Partner Article

Businesses warned to protect against riots

Businesses based near banks are being advised to take precautions against the possibility of riots and civil disturbances this summer.

It may sound like scare-mongering, but continuity management specialists are warning firms with premises near major banks to prepare for potential damage or loss of earnings if the predicted ‘summer of rage’ occurs.

This follows recent reports that, as a result of the troubled economy, MI5 and the police are preparing for anarchical riots targeting financial organisations.

Business planning consultancy Crisis Survivor is one of the firms advising businesses, including offices and retailers who are situated adjacent to the financial powerhouses, particularly RBS, to reassess their continuity plans.

Obviously, companies such as Crisis Survivor have a vested interest in encouraging small businesses to prepare for the worst. The firm’s head of risk management, Bill May, however, feels that their concerns are legitimate.

“Businesses should not underestimate the real threat that political extremists can pose,” he said. “Although they will be targeting the financial institutions, as has been seen with many riots in the past, things often get out of control, leaving local businesses and their staff to take the full brunt. We strongly advise businesses situated close to these institutions to reassess their continuity plans and prepare for the worst.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .