Disaster Response Decision Framework
This framework provides field leaders with a structured decision architecture for disaster events. It operates on one principle: the organization is not a first responder, but it has the resources and people to make a significant difference when called upon.
Five-Step Response Sequence
Step 01
Appoint
Designate primary and secondary weather watch or crisis POCs at regional and site levels. They monitor developments and escalate when a response plan is needed.
Step 02
Assess
Identify threat type (tornado, hurricane, fire, flood, other). Determine severity and scope. Reference the appropriate disaster response plan.
Step 03
Notify
Inform field leadership as the situation develops. Post to the disaster response channel. Share severity and scope. Flag requests for community or customer support. Identify assistance needed from headquarters or other locations.
Step 04
Respond
Execute response appropriate to the situation. Each disaster is unique. Field leaders are trusted and backed to make the best decisions on the ground with imperfect information.
Step 05
Review
After the crisis, conduct a structured review. What worked. What needs improvement. Capture employee feedback. Update contact information in the crisis comms manual.
Response Tier Matrix
| Asset | Tier | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| People | Tier 1 | Ensure employee and family safety. Take necessary action. Report status to leadership. |
| People | Tier 2 | Assess requests for community support based on impact. Follow local emergency responder directives. The organization is not a first responder. |
| Assets | Tier 1 | Follow site securing protocol: secure large assets and outdoor inventory, secure loose materials, remove temporary structures, store hazardous chemicals, photograph the site. |
| Assets | Tier 2 | Respond to increased demand for company assets (debris removal, power generation, HVAC, lighting). |
| Assets | Tier 3 | Adjust business rules based on emergency urgency (relaxed approval requirements, reduced pricing, modified terms). Site Leader/Regional Manager decision. |
| Other Support | Tier 1 | Elevate requests for foundation contributions. Coordinate volunteer mobilization through the formal volunteer system. |
Site Securing Protocol
Quick checklist for immediate site protection:
01
Secure all large assets and outdoor inventory
02
Remove or tightly secure all loose materials (tools, bins, portable structures)
03
Take down temporary structures and fencing
04
Remove and safely store hazardous chemicals
05
Photograph the site for insurance documentation
Volunteer Mobilization
A formal volunteer registry activates community support during declared disaster events:
- Formal volunteer registry maintained through the HRIS system
- Employees self-enroll through their HR profile
- Volunteer list is activated during declared disaster events
- Coordination flows through regional leadership