DISASTER PLANNING

June 5, 2007: Today our own Peter Lucash brought us invaluable information to assist us in planning for disaster at our places of business and our homes.

Contrary to common perception, natural disasters only account for a small percentage of the disasters that businesses encounter. The top three items that can cause business interruptions are hardware failure, utilities failure, and deliberate/malicious acts. Although natural disasters are rare, having a specific plan is of utmost importance in order to function should one occur.

The question that one must ask is “How long can the business keep operating without employees being able to go to the place of business?” For most, the current answer is “not very long at all!” By utilizing the planning strategies that Peter shared , businesses should be able to extend their viability.

The first area of concern should be the people. We cannot discount the fact that employees have families and homes that they value more than their jobs. It is important to set up systems to help employees cope during an evacuation. Some suggestions include setting up a common location at a hotel that is animal friendly, having mechanisms in place to automate payroll, and having a planned evacuation route.

Communication is a key concern. Businesses should be certain to keep detailed phone lists of employees, customers and vendors. Peter wisely recommends that duplicates of these lists be stored at a location at least 50 miles from the place of business. When preparing for an evacuation, businesses should carefully do the same with current accounts payable and accounts receivable.

Close attention should also be paid to the workplace. Depending on the size of the business, an option would be to have an alternate location. If this is not feasible, having up a mobile operations plan is important. By utilizing satellite phones, conference calls, and message boards, employees can be located and can continue to conduct business.

In addition, it is recommended that businesses create a videotape of the workplace and all of its contents. The tape should be sent to the insurance company and another copy stored at a location at least 50 miles away.

On a final note, Peter encouraged individuals to plan ahead and have personal Hurricane Kits at the ready. The kit should include a bucket, handi-wipes, toilet tissue, bread, peanut butter, lots of water, and protein bars.

Reported by Angie Johnson, Keyway Committee