Forewarned is forearmed – it is always wise to be prepared for the worst.
The planned national shutdown on 20 March 2023, the imminent strike of SAPU (SA Policing Unit) and the ongoing strike by Nehawu (National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Unions) is a potential cocktail of destruction in the making.
Various sources in the media have highlighted that these events have increased the public disorder risk (SASRIA risk), which may result in looting etc.
We urge all our clients, particularly our business clients, to be prepared for what may come.
Some risk management tips to consider include:
News
Follow news updates regularly and avoid high risk areas
Combustibles
Remove any combustible materials within the vicinity of your buildings
Business Continuity Plan (BCP)
Update your BCP to ensure your business can continue normal operations as soon as possible after any disruptions.
In addition, every business should have an emergency supplies ready, like First Aid, battery powered lights etc.
Security
Liaise with your security team to ensure you have taken all reasonable steps to protect your assets and your staff.
Top Up Vehicle Fuel
Top up vehicles fuel tanks, due to possible traffic flow issues like roadblocks, closures etc.
Employee Safety is a High Priority
Businesses need to ensure a safe working environment, by identifying the risks employees may be exposed to (a requirement of the The Occupational Health and Safety Act) and should civil unrest arise, the ability to deliver clear employee communication and guidance is vital.
Evacuation Plans
Evacuation Plans should be an essential part of your planning, in the event staff need to evacuate the premises.
You should also be in a position to disconnect critical equipment and remove key equipment, if the situation merits this.
SASRIA Insurance
Make sure that your SASRIA (SASRIA is a state owned enterprise, which essentially looks to cover civil unrest) insurance policy is fully covered and up to date.
SASRIA can also cover security costs prior to loss providing there is “imminent danger” i.e. insured civil unrest within 10 km radius of the premises. Similarly, security costs for the protection of property during and after a loss can also be insured.
Until next time, be prepared and be insured.
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