- Be systematic in planning for any disruption. For example: many companies in London will be using London2012’s action plan template that can be found here.
- Staffing levels can be impacted during the Games because of increased levels of volunteering, annual leave requests and longer commute times. Discuss plans with staff beforehand and perhaps arrange cover to compensate. For example: a hotel with a restaurant might arrange a contract with a temporary staff supplier in advance of the rush on their services.
- To mitigate against a possible increase in staff absence consider making a television/radio available in the workplace for the most anticipated events.
-
Lessons can be learned from what small businesses in London are doing to prepare for the games, though impact on them will be greater. Look over a factsheet produced by London2012 for some more specific advice here.
- If you are reliant on a supply chain that uses London and the London main roads, check with them to make sure they are prepared. Consider reading and forwarding the London2012 factsheet on the subject found here. For example: a restaurant or cafe might arrange for deliveries for the morning rush to come in the night before rather than risk traffic on the day.
- A certain group of roads, called the Olympic Route Network, will be reserved for athletes and Games personnel at certain times, this could disrupt travel plans and supply chains. Make yourself aware of the Olympic route network here. For example: a company that supplies central London locations might have to work out alternative routes/factor in extra time to their deliveries.
- The sailing events will take place in Weymouth and Portland beginning on the 29 July. If your business uses the route between there and London, factor in travel delays. For example: a Guildford company arranging a meeting in Southampton should factor in extra time whilst communting on the A31.
- If your company has regular physical contact with the London area, for example for staff, business travel, customers or suppliers, consider the advice given by London2012 on the subject here.
- Check the Transport For London website beforehand and allow more time for any business you need to carry out in London around gametime, especially between the 29 July and 7 August when a large number of events will be held. For example: a company that has regular deliveries or meetings in London or using London trunk roads might rearrange things to allow more travel time.
- For Surrey specific advice around business continuity in general visit http://www.surreycontinuity.org/
- A wealth of information can be found on London2012’s website, but remember that it is targeted at businesses primarily based in London. The appropriate page can be found here.
Surrey 2012
E: london2012@surreycc.gov.uk
T: +44 1372 371 615
http://www.surrey2012.info