Chapter 4 - Preparedness and risk mitigation

Abstract

The purpose of a Preparedness Plan is not only to indicate how negative events might affect special library staff members and operations, but also to describe ways to mitigate the effects of those events. Some disaster planners find it helpful to compile highly detailed Preparedness Plans that describe the history of prevailing risks in and around their libraries and the potential effects of negative events on library operations, followed by extensive risk mitigation programs (RMPs). Preparedness Plans can contain a risk assessment and analysis, a business impact analysis (BIA), an RMP, a budget, a schedule for implementation, and guidelines for auditing and updating. The likelihood of negative events should be considered, as well as the vulnerability of an organization and its library. The process of developing a BIA is easy to summarize but challenging to carry out. The essential elements of a RMP include plain language, realistic risk mitigation measures, and recommendations for enhanced life safety.