Whether it’s a pandemic or a group lottery win, companies need to be prepared if regular operations are suddenly affected, according to a HR industry expert.

“H1N1 is providing a much-needed awareness for many businesses,” said Lotte Struwing of Lasting Solutions HR Consulting and Coaching. “Many operate day to day without a second thought to what-if.”

Struwing suggested owners and managers take this opportunity to start thinking about emergency planning on a broader scope as well -- regardless of the size of the firm.

The first step is [creating] a committee (even a party of one, if necessary) [made] of decision-makers to identify the essential skills within the organization, establish what needs to be done and by whom, develop contingency and communications plans, and arrange for appropriate training.

“For small businesses, it can take an hour,” she said of the risk assessment and subsequent planning. “For larger businesses, it can take weeks and months because it gets complicated.”

A meeting can start with “what-if” brainstorming. “Get out all the crazy ideas and determine which ones are possibilities and which are not,” she suggests. “Then you work on a plan for those you think are viable.” She recommends focusing on those that would critically impact the business so the process doesn’t get overwhelming.

. . . It’s also essential to meet with key external partners to outline an [alternate] operating relationship if necessary.

“What happens if you’re fine, but your key clients are shutdown or quarantined?” she asked. “Document, review, obtain approvals, test and update.”

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