Keys to Effective Emergency Preparedness
Posted on Tue, Jun 01, 2010
Numerous regulatory agencies mandate the development and testing of Emergency Preparedness Plans. However, if an actual emergency were to occur, would your company be ready to respond effectively? The frame work of Emergency Management lies within four key concepts and how they can be utilized in real time.
Mitigation: Corporations need to limit the impact of a disaster through risk management prior to the onset of disaster. By identifying structural and non-structural risks, faculties can prevent hazards from evolving into disasters, or at a minimum, reduce the effects if an emergency were to occur. Companies may find that they can take simple steps to limit onsite risks, from increased lighting and security measures, to changes in policy and staff awareness. Simply put, if risks are identified, solutions and planning can be implemented to limit effects of a disaster.
Preparedness: The key to effective emergency preparedness planning is being ready to provide a rapid response in case of emergency. To be effective, plans need to be current, with the latest pertinent information, easily accessible to multiple people/groups, and easy to follow.
Some aspects of your company are steadfast and do not waiver. However, there are segments of any company that are fluid and changing. Intermittent emergency plan gap reviews are necessary to address new regulatory requirements, update employee contact information and current training certifications (ex. OSHA, HAZWOPER, NIIMS) and post the latest pertinent site-specific data. Numerous companies are evolving from document style planning to web-based planning systems in order to easily update and maintain their emergency preparedness plans and to make the plans more accessible for both internal and external stakeholders. These are just a few aspects of an effective Emergency Preparedness Plan.
Response: The mobilization of emergency response services is imperative to limiting the effects of an ongoing disaster. Having a well-rehearsed emergency plan enables efficient and effective coordination of rescue, and reduces loss of property and impact to the environment. Components of this includes current contact information and response times, as well as detailed site-specific data which can be made available to responders.
Recovery: After the threat to human life has passed, the response mode transforms into recovery from disaster. There is always a window of opportunity for mitigation review after an event. Companies should utilize those opportunities to limit future risk. The emergency preparedness plan should have a formulated process to aid in the reconstruction or restoration of its core business purpose. Business Continuity Plans are also a key consideration in order to maximize the company's ability to continue to operate in the wake of a disaster that causes damage or loss of infrastructure.