6 Smart Ways to Prevent Virus Disruptions at Your Business
- stephen7705
- Apr 4
- 2 min read
Virus outbreaks aren’t just health crises—they’re major business disruptions. From employee absenteeism to supply chain breakdowns, a poorly prepared business can suffer financial loss, reputational damage, and even permanent closure.
At RiskAssured, we believe in proactive risk management. That’s why we’re sharing this guide, inspired by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), to help your business stay resilient during viral outbreaks like COVID-19, flu season, or future pandemics.
Here are six essential steps to safeguard your operations, workforce, and bottom line.

1. Stay Alert to Health Risks and Outbreak Trends
Know what you’re up against. Monitor trusted health authorities like:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
The World Health Organization (WHO)
Your state Department of Health
Your local Emergency Management Agency
Being informed allows you to make timely decisions and keep your business operations aligned with public safety recommendations.
2. Communicate Frequently with Your Team and Partners
During a virus outbreak, clear, consistent communication is your first line of defense.
Use multiple channels to reach employees, clients, and vendors:
Company intranet or secure team portal
Emergency hotlines
Email newsletters
Social media and SMS alerts
Keep your messages fact-based, timely, and action-oriented. Transparency builds trust and minimizes panic.
3. Limit Exposure with Smart Safety Protocols
Reduce the risk of infection in your workplace with practical, science-backed steps:
Implement social distancing by limiting in-person meetings and gatherings
Transition to remote work where possible
Cancel non-essential business travel
Follow local mandates for masking and occupancy
Minimizing physical interactions can slow virus spread—and keep your team healthy and productive.
4. Prepare for Absenteeism with Cross-Training
Infectious outbreaks often lead to sudden employee absences. Stay ahead by:
Cross-training staff so essential roles are covered
Building relationships with temp agencies for last-minute staffing
Reviewing your sick leave policies to promote responsible behavior
A flexible workforce keeps your business running when staff levels fluctuate.
5. Secure Your Supply Chain
A virus outbreak can cause global or local supply chain breakdowns. Mitigate these risks by:
Identifying alternate suppliers in key categories
Pre-ordering essential materials and supplies
Evaluating supplier resilience and their own continuity plans
Diversifying your sourcing protects your production and customer service commitments.
6. Build and Test a Business Continuity Plan
Don’t wait for disaster to strike. Create a business continuity plan that covers:
Infection control procedures
Remote work capabilities
Communication protocols
Staffing strategies
Recovery timelines
IBHS offers a helpful toolkit called OFB-EZ to guide small businesses through the process.
Bonus: Prevent the Spread of Germs in the Workplace
Promote basic hygiene habits:
Wash hands frequently with soap and water
Disinfect high-touch surfaces regularly
Avoid touching your face
Use tissues or elbows to cover coughs/sneezes
Maintain distance from visibly sick individuals
These low-cost actions go a long way in protecting your people.
Protect Your Business from the Next Outbreak
Virus preparedness is no longer optional—it’s a cornerstone of smart business management. By taking proactive steps today, you can minimize disruptions, protect your workforce, and maintain continuity no matter what comes next.
Need help strengthening your continuity planning or virus response protocols? Contact RiskAssured for expert consulting and tailored risk solutions that prepare your business for the unexpected.