The 2024 hurricane season has, so far, been gentler than predicted. A word of caution here though. The season is far from over and buildings like offices, schools, and businesses still face significant risks. Hurricanes not only wreak destructive havoc on structures, but can disrupt operations, and pose threats to the safety of occupants. Before you give up, we’ve got some better news. Commercial building and facilities managers in hurricane zones can reduce hurricane induced damage and injuries with an emergency action plan.
Here, we’re sharing an overview of the commercial risks and the steps to take to be better prepared. We’ll also share how to get help creating or updating your disaster preparedness plan from certified professional restoration experts like Joe Johnson.
The Risks to Buildings
This hurricane season presents a serious risk to buildings, particularly in areas prone to storm activity. Offices, schools, and businesses are not immune to the devastating effects of hurricanes. Intense winds, storm surges, and torrential rainfall can cause structural damage, flooding, and power outages. In the storm’s aftermath, mold sets in quickly in waterlogged areas. During a severe storm itself, flying debris and falling trees pose immediate dangers not only to the integrity of buildings but also to the safety of the people inside.
Storm Risk to Employees
Employees are exposed to danger after severe weather as well as during it. The Texas Department of Insurance published an article explaining, “After a natural disaster, workers responding to cleanup and recovery efforts are often exposed to various hazards from fallen trees, downed power lines, mold, and more.”
The Importance of Having an Emergency Action Plan
By prioritizing disaster preparedness planning, commercial building and facilities managers can diminish possible damage and safeguard the occupants. Developing a broad disaster preparedness plan, similar to those crafted by experts like Joe Johnson, is essential.
Here are 5 steps to take to strengthen preparedness.
Make a Risk Assessment
Conduct a thorough risk assessment of the building to identify vulnerabilities and potential areas of concern. In this assessment, consider factors such as location, construction materials, and prior storm history. Understand the risks specific to the area for a more informed disaster plan.
Emergency Protocols
Establish clear emergency protocols that outline procedures for evacuation, communication, and sheltering-in-place. Communicate your procedures to all occupants, so everyone knows how to respond in case of a hurricane or severe weather.
Building Inspection and Maintenance
Regularly inspect and maintain the building to ensure it is structurally sound and prepared for extreme weather events. This includes checking the integrity of windows, doors, roofs, and other vulnerable areas. Putting maintenance schedules in place and tackling any issues promptly will reduce the risk of storm-related damage.
Backup Power and Communication
Invest in backup power systems, such as generators, to maintain essential operations during power outages. Establish alternative communication channels for seamless coordination and information distribution between building management, occupants, emergency and restoration services.
Partnering with Certified Professional Restoration Experts
Collaborating with certified professional restoration experts, like Joe Johnson, will get you back to business faster, with reliable communication and response time along the way. You can make informed decisions for your company or organization. Our experts have the knowledge, experience, and resources necessary to handle the aftermath of a hurricane and other disasters effectively. From water extraction and mold remediation to structural repairs and debris removal, their expertise ensures a swift and thorough restoration process.
The Role of Certified Professional Restoration Experts
IICRC Certified Commercial Restoration professionals bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, making them invaluable during the aftermath of a hurricane. Here are some things you can expect from the Commercial Restoration Pros:
A Swift Response in an Emergency
We understand the urgency of post-hurricane restoration and will respond quickly to reduce further damage and downtime. We are committed to thorough, fast, effective restoration, so your organization can resume operations sooner.
Comprehensive Restoration
Commercial Restoration Pros have the skills and equipment necessary to address various areas of post-hurricane damage, including structural repairs, water extraction, mold remediation, and debris removal. Our thorough approach ensures that buildings are restored to a safe and functional state.
Compliance with Regulations
Our technicians are IICRC Certified and are well-versed in industry regulations and guidelines. They follow the necessary protocols and standards, ensuring the restoration process meets all requirements.
Insurance Claims Assistance
Navigating insurance claims can be complex and time-consuming. Commercial Restoration Pros can help building managers document damages, estimate costs within 72 hours. We can even help you negotiate with insurance providers and streamline the claims process.
Risk Reduction Begins with an Emergency Action Plan
Commercial building and facilities managers must take proactive steps against significant damage risks to buildings like offices, schools, and businesses. By developing an emergency action plan and partnering with Commercial Restoration Pros’ Joe Johnson, they can reduce damage to their organization. Prioritizing preparedness today will safeguard the safety of occupants and minimize the impact of future storms.