Inclement weather can cause significant disruptions to industrial operations. Power outages, flooding, and wind damage may all trigger equipment failure, production delays, and safety concerns — none of which any facility needs! That’s why it’s crucial to have a plan to minimize the impact of severe weather on your operations. Let’s review some best practices for maintaining industrial operations during inclement weather.
Preparation Is Essential
Before inclement weather rolls in, it is key to have a strategy to protect your operations. For instance, you should:
- Develop a detailed checklist of equipment and processes that must be secured or powered down before the storm arrives.
- Identify any critical operations that cannot be shut down and develop contingency plans to ensure their continued operation during the storm.
- Assign specific responsibilities to staff members for securing equipment and shutting down processes.
- Ensure all employees are familiar with the emergency communication plan and know how to respond.
- Regularly review and update your emergency plan to ensure it remains relevant and effective.
An emergency communication strategy is also necessary to keep your staff informed and safe. One critical component of your emergency plan is ensuring your facility’s communication systems remain functional during a storm. This is where a WiFi antenna and industrial networking equipment like Cradlepoint routers help. These devices can provide a reliable backup to your primary communication systems and ensure you stay connected with your team, even if power and phone lines are down.
Protect Your Equipment
Industrial equipment can easily withstand heavy use and harsh conditions. However, it is still vulnerable to damage from severe weather. Here are some best practices for protecting your machinery during a storm:
- Conduct a thorough equipment inspection before inclement weather arrives. Repair any damage or wear and tear that the weather may exacerbate.
- Shut down and secure all unnecessary machinery during the storm, including machinery, computers, and other electronics.
- Cover or move equipment sensitive to water or wind damage, such as electrical panels, motors, and control systems.
- Invest in backup power sources, such as generators or uninterruptible power supplies, to ensure critical machinery can continue operating during a power outage.
Keep Your Team Safe
Besides protecting your equipment, it is important to prioritize the safety of your staff during inclement weather. Here are some best practices for keeping your team safe:
- Develop a comprehensive emergency response plan that outlines evacuation routes, safe zones, and communication procedures.
- Train your staff to respond to different types of severe weather and use emergency equipment like first aid kits or fire extinguishers.
- Communicate regularly with your staff before, during, and after the storm to keep them informed and ensure everyone is accounted for.
- Consider investing in personal protective equipment, such as hard hats, safety glasses, and gloves, to protect your staff from hazards during cleanup and recovery.
Post-Storm Recovery
Once the storm has passed, assessing any damage and beginning the recovery process is essential. Here are some best practices for post-storm recovery:
- Inspect your facility and equipment thoroughly to identify damage or safety hazards.
- Prioritize repairs based on the severity of the damage and the impact on your operations.
- Implement any necessary safety protocols or PPE requirements for cleanup and recovery efforts.
- Communicate regularly with your staff to inform them about the recovery process and any changes to their work schedules or duties.
Inclement weather can pose a challenge for industrial operations. But with the right preparation and response, you can minimize employee safety and production efficiency impacts. By staying organized and employing these best practices for maintaining industrial operations during inclement weather, you can ensure your operations run smoothly despite unforeseen weather events.