Given the threat of coronaviruses, you must be prepared for various unexpected scenarios. Here are some recommendations to ensure the continuity of your business.
- Communicate critical risks and events to all employees. The aim is to raise awareness of the virus and disease and prevent misinformation.
- Review established processes and identify all operational areas and locations (especially those that are more vulnerable and at higher risk).
- Identify the person(s) who will oversee the coronavirus-related business continuity measures.
- Identify critical activities and activities that may be interrupted or limited to the minimum operational level.
- Reduce activities that require direct contact between employees.
- Provide personal protective equipment for all employees as and when necessary.
- Develop a communication plan to inform employees in the areas of infection measures, personal hygiene and usage of protective equipment, food safety, hand washing and personal distancing.
- Review locations that can be used to ensure business continuity.
- Use a remote working strategy (make sure you have the appropriate equipment).
- Identify your key suppliers and consider the risks in the supply chain.
- Monitor current coronavirus-related developments, keep employees and other stakeholders updated and informed, and take appropriate action.
- Protect and support employees’ wellbeing.
- Assess the effectiveness of the measures on and adapt them based on the current situation as necessary.
- Minimize social and economic impact through multisectoral partnerships.
- Implement a comprehensive risk communication strategy and keep employees regularly informed of the evolution of the outbreak, preventive and protective measures for employees, and measures taken to limit risks.
- Identify the key actors (organizations, health professionals, communities), gather their contact information and establish partnerships with them.
- Actively monitor, detect, isolate and deal with any infection, preventing further spread of coronavirus pandemic.
General business continuity recommendations for coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (PDF)
Main sources: WHO and PECB