Clark says businesses must have an emergency action plan that is communicated well across the team
Transport and logistics owners and operators must be proactive during this severe weather period by revisiting their emergency action plans, National Transport Insurance (NTI) states.
NTI CEO Tony Clark says since extreme weather can escalate quickly it is imperative to have an action plan and to be familiar with it.
“Have a plan and make sure it’s communicated well across your people, so that when it comes time for action, it can be implemented without hesitation,” Clark recommends.
“We see severe weather interrupt business productivity through destruction of transport infrastructure, vehicles, loss of freight and vehicles or whole businesses flooded.
“Staying abreast of severe weather warnings like storm conditions and fire hazards, across areas of operation, can make all the difference.
“There are some great online tools and resources for keeping informed during weather events.”
For those on the road or in transit, NTI suggests keeping the radio on for the latest warnings and ensuring there is a safe action plan if driving or working in high risk areas.
“This may include, but not be limited to: broken-up roads, bushfires, sever rain and flooding,” NTI states.
“In the event of continuing to operate in uncertain weather conditions, NTI recommends:
- arranging for regular, up to date emergency reports from a reliable source
- making an alternative drive/travel plan which includes at least one detour to your destination
- accounting for additional travel time if transporting time sensitive goods
- devising an evacuation strategy for your people, equipment and stock.”
NTI encourages transport business owners to talk to their insurance broker regularly to make sure they have adequate cover.
It recommends customers or intermediaries needing to make a claim due to a weather event to contact NTI via the NTI Accident Assist (1800 NTI NOW) service.