On 29th November 2024, a one-day orientation program on Earthquake Preparedness and Risk Reduction Measures was successfully conducted at the ICIMOD office in Lalitpur, Nepal. Organized by ICIMOD Nepal with technical support from Earthquake Safety Solutions (ESS), the program aimed to enhance awareness and preparedness for earthquake safety through engaging sessions and practical drills.
Two identical orientations were conducted in Nepali and English, ensuring accessibility for all participants. Approximately 300 staff members actively took part, gaining essential skills such as understanding earthquake risks in Nepal, identifying and mitigating non-structural hazards, preparing at individual, household, and organizational levels, and practicing safety behaviors during and after an earthquake
The highlight of the program was an earthquake drill initiated by a siren. Participants promptly evacuated the building and assembled at designated safe zones. This was followed by a detailed debriefing session, where attendees shared their experiences and received feedback on their evacuation practices.
