WorldWide Drilling Resource

65 WorldWide Drilling Resource ® JULY 2015 service is a smile. It is an acknowledging wave, a reaching handshake, a friendly wink, and a warm hug. It’s these simple acts that matter most, because the greatest service to a human soul has always been the kindness of recognition. Richelle E. Goodrich Planning a Workplace Response to Tragedy Compiled by Amy White, Associate Editor WorldWide Drilling Resource ® Every day, we are bombarded with news of natural disasters, crimes, acci- dents, and other tragedies. Though the media is often focused on how individuals are affected, businesses can be among the victims too as they try to face the world with firm footing in the aftermath. Personal tragedies are more com- mon in the workplace. Coworkers or their family members die. Businesses file for bankruptcy, leaving hundreds of people unemployed. Offices burn down, and the list goes on. Whether tragedies are personal and close to home, or national and larger than life, people in workplaces often experi- ence them together. For example, many of us watched the tragedy of September 11, 2001, unfold while at work. Though actions and wishes are less public dur- ing personal tragedies, there is the same sense of wanting to do something to help, but not always being certain what to do. The most basic human reaction is to reach out to others for friendship and support. The following ideas can help you help others when life-changing tragedies occur within your own workplace: e Get together and talk. Many peo- ple find comfort in being close to oth- ers when tragedy happens. If you’re an employer, you can informally pro- vide opportunities for interaction by encouraging staff to gather in break rooms or conference rooms. You could bring in lunch and invite work- ers to spend time sharing grief and support. If you’re an employee, suggest a potluck lunch with your coworkers. Keep in mind though, many talk openly during a tragic event, and others are prone to suffer silently. Try to draw out silent people with central gatherings when possible. e Find something you can do to help. After September 11, stories of volunteerism, sharing of food and space, giving blood, and helping neighbors abounded. These stories also dominate the response to nat- ural disasters like hurricanes, tor- nadoes, and floods. If you are an employer, see if it is possible to sponsor a blood or food drive. Maybe the tragedy is more personal and you could bring a casserole to a bereaved family, or simply have other coworkers sign a card to let your grieving colleague know you care. e Be prepared. Perhaps the most important thing you can do is have a plan in place. For employers, make sure all employees are trained in the details of the plan. Think about what could happen - fires, tornadoes, flooding, hurricanes, and any other natural or terrorist event. Make a plan to handle anything you can think of, and be prepared in advance as much as possible.