Olympics bring challenges in risk management for team hosts

Representatives of Universities and Colleges in London and those who will be hosting teams for the London Olympics heard about the challenges involved in pre-planning and risk management for the event.

The well-attended UM Open Forum, sponsored by education sector risk specialist mutuals UMAL and UMSR, heard from a number of experts in risk and disaster management about how to prepare for the event.

James Lewry, of Control Risks, gave an overview of factors influencing risk changes directly arising from hosting Olympics teams, as well as institutions being in the vicinity of Olympic events. As well as concern about potential terrorist attack, there was also the issue of demonstrations and protests surrounded the teams or the torch relay event. Criminal activity targeting visitors was also a matter of concern, together with transport infrastructure challenges. He said forward planning was a priority and should be started immediately if not already begun.

Graham Burgess, UK Technical Director of GAB Robins UK, was involved in dealing with the aftermath of the 7/7 attacks on London in 2005. His talk focused on insights drawn from these events and how information was a key issue. He was involved in the subsquent discussions between the Association of Chief Police Officers, the Chartered Institute of Loss Adjusters and the Association of British Insurers to establish new protocols to deal with future post crisis situations.

Jonathan Boddy, Director of Positive Impact, gave delegates an insight into preparing a media plan for disaster situations, as well as looking at some of the challenges faced at the time of a major event. He said it was important not to see the media as an enemy, and to make sure media relations are actively managed, particularly given the universal availability of technology capable of recording events by the population at large. He said an organisation’s reputation was a valuable asset that needed to be protected, especially in times of crisis.

Summing up the day was Paul May, Chairman of Concordia Consultancy, who said the key issue in any disaster plan was the involvement of the top level of management in any organisation. He advised training for staff, and contingency planning to bring in support in the event of any disaster.

UMAL Director Susan Wilkinson said the event had been extremely informative for UMAL staff and members, providing useful insights from a range of speakers with direct experience of disasters and major adverse events.

ENDS

For further information please contact:-

Henry Creaghor Charles Macdowell

Kendalls

Tel: 01394 610022

Or email charles.macdowell@kendallscom.co.uk or henry.creagh@kendallscom.co.uk

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