Different hazards and how they can impact your organisation
Pandemic disease
Businesses need to play a role in reducing employees' health and safety risks, as well as maintaining essential operations. Absentee staff could have a detrimental effect on business continuity.
Utility failure
Utility failures in general are common and could have a catastrophic impact on a business’ ability to maintain services. When constructing your business continuity plan, consider how you would cope without water, gas and electricity.
Save these contact numbers for the event of a utility emergency.
Thames Water - 0800 714 614
National Gas Emergency Service - 0800 111 999
UK Power Networks - 105
Flooding
The River Thames forms the southern boundary of Westminster, from Temple to Chelsea Bridge. London is protected by the Thames Barrier as well as the river walls, but fluvial and tidal flooding events can still occur.
Surface water flooding can also occur across much of the borough. Basement properties are particularly vulnerable to flooding. Flood events may have a serious impact on utilities and public transport.
Visit the Environment Agency for further information.
Extreme weather - drought, heatwave, storms and gales, low temperatures and heavy snow are substantial hazards. They could affect the provision of water and electricity, transport infrastructure and highways, telecommunication links and the ability to maintain staffing levels.
For weather related advice, regularly check for updates on the Met Office and Public Health England websites.
Terrorism
To report an imminent threat call 999 or the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.
If you’re caught up in an incident you should:
- run, to a place of safety
- hide, if you can’t run
- tell, the police by calling 999
The terror threat level for international terrorism remains at 'severe', meaning an attack is highly likely. Businesses can reduce the risks to themselves, their employees and customers by remaining vigilant and having good security measures in place.
Advice on business security measures can be obtained at National Counter Terrorism Security Office.
For more information on risks across London, see the London Risk Register. Use your own judgment when deciding the most relevant threats to your business.