How to survive in a crisis

Nov 20 2007 By The Journal

HOW would you ensure your business survives in a crisis A crisis that threatens the survival of your business could happen at anytime.

The most common threats to your premises, flood, fire, power failure, theft and vandalism happen independent of business size.

Information technology problems can cause the loss of vital records and accounts and this can be just as disruptive to large and small businesses alike.

The effects of such a crisis can determine your ability to continue trading.

To avoid unacceptable loss under these circumstances, the recovery of your business must take place within days if not hours. To prepare for such an event requires forethought.

It means you and staff must know what to do, where to go and by when and having the right information and materials readily to hand.

It means having a solution that can be shown to work and has the backing not only of your investors but of your staff.

It means having an effective plan.

Business continuity is about responsible management. It not only makes your business a safer place to work for you and your staff, but contributes to financial security. Start now – you never know what tomorrow will bring.

Planning for the survival of your business in an emergency is essential if you wish to survive it.

Your local authority can help.

The Civil Contingencies Act (CCA) 2004 is designed to enhance the resilience of the United Kingdom in the face of modern day hazards and threats.

The CCA requires organisations such as emergency services, hospitals, primary care trusts, local authorities and other emergency responders to prepare and maintain plans to respond to such emergencies.

It also requires responders to make provision for ensuring that their normal every day activities can be continued even during an acute emergency situation.

The Act also requires local authorities to provide advice and assistance to businesses and voluntary organisations in relation to promoting business continuity management to enhance greater local resilience.

Local authorities across Tyne and Wear have resources in place to promote the benefits of business continuity.

They will provide advice and assistance to businesses and to voluntary organisations.