Plan for Specific Disasters

It’s critical for you to protect your business by identifying potential risks from natural and manmade disasters. Be pessimistic – this is definitely a case of planning for the worst and hoping for the best.

Here are some suggestions, if you are at risk for the following disasters:

Wildfires

• Maintain a 30-foot “combustible-free” zone around your facility. Remove any trees and combustible material, such as brush. Keep grass mowed and irrigated
• Consider the use of flame-resistant building materials when building or renovating
• Keep the roof and gutters clear of debris
• Attach nonflammable, fine-gauge screening over all chimneys

Tornado

• Assign one person to be responsible for monitoring weather alerts
• Establish interior, preferably basement, locations for employees to gather. Bathrooms, corners and short hallways are safest
• Remember, a “watch” means a tornado could happen and a “warning” means you should take immediate cover
• Keep surplus blankets in a shelter area

Hurricane

• Have a method of notifying employees concerning work status before and after the storm hits
• Protect windows with storm shutters or install plywood over them. Put masking tape over windows to reduce the risk of flying glass
• Consider evacuating vehicles in advance of the storm
• Put them in a garage or keep them outside, away from trees or other potential falling objects
• Bring outside signage, furniture, and decorations inside
• Remove damaged or diseased limbs from nearby trees
• Unplug all equipment and turn off the gas, electricity and water

Flooding

• Most standard insurance policies do not cover flood damage and the resulting loss of income. Check with your insurance agent on how to ensure adequate protection
• Reduce damage and ease clean up by building with flood-resistant materials
• Check with local authorities to find out the 100-year flood level of your structure
• Consider working with a licensed contractor to raise electrical and HVAC system above the 100-year flood level mark
• Keep computers, electronics, and important files raised off the floor
• Consider working with a licensed plumber to install a backflow valve to prevent sewage backup
• Be prepared to move critical items above flood level during a flood watch.

 Earthquake 

• Refer to your local building officials to ensure that your facility is up to code
• Use natural gas lines with flexible connections and automatic shut-off valves
• Use flexible water lines and/or couplings to toilets, sinks and in sprinkler systems
• Secure equipment, including computers, to the floor or walls to prevent tipping
• Make sure anything with a drawer or door, such as filing cabinets, has latches with a manual release

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MCS-0026

SPL-2000 (11/07)