Three key points of vulnerability during a disruption

Physical Security risks can increase following a natural disaster or other disruption to normal business conditions.

Many companies look outside the organization for business continuity services in order to manage the risks that can be brought about by disruptions. In most cases, the first step is to conduct a business continuity analysis at the facility(s) in order to identify the vulnerabilities which may not necessarily pose high risks under normal conditions, but could during a business disruption.

Protecting The Perimeter of Facilities 

Facilities often have large areas that are not monitored on a consistent basis. From our experience it is not unusual to find companies that have inadequate fence systems that were poorly designed or maintained, and in need of repair. These deficiencies coupled with inadequate lighting can make the perimeters vulnerable to intrusions which could lead to theft, assault and other criminal activity on the property. An in-depth analysis of the facility to develop a physical security management strategy is an essential component of any business continuity plan (BCP).

Business Operations

Businesses have to operate everyday with various uncertainties relative to energy, raw materials, the supply chain, production and even severe weather. A business continuity plan is critical to maintain consistent operations during the most challenging times. By forecasting difficulties and creating countermeasures to disruptions,  a business leader has the confidence to immediately implement their BCP and overcome bottlenecks that arise.

Points of Entry

Many businesses also leave the ingress/egress points where employees and customers enter and exit the building relatively exposed in order to allow freedom of movement during business hours. There may be the appearance of security measures in place such as a guard posted in a gatehouse, or a receptionist at the main lobby desk, but not necessarily measures that are capable of responding to a threat by a person looking to cause harm. Business continuity planning can identify these vulnerabilities and put safeguards in place while making minimal operational sacrifices.

The investments needed to protect a company's employees, products, property and its assets are core to any business. When a disruption occurs, such as a natural disaster or a strike, the risk escalates substantially. Implementation of a pro-active protection strategy focused on physical risk management goes beyond simple security to protection that is needed to ensure that the business is able to sustain a safe and productive work environment during a critical event to the fullest extent possible.