What can I do at work?

There are several types of flooding that should be considered in preparing for flood hazards in Hawaii. Floods can be associated with stream and channel overflow associated with heavy rains or a flash flood. Flooding can also occur with several other hazards such as tsunamis or hurricanes and wind storms that drive water inland and release heavy rains.

Businesses can be greatly impacted by floods. It is estimated 43% of businesses never reopen following a local disaster, such as a flood.

Therefore, it is important business owners take proactive steps to protect their business, because they are a vital part of the community.

Condominium owners and large apartment buildings operate as businesses, and for the purpose of mitigating actions and flood insurance, it is important to refer to the actions described in this section.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) suggest that small business owners develop a Disaster Plan that includes mitigation activities. These activities are divided into the following categories:

• Facilities (Buildings & Equipment)
• Operations
• Critical Information & Communications
• Insurance

Links for additional information are provided at the end of this page.

Facilities (Buildings & Equipment)

1. Elevate the main breaker or fuse box above the anticipated flood level in your business, so that floodwater won't damage your utilities. All electrical wiring and plumbing should be carried out by a professional contractor, licensed to work in your state. Click here for more information.
2. Add a waterproof veneer to the exterior walls and seal all openings, including doors, to prevent the entry of water. Changes to the foundation of your house must be done by a licensed contractor, who will en-sure that the work is done correctly and according to all applicable codes. This is important for your safety. Click here for more information.
3. Clear Debris away from your building to prevent large objects from smashing into the side of your building.
4. Install check-valves to prevent water from entering where utility and sewer lines enter the facility. Changes to the foundation of your house must be done by a licensed contractor, who will en-sure that the work is done correctly and according to all applicable codes. This is important for your safety. Click here for more information.

Operations

1. Purchase a backup generator to maintain full operations or critical functions such as refrigeration, lighting, security systems, and computer control in the event of a power failure.
2. Have back-up vendors and shippers in place in case your primary ones are disabled. Set up relationships in advance and maintain them.

Critical Information and Communication

1. Make backup copies of all critical records such as accounting and employee data, as well as customer lists, production formulas, and inventory.
2. Keep a backup copy of your computer's basic operating system, boot files, and critical software.
3. Store a copy of all vital information on-site and a second in a safe off-site location. Make it a critical part of your routine to regularly back up files.
4. Make pre-arrangements with computer vendors to quickly replace damaged vital hardware. Keep invoices, shipping lists, and other documentation of your system configuration off-site so you can quickly order the correct replacement components.
5. Maintain an up-to-date copy of phone numbers, computer and Internet logon codes and passwords, employee phone numbers and other critical information in an accessible location.
6. Develop an employee "telephone tree" to rapidly contact employees in an emergency.

Insurance

For more information you can visit the following websites: