September is National Preparedness Month, an excellent time for families and communities to take steps to prepare for the worst. It’s also a great time for businesses to look at disaster preparedness, expanding the definition to include natural disasters, accidents, and pandemics. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and halfway through into hurricane season, if you haven’t evaluated your plans and policies—or if you don’t have any—get started with these four steps.
From accidents to natural disasters to pandemics, it’s not if but when. The trick is to be prepared. Disaster preparedness starts with a plan, and any good plan incorporates the recommendations of qualified agencies, including the Center for Disease Control (CDC), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Your plan should incorporate communication, coverage, and safety protocols, and it should be reviewed and updated regularly.
Just like private residences, your company should have supplies on hand should injuries arise and/or to keep workers safe should there be a disaster or pandemic. OSHA requires employers to provide medical and first aid personnel and supplies commensurate with workplace hazards.
Take steps to limit the impact of disasters on your facility. Get acquainted with the risk of natural disasters in your area and verify you have the appropriate insurance level. And learn how to make your building stronger and more secure in the face of storms and other common hazards.
Communication is critical before, during, and after accidents, disasters, and pandemics. Include disaster preparedness in employee onboarding, train workers on procedures, and keep everyone informed when events unfold.
From first aid kits to PPE to supplies, we’re here with the products and services you need. Our team is on-hand to offer expert guidance and advice to help you evaluate your needs. Contact us today!
