Remembering 9-11, and Protecting Your Business From New Terrorist Threats

It’s unfortunate that as we reflect back on 9-11 and the lives that were sacrificed, we also worry about new terrorist threats allegedly being made near this important 10th anniversary. But one way to conquer worry is to be prepared, and here are some important emergency management planning tips that employers should consider.

But first, a reminder that terrorist attacks have been a way of life in many countries for hundreds of years, and such threats became a reality in the United States as well after 9-11. Terrorist violence can take many forms, making it difficult to prepare for an attack. ABC Company recognizes that while it is not possible to project or consider all of the forms that a terrorist attack might take, it is critical that the company have a complete emergency management plan and that it addresses known types of attacks. The destruction of buildings or the detonation of bombs remains a serious problem that merits careful attention. Persons committing terrorist attacks may be mentally disturbed or consider themselves crusaders for religions or groups of people, and try to absolve themselves of blame for personal injury to victims by remaining detached and impersonal. They often have no personal contact with potential victims.

There are no stereotypes where terrorists are concerned. They are of all nationalities, race, religion, educational backgrounds, and intellect. The identification of an impending terrorist attack is extremely difficult; however, the Office of Homeland Security attempts to forewarn the public by raising the alert level if there is information that an attack may occur. ABC Company’s Emergency Assessment Team is charged with the responsibility for monitoring alert levels, taking appropriate action within the company to alert employees, and taking extra precautions with systems, security, etc. If an attack does occur, company personnel are to follow specific procedures, depending on the type of attack, i.e., bomb, explosion, fire, chemical weapons, etc.

If you suspect that an attack is in process or imminent, it is imperative that you take extreme caution and notify your supervisor and/or a member of senior management immediately. Actions to be taken will be under the direction of the Emergency Assessment Team. Should you be confronted with a threat or warned of an attack, notify your supervisor and/or a member of senior management to assist in evaluating the situation and determining the credibility of the threat. There is no automatic response. The situation must be evaluated. The following should be considered:

1. Call 911.
2. Determine the answer to the following questions:
   • Is this an isolated circumstance?
   • Is the threat specific?
   • Is an attack imminent?
   • Is the threat plausible?
   • Is the caller convincing?
   • Is danger avoidable?
3. Follow the directions issued by the Emergency Management Team.
4. CAUTION — Be aware of any suspicious object and do not touch or attempt to move such an item.
5. Take appropriate action to protect employee and customer property.
6. Explain the situation to other employees in an effort to avoid panic and prepare for an orderly response.
7. Evaluate the possibility of evacuating the premises or decide what other action should be taken to ensure safety.

These tips comes from  the HR Guide to Business Continuity Planning.