Wednesday, August 09, 2006

Disaster Planning: Ready for Implementation

Tropical Storm Chris was a reminder that a disaster can strike anytime, in any area. Perhaps you’ve already taken the time to sit down with employees to go over the steps they should take if a storm or other disaster occurs. The last thing to cover is how to implement the plan.



The following checklist is based on recommendations contained in ACT’s reports and is designed to assist agencies in updating their current disaster plans:



When a Foreseeable Disaster is Imminent

FedEx a tape of the latest database to the company system’s data center.

Consider e-mail and automatic call outs to customers with emergency contact information.

Staff should complete processing of all work that is outstanding, especially for Matters relating to a disaster.
Make sure all needed lists are updated in paper form as well as exported to a laptop and portable storage device. Tight security is imperative.

Make sure all employees know their assignments and have made clear how they can be reached in emergency.

If possible, load your company system application onto a laptop along with your latest data file for instant access. Take all security precautions to protect your data.

If you utilize an online data backup service, upload to them if possible.

Wrap and label all employee work to be done to protect it.

Take reasonable steps to protect all equipment.
Redirect your phone numbers before the disaster.

Disconnect all electrical equipment from the wall.
If destruction of file server is imminent, consider taking the server with you if you know how to disconnect it and handle it safely.

Shut off water and gas lines.

Have needed provisions on hand, including enough cash for a few weeks.

Needed Provisions
Fans, extension cords, batteries, flashlights, battery-powered lamps and radios and low heat, low-energy lighting available to use with your generator.

Sufficient bottled water to handle employees’ and customers’ needs for two weeks.

Canned or dry food goods that do not require refrigeration or cooking, as well as beverages and snacks for employees and customers.

Can openers, paper/plastic utensils, plates and cups, trash bags, bleach, paper towels and cleaning supplies, and hand wipes.

First aid supplies and blankets.

Matches, barbeque grill, fuel for grill.

Customers’ and Employees’ Special Needs in Disaster Aftermath

Be aware there will be significant emotional and psychological effects after major events.

Provide drinks and food.
Staff should caucus each day to adjust response as necessary.


Supplier Issues

Understand in advance each of your supplier's CAT plans, the local presence they will have and how they will permit you to contact them efficiently.

Seek draft authority or methods to provide customers with emergency funds immediately.

2 comments:

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Anonymous said...

Nice post