Climate change is hardly just some abstract concept. Increasingly, it’s affecting our daily lives, and seldom for the better. One of the most obvious ways in which climate change affects us is through the growing rate of climate-related disasters, from flooding to extreme temperatures.
While these disasters can impact any one of us as we go about our daily lives, they may be especially relevant to facilities managers. In fact, one of the greatest challenges facing facilities managers today is keeping their buildings and operations safe and resilient, even against climatological extremes.
How Can Facilities Managers Prepare for Climate-Related Catastrophes?
There are a number of steps facilities managers can take to ensure readiness.
Start with an Assessment
The first step is conducting a basic risk assessment. Climate-related risks will vary by region and geography, and a comprehensive analysis can help facilities managers identify their vulnerabilities: Wildfires, extreme heat, floods, hurricanes, etc.
Create and Distribute an Emergency Response Plan
Every business should have an emergency response plan that specifically addresses their most prominent risks. This plan should detail things like evacuation routes and designated safe areas. Make sure this plan is made readily available to everyone within the organization.
Train Your Team on Emergency Procedures
Another important step is ensuring that your team members know how to respond in the event of a disaster. Regular training sessions and drills can ensure that everyone is aware of their role in the emergency, including communication protocols.
Invest in Resilient Infrastructure
There are a number of ways in which facilities managers can augment their existing infrastructure, strengthening its resilience in the face of climate-related peril. Consider upgrades to flood barriers, reinforced roofs, and fire-resistant materials. Backup systems, such as generators and renewable energy sources, can also be helpful in times of crisis.
Plan for Supply Chain Management
A catastrophic disruption to your supply chain can significantly impede your business productivity, making it harder to meet your obligations to customers and clients. Plan in advance for potential disruptions by establishing relationships with multiple suppliers, allowing you to pivot if one supply chain gets cut off.
Focus on Sustainability
Sustainable practices don’t just help you meet your environmental goals. They can also lead to greater resilience in times of disaster. For example, green energy sources or weather management systems can make it easier to get back on your feet following a flood or storm.
Integrate Technology
Advanced technology can help you maintain readiness, allowing you to respond quickly to changes in the weather. Even using automated weather alerts can help your team members to remain vigilant.
Have More Questions About Preparing for Climate Risks?
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Learn MoreEnsure that Your Facilities are Ready for Anything
Climate change has brought a new kind of unpredictability to facilities management. Thankfully, there are simple steps that can help mediate uncertainty and limit risk. At Corovan, we are always happy to talk with facilities managers about their logistical concerns, including extreme weather considerations. Reach out to our team whenever you’d like!