Natural disasters happen every day – and there’s no way to predict things before they go wrong. If you have a plan in place, though, your company can recover faster (and more efficiently) than it would if you weren’t planning for the worst.
Here’s what you need to know.
Does Your Company Have a Disaster Response Program?
Having a disaster response program in place is good business. The time you invest in preparing now can make things a lot easier on you in the future. Here’s what to do:
- Identify risks
- Take steps to prevent risks
- Get emergency contacts for your workers
- Set up an emergency kit
- Develop your plan
Here’s a closer look at each.
Disaster Response Program Step 1: Identify risks
What kinds of risks does your business face? In Michigan, there are obvious risks – like those presented by tornadoes – and some that aren’t so obvious (such as when your business is located on a floodplain). Does your business rely heavily on foot traffic, and is it located somewhere that it’s susceptible to catching fire if other buildings go up in flames? Create a list of the biggest disasters your business could face so you know what to do to minimize your risk.
Disaster Response Program Step 2: Take steps to mitigate risks
An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure; isn’t that how the saying goes? That means you need to go through your business’s location and perform routine checks on things like sprinkler systems, smoke alarms, security systems, plumbing and electricity.
Disaster Response Program Step 3: Get emergency contacts for your workers
You’ll want all your employees’ emergency contact information so you can get in touch if you need to during an emergency. You’ll also want to get information for their contacts in case something happens to them on the job.
Disaster Response Program Step 4: Set up an emergency kit
Keep an emergency preparedness kit on-hand. In fact, you should keep several of these kits around your workplace, and make sure they include things like:
- First-aid supplies
- Flashlights
- Battery powered radios
- Tool kits
- Extra batteries
- Non-perishable food and can openers
- Bottled water
Disaster Response Program Step 5: Develop your plan
If possible, you should appoint a disaster plan coordinator. If not, you can do it yourself – as long as your plan covers:
- Keeping workers safe
- Securing dangerous objects, chemicals and other things routinely used in your business
- Maintaining business operations in the event of an emergency
- Evacuation routes
- A list of employees who must perform essential functions in the event of an emergency (and back-ups in case those employees are unable to perform)
- A designated outside meeting place where everyone should go if there’s an emergency inside the building
Having a disaster response program in place is always good business. It’s far better to have one and not need it than to need one and not have it.
Do You Need a Disaster Remediation Expert in Washtenaw County or Jackson County?
If your home has already been damaged, we can help. Check out our services and call 734-352-9183 for your free disaster remediation quote today. We offer:
