The recent storms in Auckland and the ongoing power outages are a good reminder to all businesses to have plans in place for when natural events cause disruption.
Staff safety
Do you know how to contact all your staff in case of emergency? It could be to check if they are ok, or to let them know whether or not to come into work. Who is the main point of contact?
Place of work
If you are unable to work in your usual location due to damage or lack of water or electricity, do you have alternative arrangements? Do staff have the right tools and access to be able to work from home? Do you have an alternative location that you can use? Do you have a generator to provide backup power?
Security of data
Many businesses are vulnerable if they are unable to access their data. Do you have backups that are stored offsite? Have you tested your data recovery procedures? Do you store your data on the cloud or use a third party data centre? Do you have staff policies and education in place to minimise the risk from hackers? Do you ensure your computer software is updated regularly?
Insurance
It maybe days, weeks or even months before business returns to normal. Do you have appropriate insurances (eg building insurance, business continuity insurance)? Do you have enough cover if your business has grown? When was the last time you reviewed your insurances with an advisor?
Don’t wait for the next storm before putting procedures in place. Talk with your team to discuss all the possibilities of what can go wrong, and put in place procedures to survive when the next disaster happens.