Business continuity planning can mean that a disaster does not turn into a catastrophe for firms, it has been claimed.

Ian Prust, group manager for community safety at Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, explained that by ensuring their business continuity plan is up-to-date and effective, firms can save themselves a lot of trouble further down the line, reports Worcestershire News.

Speaking to the paper, he said: "A serious incident does not have to be on your premises to adversely affect the operation of your business."

Mr Prust's comments come after firefighters in the area finally put out a fire which had raged for six days.

The blaze, at the B Smith Packaging warehouse, has cost the firm an estimated £3 million.

It also caused massive disruption to a number of near by businesses.

Yesterday, writing for Director of Finance online, Anne Low claimed it is "rash" for firms to assume they do not need a business continuity plan.


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