How can a business address security during a pandemic?
Public services that are taken for granted will be stretched, and their availability should not be assumed. This could have wide-ranging implications for law and order, and security arrangements should be reviewed to ensure they are adequate.
Make sure your organization reviews its security protocols and makes the necessary arrangements to fill potential gaps if emergency services are unable to respond.
How can a business ensure its supply chain?
There will be widespread disruption to the normal shipping and receiving of goods and services necessary to sustain business. In addition, travel restrictions will limit the movement of people. You need to establish alternative supply and delivery chains and consider the potential impact if transport restrictions are implemented.
Most organizations heavily rely on suppliers for key services and may outsource entire functions to specialist partners. Given the heavy reliance on third parties, review their contingency plans to make sure they are adequate for a pandemic.
How important is communication in the midst of a pandemic?
Even in advance of a pandemic, fear, anxiety and rumor will affect work force behavior. When the pandemic actually hits, this situation will worsen, and providing timely and accurate information will prove critical.
Before that happens, you need to develop and implement an effective communication plan so that staff can be updated as the situation develops.
Mary Walkenhorst is the health care practice leader at Aon Risk Services. Reach her at (314) 854-0702 or [email protected].
