5 Questions Every Business Should Address In A Disaster Prep Plan
The world is full of things that simply need to get done. One item that needs to be on everyone’s checklist of every business owner is a disaster preparation plan. Natural disasters have a way of revealing weak links in the planning process of every company. The ramifications from a disaster can be long and extensive, but by answering a few questions every organization can get a plan in place to help restore normal operations as quickly as possible.
Does Everyone Know What to Do?
From first line employees to public relations specialists, everyone in an organization needs trained on what to do in the event of a natural disaster. As part of the disaster prep plan, that training is essential to the safety of employees, customers, and anyone else in the vicinity of the business. Plus, holding periodic drills and training sessions throughout the year are should also be included in the plan.
Does Everyone Know Where to Go?
In times of catastrophic events, simply knowing where to go can remove a lot of stress from the equation. Storm shelters, muster areas, and evacuation routes need to be clearly marked, and everyone in the organization should be required to keep those routes clear and uncluttered. The disaster prep plan should identify these routes and focus on their importance to the organization and the people within.
Does Everyone Know What to Take?
Every business should have some sort of long-term plan in place should operations be affected. From reports to muster lists to checklists, employees and managers should know what to take with them should an evacuation be necessary or should some sort of power failure occur. Training and planning are essential to make sure important documents make it to their assigned places to give responders some help in performing their jobs and protect the business.
Does Everyone Know Who to Call?
Having a point of contact during times of crisis can have a calming influence on everyone. Disaster preparation plans should indicate clearly who to call in case of any emergency. Employees on duty should be instructed and trained thorough on who to contact in the event an unexpected disaster occurs. The contact person should be prepared and trained as well on the necessary steps after contact is made. Disaster preparation plans should clearly define responsibilities for everyone in the organization.
Does the Company Need Help Planning?
Entire businesses have been built upon disaster planning. For example, Catherine Hooper and Black Umbrella can help any business finalize formal disaster plans quickly. That kind of dedication and experience can be priceless whenever the unexpected strikes. Any company or organization that wants to be certain the proper protocols are in place should seek the help of a professional third part. After all, nobody can plan for everything, but having a plan in place removes a certain level of stress from the entire equation.
In the end, disaster preparation is all about answering questions. Asking and answering those questions can take a small amount of time, but the benefits of having a plan in place can be vital to speeding the recovery process. Companies might never need to put the plan into place, but should the need arise everyone in the organization will be glad that the strategy was in place.
