When the power goes out

Power outages can disrupt operations, decrease revenue, and cause safety and health problems. Short-term and long-term preparation can help minimize the effects. These tips can help you prepare and deal with power outages.

Prepare short-term

• Do assessments for potential hazards. Basic safety measures like making sure the area is clear of items that people can trip over will make a big difference.
• Check emergency lighting to make sure it’s in good working order.
• Know where flashlights, emergency kits, and other safety items are kept. 
• Keep emergency phone numbers at hand.
• Know the emergency plan for exiting the building.

During the outage

• Turn off and disconnect equipment, programs, and systems.
• Don’t stand next to machinery that could come back on unexpectedly.
• Stop as soon as lights go out if using potentially dangerous equipment like a forklift.
• Follow protocols for fires, earthquakes, and other emergencies to help employees and customers exit the building safely.

Long-term planning

• Develop a business continuity plan.
• Ensure everyone knows about the plan and is trained in it.
• Identify critical operations that need power, such as computer systems and machinery, and take steps to protect them.
• Set up contingency plans, such as surge protectors, alternate locations for data and operations, and backup programs and systems.

Resources

• Plan for emergencies | SAIF
• Prepare your business for power outages | PGE 
• Business Continuity Plan | Ready.gov 

For more on this topic, visit saif.com/emergencies.