Natural Disasters and Business Continuity Part 3
Building Long-Term Resilience
Author: Andrew Jones, DVM, Veterinary Risk Specialist
The first two articles in this series focused on understanding disaster risks and maintaining operations during emergencies. The final step is building resilience through proactive preparation.
Moving From Response to Preparedness
Preparedness begins long before an emergency occurs, especially when fire and water risks are involved.
Fire prevention efforts should include routine inspection and maintenance of sprinkler systems, smoke alarms, electrical infrastructure, and fire extinguishers. Staff should understand where emergency equipment is located and how to use it appropriately.
Water intrusion risks can often be reduced through facility maintenance. Regular inspections of roofs, windows, drainage systems, and exterior walls may identify vulnerabilities before they become costly problems. Staff should also know the location of water shutoff valves so leaks can be controlled quickly.
Protecting Critical Assets
Physical assets deserve special attention during preparedness planning.
Medication inventories represent both clinical and financial resources. Products should be stored in ways that minimize exposure to environmental hazards. Temperature-sensitive medications require particular consideration because power outages can quickly render them unusable.
Backup generators and alternative power sources can help preserve refrigeration and freezer functions during emergencies. However, these systems should be tested and maintained regularly to ensure they perform when needed.
Controlled substances should be stored in secure containers that meet regulatory requirements. When evaluating storage options, consider both security and fire resistance.
Medical equipment requires similar protection. Anchoring heavy shelving, cabinets, and equipment can reduce losses during earthquakes and severe weather events. Surge protection can help prevent damage caused by lightning strikes and power fluctuations.
Preparing Is Key
Disaster preparedness should not be treated as a one-time project.
Organizations should regularly assess vulnerabilities, update emergency plans, conduct training exercises, and evaluate lessons learned from actual events. As facilities grow and operations change, preparedness measures should evolve as well.
What You Can Do Today
- Test smoke alarms and fire extinguishers regularly.
- Schedule electrical and facility inspections.
- Review roof, window, and drainage maintenance programs.
- Train staff on water and utility shutoff procedures.
- Test generators and backup power systems.
- Protect equipment with surge suppression devices.
- Secure heavy shelves, cabinets, and equipment.
- Conduct annual emergency drills.
- Update disaster plans after exercises or real events.
Protecting Your Business from Natural Disasters
Every decision made before a disaster affects how successfully an organization responds afterward. By understanding risks, maintaining continuity plans, and investing in preparedness, pharmacies and healthcare practices can better protect patients, employees, clients, and the long-term sustainability of their business.
The practices that emerge strongest from disasters are rarely the most fortunate. They are typically the most prepared.
Sources
https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/outdoors/air/what_to_know.htm
https://ready.iowa.gov/disasters-emergencies/floods
https://www.oshaeducationcenter.com
https://www.mtu.edu/geo/community/seismology/learn/earthquake-take-action/
https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/workplace-fires/
https://disaster.unl.edu/businesses-communities/flood-preparation-businesses/
https://www.cisa.gov/audiences/small-and-medium-businesses/secure-your-business