By Janna Steinthorson, CHRP

In light of the numerous natural disasters happening around the world, I started wondering how prepared my workplace is for an emergency situation. Living in Kamloops, I don’t really have to worry about planning in case of a tsunami or a major earthquake, but I know that is a reality for BC’s coastal regions. But whether or not you work in an earthquake zone, there are genuine threats that workplaces should be prepared for. These include wildfires, flu pandemics and even shooting or hostage situations which have been known to happen on many North American campuses. In unionized organizations, even a strike could be considered an emergency if you aren’t prepared to continue to run essential services.

Some things to consider when preparing your disaster or emergency plans:

1. Consider all possible scenarios for your particular location.  For example, my office is close to train tracks so we have a plan in case a train ever derails. 
2. Develop a plan to allow your payroll, benefits and HR functions to continue operating if you are not able to return to the worksite.
3. You may even want to consult with your lawyer surrounding pay practices during and following a disaster.
4. Discuss and communicate the plan with all employees.

And what do you do after a disaster strikes?

1. Document, document, document! Keep a log of expenses, contact information and a timeline of everything you did.
2. Communicate to your employees and stakeholders.  Let them know anything of importance following the emergency.
3. Keep your senior management visible.
4. Give employees the time and tools they need to get any personal issues in order.
5. Arrange a variety or employees and management to review the plan and determine its effectiveness and identify any gaps.

What about your organization?  What do you have emergency plans for and how would some of these scenarios impact your organization?

Janna Steinthorson, CHRP, is a Human Resources advisor with The City of Kamloops and a member of the Central Interior Advisory Council for BC HRMA.  Janna is a generalist with over six years of progressive Human Resources experience in both unionized and non-unionized environments.