The winter weather is always exciting, and no one seems to know just how bad it’s going to get for us here in Georgia. If you haven’t already thought about it, now is a great time to review your inclement weather plans and make sure your business is ready.
Preparing Your Business for a Snowstorm: Essential Tips
As winter approaches, it’s crucial for businesses to be prepared for potential snowstorms. Here are some key recommendations to ensure your operations run smoothly and safely:
- Develop a Snowstorm Plan: Outline procedures for communication, employee safety, and business continuity. Ensure all team members are aware of their roles and responsibilities. Know which employees should not report, and which ones need to report or report remotely. Verify each user has remote access to continue job function.
- Test infrastructure: Test UPS equipment for failure and test backup internet lines for failover. If you have internal servers that handle email or critical systems, consider having cloud-based backups in case of an extended outage.
- Remote Work Readiness: Equip your team with the tools and resources needed to work remotely if travel becomes hazardous. Ensure all critical systems can be accessed securely from home.
- Communication is Key: Establish a clear communication plan to keep employees informed about weather updates, office closures, and safety protocols. Use multiple channels like email, text messages, and internal communication platforms. If capable, allow users to take home VoIP phones or company laptops for continued use.
- Check Your Infrastructure: Inspect your building’s heating systems, insulation, and backup power sources. Ensure that your IT infrastructure is robust enough to handle increased consistent remote access. Most UPS batteries can help you survive short outages, but longer interruptions in service will outlast your UPS.
- Review Insurance Policies: Make sure your business insurance covers snowstorm – related damages and disruptions. Understand the claims process and keep necessary documentation handy.
- Employee Safety First: Encourage employees to stay home if conditions are unsafe.
Provide guidelines on how to stay safe during a snowstorm, both at home and while commuting.
By taking these proactive steps, your business can minimize disruptions and ensure the safety of your employees. Stay safe and prepared this winter season! Any questions on the above or for more instructions on how to stay productive in a remote environment, reach out.