The key to hurricane preparation and response is adopting policies and procedures before a crisis occurs in order to minimize confusion in a few key areas, such as employee communications, requirements, and pay issues, said David Barron of Epstein Becker Green Wickliff and Hall, Houston TX.
When an hurricane strikes, employees' first instinct is to protect their families and property. However, companies often must have a group on the job to protect the company’s assets. Companies should identify critical personnel and explain their requirements in the event of an emergency. They deserve advance notice of what will be expected of them during a crisis, and what plans they should make to meet both their employer’s expectations and the needs of their families, Barron said.
Pay issues are another important element to consider before an emergency occurs. "Making quick decisions in the heat-of-the moment is a recipe for disaster from both an operational and employee morale standpoint," Barron said.