Construction Law

Planning for Disasters in Construction Part 1 featured image

Planning for Disasters in Construction Part 1

You never know when disaster will strike. The impact that a catastrophic event such as a fire or hurricane can jeopardize employee safety and have a crippling effect on the health of a business. Unforeseen disasters can also expose contractors to liabilities that can be devastating to their business operations and, in some cases, can lead to a business shutting down for good.

With recent hurricane events affecting the United States, it’s obvious no state is disaster proof. Because our St. Petersburg construction lawyers are deeply concerned about the construction industry, we hope that all construction businesses are prepared to handle any natural disaster.

What is the Goal of Disaster Planning?

The ultimate goal of disaster planning is to ensure that your business will continue to run as smooth as possible during a major crisis. Managing the business well during a crisis means placing employee safety as your top priority. It also requires everyone to have well-defined roles and responsibilities and a coordinated emergency communications plan in place. Another goal of disaster planning is to resume normal business operations as soon as possible. The quicker a business recovers the better for all involved. When major disasters occur, damages and losses are very likely. The best way to recover your losses is to document your property on an ongoing basis before a crisis ever happens. This will make working with your insurance provided a less stressful process.

Which Areas Are at a Greater Risk?

Damage and loss are inevitable during extreme disasters. The areas that are at a greater risk include:

  • Email and databases
  • Records and materials
  • Client loss or miscommunication
  • Inventory and project management systems
  • Loss of access to operational facilities

A risk assessment should also be performed to identify potential hazards and immediate measures should be taken if the disaster does occur. While assessing risks, you will have to consider scenarios that could cause injuries, risks to your buildings, technology systems, machinery, materials, and finished goods.

If you would like to speak with a St. Petersburg construction attorney, please contact us at 813.579.3278, or submit our contact request form.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.