Performance objectives are milestones on the path to achieving your preparedness program’s goals. Objectives should be developed for all aspects of the program. Include hazard prevention/deterrence, risk mitigation, emergency response and business continuity.
Consider goals and objectives for managing risk, investing in resources, establishing capabilities through training and exercising and complying with regulations. Consider both short-term objectives for the development of the program and long-term objectives that may require more significant planning or investment.
Examples of short-term objectives include:
- Establish a program committee that includes wide participation from your company.
- Assess your current preparedness program.
- Reach out to public emergency services and regulators. Ask for input.
- Conduct a risk assessment to identify threat and hazard scenarios and significant loss potential.
- Conduct a business impact analysis to identify the operational and financial impacts from an interruption or disruption of your business.
- Identify opportunities for hazard prevention and risk mitigation.
- Protect the safety of your employees by developing evacuation, sheltering and lockdown plans. Conduct employee training and drills.
- Install an emergency generator to power the data center during a power outage.
- Develop plans to equip and configure Plant B as a backup for Plant A.
Examples of long-term objectives include:
- Upgrading the protection of the facility by installing a fire sprinkler system.
- Phasing out the use of highly toxic or flammable chemicals.
- Conducting a full-scale exercise of our emergency management program involving public emergency services.
- Shifting some or all operations to a location that is less susceptible to natural hazards such as earthquakes, hurricanes or flooding.
- Building a culture of preparedness in the workplace and encourage employees to have a plan at home.
Objectives should be tangible and measurable. When the program is reviewed (see Program Improvement) determine whether objectives have been achieved.