At Handex, the health and safety of all our employees are primary concerns. We have several Emergency Response Plans in place, but for this post, we will focus on our plan for hurricanes, strong storms, snow storms, tornadoes and other major storms. This plan follows the recommended action timeline for pending severe weather systems.
When an event such as these occurs, we make sure to notify all Handex employees via group email and/or text so they are aware that a response plan is taking place. If the emergency is expected during the weekend or on a company holiday, designated employees will be contacted to return to the office to secure equipment if needed and safe to do so.
A storm watch is put in place when current conditions make it possible for a storm to develop within the next 48 hours. So 48 hours before the expected impact, it is recommended that an organization take the following steps:
A storm warning is put in place when current conditions make it probable for a storm to develop in the next 36 hours. So 36 hours before the expected impact, at a minimum, an organization should take the following steps:
Having an effective Emergency Response Plan in place is a vital part of your organization's health and safety program. Your plan should have written documentation and be displayed in an area that is accessible to all staff and employees.
Handex would like to take this opportunity to remind our readers, clients and friends how to prepare and stay safe during a hurricane or severe weather event. The unexpected can happen in the blink of an eye, so it is important to be prepared and have a plan.