How to prepare for a possible large-scale power outage, similar to those which have recently affected parts of the Czech Republic and other European countries? Stopped production lines, server outages, threats to security systems or logistics processes - all this happened in a matter of minutes. Czech IT and logistics experts have advised on crisis scenario preparation.
Many companies now realise that they need to prepare for such situations. A power outage is not only an inconvenience, it can mean a stoppage of operations, financial losses and a serious disruption of relations with customers. "The recent blackout has shown that underestimating preparations may not pay off. Companies, therefore, need a clearly defined crisis scenario that will include procedures for employees in the event of a power outage, a list of responsible persons, contacts for suppliers and crisis components, as well as information on the location of backup sources, supplies and key documents," says Michal Španěl, manager and data analyst at JenPráce.cz.
The area of energy self-sufficiency is absolutely crucial for the company during a blackout. "A reliable solution is photovoltaic systems with battery storage, which can power key devices such as servers, security systems, lighting or communication. Alternatives can be diesel generators or fuel cells designed for long-term operation. In any case, it is necessary to have separate priority circuits in the building so that only the most important parts can be powered," says Pavel Bursa from Resacs.
Mobile telephone networks and the Internet may not be available during a blackout. To ensure the flow of information, it is recommended to purchase an emergency radio receiver with fully charged batteries or with manual or solar charging. "Some such devices are also equipped with light sources and can serve as emergency lamps. It is also good to have a supply of batteries or enough energy in power banks that can charge not only mobile phones, but also other devices such as tablets or small appliances," says Jan Dvořák from the GOPAS Computer School.
Today, modern technologies also offer new communication solutions such as Meshtastic or GoTenna, which are paired with a mobile phone and create their own network, which works even if the mobile operator's service is down.
The Peplink solution, which uses Starlink technology, is popular with caravanners because it allows them to have a stable Internet connection even in remote locations. However, the same principle can easily be transferred to the corporate environment. If the company has a Starlink terminal and a source of electricity (for example, battery storage, solar panels, diesel generator), it can maintain its connection to the Internet even when local networks are down.
If the blackout lasts longer, access to drinking water and food may be disrupted. Companies should therefore have secured supplies of bottled water and basic non-perishable food. The use of filter technologies, which can produce safe water directly on the spot, can be an important insurance policy not only for manufacturing companies but also for office centres with a larger number of employees.
In the field of logistics and mobility, it is advisable to take into account that the gas station may not be in operation. Therefore, it is useful to maintain company vehicles with full tanks and possibly consider purchasing your own fuel tanks.
Similarly, it is important to think about the financial side of things. If payment terminals and ATMs stop working, companies should have cash ready to secure their basic processes, even in smaller denominations, to be able to keep all key activities running.
