What employers and employees should do during times of disaster

A joint team of firefighters, Security officers, and Nairobi City County in a drill exercise that found the occupants of the I&M Building and people in the streets of Muindi Mbingu Street and Kenyatta Avenue by surprise. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Kenya has, in the last two months, experienced unprecedented and adverse weather conditions leading to unexpected disasters. Many parts of the country experienced floods and mudslides leading to the destruction of homes, school infrastructure and roads. So significant was the impact in some areas that even employees could not report to work - which left me asking, what is the role of employers and employees when such unfortunate incidents happen?

Well, disasters are a multifaceted challenge that can significantly impact the productivity and well-being of many organisations. Employers need to accord employees appropriate support. Similarly, employees should be alive to the responsibility that they have to their employer and to themselves during and after the disaster.