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5 steps to develop and activate a flood emergency response plan

06/2022
flooded urban

Floods are more common and cause more destruction than any other natural disaster in the world. They can happen over a period of days or a matter of minutes – even in areas that are not considered a flood risk. That’s why, when you’re thinking about your business continuity plans, it’s wise to include a Flood Emergency Response Plan that can provide the resources you need, protect your employees, save time, reduce property damage, and get your business up and running again if a flood occurs. These five steps can help you get started.

 

  1. Anticipate the potential sources and impact of a flood.

    Consider your local climate and potential weather events, including what time of year floods might occur. Find out whether there are upstream controls such as levees or dams in the area; the likely extent of any flooding (rate of rise, depth, how long water levels will remain elevated); and how closed roads or bridges might affect your business. Understand the drainage systems within your facility.

  2. Implement preventive measures ahead of time.

    To prepare your business to survive a flood, consider storing critical records and key equipment in higher locations. Look into installing protective walls, waterproof closures, and backup systems such as non-electric water pumps, diesel generators, and battery-powered lighting in your facilities. Install check valves where utility and sewer lines enter the building, and move vulnerable equipment, raw materials, and finished products away from doors and windows.

  3. Establish an emergency response team.

    The team should have clearly defined responsibilities and levels of authority. They can then:
     

    • Identify how and from whom you’ll get updated flood information (Department of Irrigation and Drainage Malaysia, Department of Occupational Safety and Health, National Disaster Management Agency Malaysia).
    • Determine which business functions are most critical and need resources quickly.
    • Maintain contact lists of key personnel, suppliers, and customers.
    • Locate facility site and floor plans that show emergency shutoffs, utilities, fire prevention systems, etc.

     

  1. Establish emergency response procedures.

    Work with your emergency response team to create an emergency response plan to:
     

    • Communicate with employees, customers, suppliers, government officials, and the media about how the flood is affecting your business.
    • Protect your employees from contaminated flood waters and electrical hazards. If a flood occurs, insist that they wear sturdy rubber boots, waterproof gloves, and respiratory protection, and do not assume any part of a flooded electrical system is safe. 
    • Make sure the building is safe. If a flood occurs, contact professionals to verify your building’s stability before entering, then inspect all equipment for damage. Remove wet, porous materials and replace damaged heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC), water heaters, controls, gas valves, and electrical wiring.
    • Shut down equipment, utilities, and evacuate the facility.
    • Educate your employees to make sure they understand what to do if a flood occurs; provide information about security, medical emergencies, and relocation, with regular training updates.
  2. Test and update your plan.

    Run through your emergency procedures before a flood happens to ensure a speedy, safe, and proper response. If you do experience a flood, update your Flood Emergency Response Plan with lessons you’ve learned.

     

You can also protect your business with flood insurance. Your insurer may be able to help you put a plan in place to protect against a potential flood.

 

The benefit(s) payable under eligible certificate/policy/product is(are) protected by PIDM up to limits. Please refer to PIDM’s TIPS brochure or contact Chubb Insurance Malaysia Berhad or PIDM (visit www.pidm.gov.my)

 

 This content is brought to you by Chubb Insurance Malaysia Berhad, Registration No. 197001000564 (9827-A) (“Chubb”) as a convenience to readers and is not intended to constitute advice or recommendations upon which a reader may rely. Any references to insurance cover are general in nature only and may not suit your particular circumstances. Chubb does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs and any insurance cover referred to is subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions set out in the relevant policy wording. Please obtain and read carefully the relevant insurance policy before deciding to acquire any insurance product. A policy wording can be obtained at www.chubb.com/my, through your broker or by contacting any of the Chubb offices or Chubb agents. Chubb makes no warranty or guarantee about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of this content. It is the responsibility of the reader to evaluate the quality and accuracy of material herein.

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