Professional Preparedness

Professional preparedness means being aware of the resources that are available for an emergency in the workplace, familiarizing oneself with an organizations business continuity plan and communications structure within the facility, having personal emergency items and contacts on hand, and knowing both individual and the organizations role in responding to an emergency. Training programs are available for professionals to be educated in emergency management and preparedness through the Justice Institute of BC and the Provincial Emergency Program.

After a disruption has occurred, recovery and restoration should follow in a timely manner. Organizations need to be prepared for a decrease in staff, resources, and infrastructure after an emergency. However, with sufficient preparation an organization will be much better equipped to adapt to these shortages.

In order for a professional to be truly prepared for an emergency situation in the workplace they must also be prepared at home. Planning various transportation routes to the workplace is vital in the event that transportation infrastructure is impacted. Ensuring that all members of the household are prepared to care for themselves in an emergency is another way to increase the likelihood of being able to make it into the workplace.

Regular training and exercises within an organization is fundamental to ensuring all staff are trained and informed on what steps to take in the event of an emergency, who is responsible for contacting staff, and how individual roles will be played out. Cross-training is also a valuable strategy in preparing an organization for an emergency in the event that key management staff are unavailable.

For additional information visit Emergency Management Courses section and the Links page under Professional Preparedness.