Tornadoes, heavy rains, flooding, high winds, ice storms, blizzards and heavy snow have caused several deaths, widespread damage and devastation over the years. When a disaster strikes a business, regardless of whether it emanates from natural or human causes, there will likely be significant human resource issues that must be addressed and often very quickly. In the aftermath of any disaster, every business must make the decision of whether and how to move forward. A business’ employees are a critical component of any recovery plan. If a business fails to manage them well and meet their needs, other recovery efforts may be futile. Even if the employer ultimately decides a facility or the entire business cannot reopen, it will be essential to respond to employee concerns to avoid or minimize the risk of serious legal liability.
Sound disaster planning requires for human resource issues to be recognized first and in doing so adequate attention must be given to both preventive and remedial. The goals are: