Emergency Situation Act (1996). Country/Territory Estonia Document type Legislation Date 1996 (2002) Source FAO, FAOLEX Subject Environment gen. Keyword Hazards Institution Liability/compensation Early warning system Geographical area Europe, Europe and Central Asia, European Union Countries, Northern Europe Entry into force notes The Act enters into force from 16 February 1996. Abstract This Act provides for the following to allow for implementation of necessary measures in the event of a natural disaster or catastrophe, or to prevent the spread of an infectious disease: 1) the basis, conditions and procedure for declaration of an emergency situation and the competence of public authorities responsible for responding to emergency situations; 2) the measures which may be implemented during an emergency situation and the rights, duties and liability of persons during an emergency situation. The Government of the Republic declares an emergency situation throughout the state or in a part thereof pursuant to clause 87 8) of the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia in the event of a natural disaster or catastrophe or in order to prevent the spread of an infectious disease. An emergency situation is declared on the condition that it is necessary to implement extensive measures, including rescue work, promptly in the event of a natural disaster or catastrophe, or in order to prevent the spread of an infectious disease, and that it is not possible to eliminate the danger or assist the victims without implementation of the measures provided for in this Act. The document consists of 5 chapters that contain 28 paragraphs. Chapter 1 (paragraphs 1-9) lays down general provisions. Chapter 2 (paragraphs 10-17) establishes procedure for declaration and termination of emergency situation. Chapter 3 (paragraphs 18-23) establishes competence of public authorities responsible for responding to emergency situation, measures to be implemented and duties of persons during emergency situation. Chapter 4 (paragraphs 24-27) establishes conditions for compensation and social guarantees for persons. Chapter 5 (paragraph 28) establishes liability. Full text English