Essential Preparedness for Small Businesses During Civil Unrest

In times of civil unrest, small businesses must prepare for disruptions and threats, as they face higher risks – often with limited response capacity compared to larger organisations

In August of this year, the UK experienced widespread riots that swept through towns and cities nationwide. Many businesses were impacted, facing physical damage to property, threats to employee safety while travelling, and disruptions to services and transport due to road closures and blockages.

Although such incidents are relatively rare in the UK, small businesses should be prepared with measures to safeguard themselves, their staff, customers, and property against anti-social behaviour and potential threats in such situations.

The safety and comfort of staff are crucial. If employees are likely to be impacted by disruptions or unsafe conditions, they may prefer to work from home if possible. For those coming into the office, managers should provide clear communication about alternative travel routes, highlight any high-risk areas to avoid, and consider options like carpooling instead of using public transport. Managers should be especially mindful of the heightened anxiety among staff members from minority groups, who may feel particularly vulnerable during such times. It’s essential to maintain open communication with all employees, offering support and addressing any concerns they may have.

Securing your business

 Whether you are office-based, running an independent retail store, or operating a showroom, protecting physical property is a major concern during incidents of anti-social behaviour. If there’s a warning of potential disturbances near your premises, it’s wise to review all existing security measures and equipment. Managers should test security cameras, fire systems, and sprinklers to ensure they are functioning properly. Although these systems are typically tested regularly, it’s important to confirm they are fully operational and to implement any additional necessary measures. Consider enhancing security with extra locks or cameras at key access points, including windows and roof access. For dealers, it might also be beneficial to advise customers in the area on strengthening their security, providing guidance on the most effective products to use.

In the event of a break-in during a riot, both business assets and personal belongings of employees could be at risk. To mitigate this, it is advisable to ask team members not to bring high-value personal items to work. Additionally, remove sensitive or expensive items from the premises whenever possible. It’s also prudent to document and photograph all equipment and maintain a detailed record. Externally, consider relocating items like bins, which could be used to access the roof, away from walls and into a secure area.

Supporting each other

 Although small businesses might not have the option to close or relocate during periods of civil unrest, it’s crucial to implement measures that prioritise the safety of customers and staff while minimising disruption to operations. Maintaining regular communication with customers is essential, ensuring they are informed about any changes or delays in services. While civil unrest poses significant challenges, small businesses can mitigate risks by implementing robust security measures, maintaining open communication with staff and customers and being proactive in safeguarding both physical property and personal belongings. Further to this, dealers can play a crucial role in supporting customers through providing advice on effective security measures and staying informed about potential disruptions.