Business continuity plans should kick in now, says the association

The elevation of the pandemic alert to level 4 by the World Health Organisation is a signal for many organisations to invoke their business continuity plans, said AIRMIC, the association of UK risk managers.

In advice issued on the outbreak, AIRMIC said: ‘Risk managers are advised to ensure that their plans for pandemics are in place, up-to-date and understood by their colleagues.’

The association also suggested that organisations should advise their employees to take a number of simple steps, such as wiping door handles with anti-septic and washing hands regularly.

If companies have operations in Asia with experience of implementing pandemic plans following the SARS outbreak they should be consulted for advice, added the risk association.

AIRMIC also advised against travelling to Latin America.