Poland issues air attack response instructions and workplace safety guidance

The Polish Ministry of Interior and Administration is launching a new set of instructions to guide citizens on how to respond to potential air attacks. Starting September 25, these guidelines will be distributed via government websites, local governments, and the mObywatel application. The instructions emphasize pre-emptive preparation, such as identifying nearby shelters, establishing family meeting points, and preparing emergency kits.

Key safety recommendations include the ‘two-wall rule,’ where individuals should seek shelter in an interior room—such as a hallway or wardrobe—to ensure at least two solid walls stand between them and the outside. If staying in a building, residents are advised to stay away from windows and balconies and to prefer lower floors.

Simultaneously, employers and trade unions have raised concerns regarding the lack of clear procedures for handling RCB (Government Security Centre) alerts during working hours. While the Labour Code mandates protection during life-threatening situations, there is ambiguity regarding whether an alert necessitates a full work stoppage. The National Labour Inspectorate is currently developing specific guidelines to help companies manage these security challenges and review their evacuation and first aid protocols.