Should I be planning for blackouts in my business?

It has been reported that there could be power blackouts this winter and whilst this may be sensationalised headlines if we have learnt anything from the last two years it is to expect the unexpected and plan for every possibility!

The steps you should consider are as follows:

1. What is your contingency plan in the event that you cannot operate due to lack of power?

2. What are the risks of remaining in the workplace if there is no power?

3. How will you deal with the situation if schools and nurseries are closed due to power cuts?

4. Do you have lay off or short time working clauses in your employment contracts? This is important if you must close and send staff home.

5. What will you do about employees who work from home and who may be affected by power cuts?

6. Check your insurance cover in the event of lost revenue etc due to power cuts.

If you do just one thing, I strongly recommend that you take some time to put in place a plan and clearly communicate to employees what you intend to do if there are power cuts during working time.  

Photo by Andrey Metelev on Unsplash