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There are many different types of disasters. Which ones on the list below do you feel are a real threat, a possibility, not likely or highly unlikely? Keep in mind there was recently an earthquake in Virginia. Some of these may be caused by passing traffic, a neighboring business or a company that services you.
Flood Hurricane
Earthquake Tornado
Fire Aircraft crash
Explosion Localized contamination Loss of communications Strike
Hazardous Material Spill Loss of power Arson Vandalism
Water damage
Sabotage
With this in mind, the first order objective for a Business Continuity Plan, and the most cost-effective deterrent is Prevention. What steps have you taken to prevent a disaster from being disastrous to your business?
Some steps are employee training, installing security alarms and lighting, regular facility and equipment inspections and maintaining alternate suppliers and material transports. These are simple things to do that will go a long way towards prevention.
Imagine a disaster and plan how you could prevent it. Once you have your prevention plan outlined, submit it to your insurance company and find out if there is a discount available. Your insurance company may even have a list available.
If you have additions for the list, or a unique experience you’d like to share, feel free to comment below.
Patricia Burkhart is the executive director of Controlled Release Technologies, Inc., a research, development and manufacturing firm based in Shelby, North Carolina. CRT is an IFMA CSP, EnergyStar Partner and manufacturer of independently-certified Green products for HVAC maintenance. Since 1986, CRT has been creating leading edge HVAC maintenance products that have become industry standards, used in thousands of commercial buildings world-wide. CRT employees are members of BOMA, ASHRAE, ASHE and the American Chemical Society. www.cleanac.com (800) 766-9057.
