What is Emergency Response Protocol (and Why Does Your Business Need One)?

what is an emergency response protocol

For any company, having an Emergency Response Protocol (ERP) means having a plan for your business when an emergency strikes. In the event of such an emergency, ensuring continuity for your business is the top priority. It may be a cliché to say so, but no business owner should leave it to chance or wait until after a disaster happens before coming up with a plan. Knowing what to do and when after a natural or manmade disaster should be an essential part of every business owner’s business plan.

The Impact of Disasters on Small Businesses

Emergencies and disasters of any size that impacts your business can lead to a permanent closing. It’s not a scare tactic. It’s a statistic. The fact is small businesses are actually more vulnerable to natural disasters. FEMA’s oft-cited business failure rate of near 40% after a natural disaster is one such sobering statistic. Add another 25% to those businesses that do open after a disaster only to end up shutting their doors within two years. That’s a staggering 2 out of 3 small businesses gone from a community.

No one wants to lose their business and no one wants to see Main Street boarded up following a disaster. Small businesses are vital to the economic health of every community. It’s not just important for a company’s profitability and its employees, but the overall community for businesses to remain open and continue to thrive. Yet, for many small businesses and companies, it is difficult to find the time or resources to develop an ERP. In most instances, the plan is simply relying on insurance to aid in rebounding from a natural or manmade disaster. Insurance may cover some or a majority of the losses, but it will not ensure the continuity of your business.

Why Your Business Needs an ERP in Place

That’s why every business should have an ERP in place. ERP is a strategic plan for businesses to successfully respond to manmade and natural disasters. The design and execution of an emergency response protocol means creating a working model that a business can implement when an emergency situation arises. Having one in place can ensure business continuity. Businesses large and small should conduct risk assessments that are shaped by the degree and complexity of their business operations beforehand.

Contract with an ERP Partner

The reality is, developing an ERP and having one in place can be limited by many constraints. The resources, assets and skilled personnel on staff with the expertise to effectuate an ERP are often beyond the reach of many businesses. Therefore, contracting with a full-service restoration company can be of great benefit to you and your business. Partnering with a restoration company to develop a plan ensures that your business is disaster-ready. Every detail and contingency is laid out in advance that best fits your business’ needs. Having the necessary data and documentation stored securely in advance allows for protocols to be implemented in a timely manner—which is as soon as possible to ensure continuity. If a disaster occurs, the restoration company will immediately take action to employ the protocols—the personnel, equipment, and devices as defined by your ERP.

The Critical Role of Clear Communication and Coordination

Just as importantly, effective communication plays a large role when an ERP has to be implemented. One of the biggest challenges for businesses during a disaster is keeping informed of events as they unfold. Depending on the circumstances of the disaster, whether it is impending or without warning, the restoration company plays a key role coordinating with you, emergency personnel and response teams before, during, and after the disaster.

Preparation is Key

Preparing before an emergency plays a vital role in the long-term success of your company. Having an ERP in place can greatly ensure your business’s continuity should a disaster happen. Partnering with a full-service restoration company to manage the crisis allows for professionals to prioritize the respective mitigation, recovery, and restoration to ensure your company is up and open for business with the least amount of disruption to you, your employees and the community as a whole.

Choosing a Restoration Company with 24/7 Emergency Services

Octagon Cleaning & Restoration is a full-service restoration company that specializes in ERP planning and implementation. When it comes to persevering through a disaster, don’t leave your business to chance. Octagon is a certified IICRC firm, OSHA 10 certified, and EPA RRP certified company that will work with you to see the continuity of your business through the most difficult times. Contact us to get started with an ERP for your business today!