Plan for the worst

An emergency preparedness plan looks at what hazards might arise out of an emergency such as a fire. For example, in the case of Myson Radiators, the fire caused additional chemical spillage which needed dealing with.

A good plan would have a map of the premises, showing what chemicals are stored, where they are located and where they might end up in the event of a spillage i.e. drainage system.

The plan would also list whom to call and what to do.

A well prepared Company would leave this plan in a safe place and hand it over to the emergency services upon arrival.

A business continuity plan is just that. It looks at how a business will stay afloat after an emergency or other abnormal event.

Some companies keep empty offices and warehouses just in case they might need them to get back into operation quickly.

This can be a costly option so it is also worth investigating partnership agreements with other businesses or if your company is a desk based operation then consider setting employees up at their homes for the short term.

No one expects a fire, but with a bit of forethought and prior preparation, these plans really can help businesses survive the worst.