Weather is one of those factors in business that people may (or may not) be cognizant of. Surely farmers and those in the agricultural sector are keenly aware of how the weather can impact their business. Weather is a “known risk factor” to agricultural businesses. But severe weather and natural disasters can have a long-reaching impact on businesses. Indeed, this post argues that part of your business continuity planning and business risk management planning should include a focus on the weather. When weather or other natural disasters occur, businesses may face immediate concerns: accounting for employees or securing their facilities, as examples. Major events such as hurricanes or flooding can leave business travelers stranded, or cause delays to shipments or supply chain.
PREPARING FOR NATURAL DISASTERS AND WEATHER RISKS TO YOUR BUSINESS
The best way for companies to prepare for these types of disasters is to always expect the unexpected. Understanding their risks and planning for emergencies can help minimize disruptions to a business. While it is not possible to predict every negative event that could occur, it would be prudent to consider impact. Severe weather and disaster-related risk assessment and contingency planning are critical to business continuity. Considering various risks to operations and employees in advance can help reassure a workforce and a customer base that plans are in place for their well-being. (The international travel security experts here at IMG GlobalSecur can factor in weather and natural disaster risks in a 24/7, 360 degree risk assessment audit and plan for your business. Indeed, we’re known in the industry as the goto experts on business continuity planning).
Basic elements of planning should include a method of keeping employees informed of evolving situations. Companies should also consider how to communicate with employees if accounting for them becomes necessary. (Our FoneTrac Travel Security App is highly appropriate for this use case). Planning for risk and business continuity can be particularly important for companies whose employees travel internationally. Providing them with updated information on the country or region of travel can help them plan most appropriately for risks, and having pre-established emergency plans can help keep them safer during significant events. Operationally, businesses can consider shifting workload to alternate sites that are remote from an impacted area, as well as alternate supply chain options that can readily communicated and implemented if and when risks arise.
In summary, as companies review their facilities and locations with an eye on security risks, they should not overlook the value of disaster planning to support employee safety and business continuity. If you’re the guy or gal at your company who is involved in risk planning and business continuity, reach out to one of our business risk assessment exports today for a free consultation.