CRISIS MANAGEMENT…Are You Prepared?
The very word Crisis can strike fear to Management, Presidents and Owners of Companies. We often see on TV or read in the paper about the various Crisis that companies sometime find themselves in. Oil spills, worker seriously injured on the job, earthquake, computer system failure, strikes, bribery, mergers, etc…
The definition of Crisis is the turning point, a decisive or critical moment. Crisis Management Programs or Plans help companies prepare for the potential crisis that they may face. It is an opportunity to be proactive and prepare all employees for emergency situations that may potentially happen. Whether you’re a construction company, manufacturing plant, retail store or a professional service company, you need to outline the potential negative situations that can happen to you and your organization.
Each Crisis Management Plan at a minimum should outline the following:
- The purpose of the plan – (Why the plan exists)
- Management roles in a Crisis – (Spokes person, Legal Council, Public relations)
- Definition of a Crisis – (Natural disaster, Labor relations, Jobsite Ops, Environmental accidents, Employee safety, Customer relations, etc.)
- Do’s & Don’ts in a Crisis – (Do talk, Do tell the truth, Don’t get into liability issues, Don’t state anything “off the record”, etc)
- Potential info the media may ask or look for – (Preparation is key )
Remember to be proactive and prepare for worst case situations. When everyone knows their role in a Crisis, the situation flows a bit smoother. A little preparation up front may save you time, money and branding in the end. It is never too late to prepare yourself and your company for a potential Crisis.
G&G Risk Management Consultants, Inc. provides many services including safety, training, risk assessment, program development or enhancement. Check us out at www.ggrmc.com for more information or call us at 925-778-9624.
Written by:
Edwin Garcia, President/CEO