed for emergency management operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed monthly. Each completion takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

Who should use this Shelter-in-Place Supply Check Inspection Checklist [FREE PDF]?

This checklist is designed for Emergency Manager professionals in the emergency management industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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