The Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce encourages it Members, the Private Sector and the various departments of the Public Sector to take proactive measures in safeguarding human resource, other resources and operations for the risks that we are faced with, specifically with consideration of the upcoming hurricane season.

DAIC acknowledges that hurricanes are not the only risks that we are faced with; however, recommends that as the Hurricane Season is upon us, plans are re-evaluated and upgraded to reflect the potential risks that we are vulnerable to. Adequate preparation ensures that both our Private and Public Sectors can return to normal operations within a quicker timeframe.

This year DAIC is sharing a business continuity checklist with the business community which, if completed, will minimize disruptions to operations. This checklist encourages putting in place a “Go Box” for critical documents by using a plastic/waterproof container that can be used to hold and carry essential business documents and useful forms, whilst backing up these same documents via online cloud storage. Additional vital information is included such as how to secure one’s property in preparation for a possible interruption, and key points to consider after a business interruption.

Additional measures in preparation for an interruption and documents to be updated include:

• A list of all employees, key customers, and clients along with their phone numbers
• Insurance policies and Agent contact information
• Equipment, computer software/hardware, and furniture inventory
• A list of emergency vendors, e.g. plumbers and restoration contractors
• Copies of essential business policies, plans, and agreements
• Photographs of the business, both inside and out

Executive Director of DAIC and ARISE Focal Point Ms. Lizra Fabien encourages DAIC’s Members and Dominica’s Private Sector to be prepared though these and other proactive measures as it is better to be prepared despite the occurrence of no interruption than to be unprepared for the disastrous.

Ms. Fabien thanks all Members and other businesses for participating in the recent Disaster Risk Reduction Workshop as the information and tools received are fundamental to enhancing our resilience to disasters.

DAIC continues to support the national efforts in being climate resilient and also the achievement of the global targets of the Sendai Framework which aims to reduce mortality, affected people, economic losses and damages to critical infrastructure of basic services, in addition to advancing or disaster risk reduction strategies, international cooperation and availability, and access to multi-hazard early warning systems and disaster risk information.

DAIC encourages all to be mindful of private property (businesses and personal) in times of disaster and respect the guiding laws and principles advised and enforced by our regulatory authorities, including the Dominica Police Force, Office of Disaster Management, the Meteorology Office, and other related advisory bodies.

For additional information on the checklist shared or additional support in mitigating disaster risk for the Private Sector, contact DAIC at 1(767)449-1962 or [email protected].

DAIC Business Continuity Plan Checklist 2019