American Society of Safety Engineers urges businesses to prepare for hurricanes

by Brianna Crandall — September 8, 2010—The American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) reminds businesses in the aftermath of recent disasters that it is important to not only have an emergency plan in place should a contingency situation such as a hurricane or other catastrophe happen, but that that plan should be communicated and updated consistently.

ASSE notes that the hurricane season in the Atlantic began June 1 and ends November 30. The Eastern Pacific hurricane season began May 15 and also ends November 30.

According to ASSE, there are three critical phases of crisis management: vulnerability assessment, response management and business continuity. Although there is no one-size-fits-all solution, ASSE urges businesses to:

1. Conduct a risk assessment, ranging from self-assessment to an extensive engineering study;
   
2. Make an emergency plan–assess how your company functions, both internally and externally;
   
3. Plan what you will do if your building, plant or store is not accessible and develop a continuity of operations plan that includes all facets of your business;
   
4. Define procedures—define crisis management procedures and individual responsibilities in advance and make sure those involved know what their responsibilities are, train others in case you need back-up help and review your emergency plans annually;
   
5. Coordinate with others—meet with other businesses in your building or industrial complex and talk with first responders, emergency managers, community organizations and utility providers; plan with your suppliers, shippers and others you regularly do business with; and
   
6. Carry out emergency planning for employees—find out what people need to recover after a disaster, as they will need time to ensure the well being of their families.