Weather-related delays are estimated to cost the U.S. construction industry $4 billion per year, according to For Construction Pros. Construction companies play a crucial role in communities after a damaging disaster hits, so it is important your company can bounce back quickly.
The following steps can help ensure you company is prepared when disaster strikes.
- Have a proactive plan. Assign a team to create a disaster readiness plan that includes elements such as strategies to address potential risks on job sites; defined roles and tasks to complete before, during and after a disaster; evacuation plans and routes for each site; location and use of emergency equipment; communication protocols; and contact information for key individuals and emergency response teams. Reevaluate your plan each year to see whether it needs an update.
- Batten down the hatches. If you work in a storm-prone area, think about investing in an indoor storage facility where you can move machines and other expensive items for protection. Otherwise, have a plan in place to secure anything that remains on location. You also can board up windows, sandbag perimeters and cover materials with tarps.
- Equip your company to recover quickly. Consider having portable pumps handy if you operate in hurricane-prone locations and install them before a storm arrives to get a jump on water removal. Supply job sites with portable generators and fuel to keep them running.
- Communicate. Hold a disaster planning meeting with your crew at least once a year—or at the start of various disaster “seasons,” such as hurricane, wildfire or tornado seasons. Make sure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities, especially evacuation procedures and communication protocols. Have practice drills and encourage questions and feedback regarding your plan.
