Work ready

Disaster can strike at any time, including during business hours. Workplaces that are not prepared for an emergency situation, along with subsequent financial and personal losses, may not be able to continue trading. Follow the simple steps below to put together a workplace emergency plan to help keep your team safe.

List the following information:

1. How to evacuate your workplace and where staff should assemble.
2. How to shut off services like gas and electricity.
3. A list of trained first aiders.
4. Emergency contact details for all staff.
5. A list of emergency supplies.
6. Remember to get input from your staff.

Now you have a workplace emergency plan, the next step is to ensure your staff are familiar with it. Encourage people to keep a supply of essential items they may need at work. Staff may also like to develop a personal workplace emergency plan.

Personal workplace emergency kit:

• Water.
• Waterproof clothing and sturdy walking shoes.
• Snack food.
• Torch.
• Mobile phone.
• Any necessary medicines.

Disasters often bring about a period of rapid change. Business continuity preparation is vital if your organisation is to survive a disaster or emergency situation. A continuity plan will help your business to adjust to altered circumstances and minimise risk to operations. Being able to adapt to change will not only help your business get through, but it will also help to make the most of the opportunities that can present themselves during a recovery.  

• Risk identification
  Identify possible risks and how they would impact on your business.
• Create disaster contingency plans
  Develop a comprehensive contingency plan for your whole business, including staff, information, assets, customers, suppliers and distribution channels.
• Be responsive
  Focus on training that will prepare leaders to adapt quickly to changes resulting from a disaster. Develop a plan to ensure staff are equipped with the skills needed to stay healthy and engaged.
• Build relationships
  A strong network will be crucial in a disaster situation. Look at building relationships with central and local government, other businesses, plus non-governmental and community organisations (NGOs).

Remember to:

• Display your office emergency plan in a prominent place.
• Encourage staff to prepare a personal workplace emergency plan.

Be proactive - think about ways your business could help other organisations and the community to get prepared.