Pandemic Preparedness Planning (An example of Business Risk Management)
Many companies regularly review risks to their businesses and update action plans based on the prevailing business environment. Basell Australia considers that avian influenza is now a credible threat to business continuity, and is implementing an action plan to minimise the risks involved.
The World Health Organisation is saying that a new strain of avian influenza has pandemic potential, since it might adapt and become contagious to humans; it is more a question of when, than if, we will be affected by a pandemic. The Australian government is suggesting that businesses should plan for 30-50% staff absence at the peak of a pandemic.
Businesses can put actions in place to reduce the impact of an influenza pandemic. The main areas that can be addressed are:
1. Medical interventions using vaccination and antiviral drugs
2. Interventions to limit or slow the spread of disease, including implementation of hygiene procedures, isolation of suspect cases, limiting non-essential travel, and limiting mass gatherings of people.
3. Procedures to maintain business continuity including discussions with customers and suppliers, identification of business-critical tasks and positions, and making arrangements for key personnel to work from home.
4. Communication with all key stakeholders.