In light of the recent terrorist attacks in New York, Kroll Associates, a risk-consulting group is issuing advice to firms on how to protect themselves.

While a company’s circumstances, needs and risk profiles will differ, says Kroll, there are general points for very firm to consider. In the short-term, travel should be limited to essential trips and firms should review the risk profile of destinations carefully; firm should review operational security plans and ensure that they are properly implemented, ensuring that buildings have effective security procedures and proper handling of external visitors. Firms should communicate security measures and procedures to all staff in a serious but low-key way.

Expatriate staff should ensure that they are registered with the embassy or consulate, and that they have emergency telephone numbers and adequate cash resources to deal with crises, says Kroll. Prominent employees, and staff working in high risk regions, should maintain a low profile, avoid very visible events where possible and vary normal travel routes.

Long term–issues include: a thorough risk analysis is the foundation of effective security and global risk profiles; crisis management plans need to be regularly updated and tested; and, plans need to cover evacuation procedures, staff lists, emergency numbers and crisis management teams.

“Ensure that planning for any business interruption is updated to reflect new risks. Review insurance coverage and availability and adequacy of back-up facilities. Check that business-critical material, such as IT back-up, is stored securely off-site.”