Every business has a number of challenges to overcome to ensure business continuity in the event
of severe weather. Preparation is key to minimising disruption during such events.
The Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation has prepared a practical checklist for the
business sector which outlines key issues to address as part of business continuity planning for,
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and in response to, severe weather events. The checklist is available in the document at
www.dbei.gov.ie under Publications: Business Continuity Planning in Severe Weather.
Practical considerations on how a severe weather event can affect operations include:
1. IMPACT ON PLACE OF BUSINESS
•
Consider how various severe weather scenarios can affect the place of work i.e. the site and
buildings.
• Is the location at risk of flooding?
• Are access points liable to difficulties e.g. access roads positioned on a slope at risk of ice?
• Are water pipes insulated (including in and around vacant buildings)?Ensure that the business
has information and contact details regarding key services including local authorities.
•
Ensure that the business has information and contact details regarding key services including
local authorities.
•
Review insurance cover and contact insurance advisors in relation to any concern a business
may have.
2. IMPACT ON EMPLOYEES
•
Consider the potential impact as a result of employees being unable to attend the place of
work.
•
Consider how alternative work practices could minimise disruption e.g. teleworking, shift-work
and consider how the Human Resource Management practices in the business can cater for
disruption.