Peru is among the countries with the highest seismic activity in the region. According to the Geophysical Institute of Peru (IGP), seismic activity in the country is constant, so organizations must take preventive measures to protect their employees, reduce risks at their facilities, and ensure business continuity.
Infrastructure is another key aspect of earthquake preparedness. According to the National Center for Disaster Risk Assessment, Prevention, and Reduction (CENEPRED), approximately 85% of the country’s buildings were constructed informally, without complying with technical standards. This reality underscores the importance of conducting periodic inspections and in good condition.
"Many organizations have evacuation protocols, but true preparedness goes beyond that. It is essential to know the condition of the infrastructure, verify critical systems, and have a plan in place to resume operations as quickly as possible. That is the role of Facility Management: to help companies reduce risks before an emergency occurs and facilitate a faster recovery of their operations."
Given this scenario, there are five actions that can help companies strengthen the safety of their facilities and minimize the impact of an earthquake:
1. Inspect non-structural elements
Light fixtures, shelving, racks, glass partitions, suspended ceilings, and equipment can pose a risk during an earthquake if they are not properly secured. A preventive inspection helps identify components that could become dislodged, shift, or fall.
2. Check the building’s critical systems
Electrical systems, generators, water pumps, fire suppression systems, and other essential services must undergo preventive maintenance and periodic testing to ensure they function during and after an emergency.
3. Have a business continuity plan
In addition to the evacuation protocol, companies must identify their critical processes, responsible personnel, and alternatives to maintain or resume operations if the building must be temporarily vacated.
4. Train staff and conduct drills
Drills help verify that protocols work and that employees are familiar with evacuation routes, safe zones, and assembly points. They should also involve emergency response teams, security personnel, vendors, and contractors.
5. Conduct inspections and preventive maintenance
Wear and tear, modifications, or the addition of new equipment can create vulnerabilities. Regular inspections help identify and correct these issues in a timely manner. In this process, Facility Management integrates maintenance, security, risk management, and business continuity.
