Developing A Business Continuity Plan After A Disaster

Creating a business continuity plan after a disaster is an arduous process. In creating the plan, you should consider at least these areas:

  1. Fire Response Plan
  2. Emergency Medical Plan
  3. Emergency Communications Plan
  4. Information Technology Disaster Recovery Plan
  5. Crisis Management Plan
  6. Business Recovery Plan

Fire Response Plan

The business premises must be equipped with smoke alarms and/or sprinkler systems. The employees working in fire-prone areas must be provided with and are required to wear protective clothing. To further protect your company in case of a disaster, you should communicate with the local fire department and have them tour your facility.

Emergency Medical Plan

The business must provide a storage place for medical supplies and first aid kits. Assign a key person to perform regular inspections and replenishment with fresh supplies.

Emergency Communications Plan

Modern technology offers a multitude of ways to communicate. A group of small businesses in a community may connect to one another through land lines, online methods and mobile phones. The business must have a list of phone numbers for public utilities, the local police and fire stations and the hospital. Businesses in isolated areas must have a direct line to public transportation agencies for quick evacuation during a disaster. The internal emergency communication plan must include an efficient employee notification system.

Information Technology Disaster Recovery Plan

We highly recommend business’ use the “in-the-cloud” storage system as backup for important business files and information. It is best practice to choose a server located outside your local area. Your local server may be affected during major disasters.

Crisis Management Plan

To better manage any crisis, the emergency preparedness program must be thorough and complete. The business must be vigilant and responsible at all times. All hazardous materials must be examined regularly. When not in use, all dangerous and toxic chemicals must not be left just lying around the workplace but stored in an appropriate cabinet or room. Training is also important. Repetitive distribution of information helps train the mind to function properly during an emergency. Assign a key person to send a monthly newsletter about the company’s emergency preparedness plan. Another key person must make sure all employees perform regular drill exercises.

Business Recovery Plan

Disaster causes unseen damages like dampness and flooding. Flame, smoke, and extreme heat can activate the sprinkler systems. Water spraying everywhere destroys electronic facilities and business papers. The business must always anticipate the worse state of the workplace after a disaster. It is good practice to invest money on extra computers to use for an emergency and locate them of site in a remote location that is easily accessible.

When you need professional help for structural drying and property damage mitigation, First General is at your service 24/7.