A Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) is a written and tested plan that will limit injury to your employees and business and provide an outline that will allow your organization to return to operational capacity as quickly as possible.
In the Tampa Bay Business Journal 2008 Hurricane Guide, Betti Johnson, Principal Planner for the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council and respected advocate for regional disaster preparedness, identifies 10 things to remember in developing a Continuity of Operation Plan (COOP):
1. Conduct a vulnerability assessment. Identify the numerous hazards from events that could impact your business.
2. Protect your most valuable assets – your employees. A prepared workforce plays a vital role in the continuity of business in times of an emergency. Make sure they are prepared and aware of your expectations before, during and after a disaster.
3.Review your insurance policy every six months with your provider to make sure you can provide protection for your facilities, employees, clients, customers, and operations.
4. Protect your vital documents.
5. Back up your data off-site.
6. Protect your facilities. Consult with a commercial contractor or government mitigation specialist to ensure your facility is as hardened as possible.
7. Identify the critical functions to keep your business operational.
8. Create a Communications Plan.
9. Identify alternate vendors and suppliers and a possible alternate facility.
10. Exercise the plan. A plan that has not been tested will only be as good as the shortcomings in it.
Sample templates and additional advice in developing a COOP can be accessed on the following:
For and abbreviated simple 2 page guidleine: http://uwof.org
For a full workbook: Download the COOP Manual
