We are facing a changed reality where previous security and predictability have been replaced by increased uncertainty and complexity. The societal situation makes it increasingly important to act preventively and increase crisis preparedness, regardless of the sector. Here you get expert tips on how to best prepare your organization for possible crisis situations.
Traditionally, it has been difficult to mentally prepare for future crises. Conducting risk analyses at the organisational level has often been associated with a certain amount of resistance.
– If life is perceived as relatively safe and predictable for a long time, then we will find it difficult to put ourselves in the shoes of various worst-case scenarios. It's natural to think that the worst doesn't happen to us, says Mattias Klawitter, Psychologist and Crisis Coordinator at Falck.
But with recent developments, both in Sweden and internationally, unexpected events and crises have become more frequent. Societal developments and the ongoing NATO application make it crucial to consider heightened preparedness.
– This affects us all. We need to have increased readiness for major events that not only involve threats and violence against Swedish interests within or outside the country's borders but can also be the result of difficult-to-detect external influences, causing extensive disruptions in operations, IT systems, or power supply, says Mattias Klawitter.
Shared responsibility in the work environment: Update your routines
– From pandemics and international conflict to increasing terrorist threats and gang crime - the modern workplace must be prepared for different scenarios. Conduct thorough risk analyses to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities specific to your organisation, says Mattias Klawitter.
If you want to review your crisis preparedness, the first step is to make a risk assessment. The goal here is to map the risks that your particular business may face. Then update and adapt your existing crisis plans and routines to include any risks you have identified. By being proactive and strategically prepared, your organization can minimize damage and effectively manage crises as they occur.
– Ensure that your existing crisis action plans are updated and ensure that you are prepared to deal with situations involving terrorist incidents, shootings and ongoing deadly violence. Also make sure that managers in key functions have an understanding of how it is structured and feel confident in how it can be used, says Mattias Klawitter.
It is natural to think that the worst won't happen to us
Inform about new routines
The crisis organization is the heart of an effective crisis plan. Ensure that it is updated and ready to act. Regular exercises and training are key to ensuring that everyone within the organization knows how to act in different types of crises.
Ensure that everyone with a role in a crisis is well versed in what it entails. Investigate if everyone is updated on the plan and practice together. Research shows that preparation and practice increase the chances of following procedures.
– Think in the same way as during fire drills; the more ingrained it is, the smoother it goes during a real crisis event, says Mattias Klawitter.
Managers play a crucial role in creating a balance between increased security awareness while also conveying a sense of stability and security.
Expert tips on how to update your emergency plan
Update the crisis organisation – crisis manager and crisis group, roles and contact details
Carry out a renewed risk assessment of the business based on changed threat scenarios
Review and update checklists based on current risk inventory
Identify the need for implementation of the updated crisis action plan in the organization – crisis group and managers
Identify the need for training and exercises with crisis teams and managers
