M15 publishes bomb threat procedures for businesses

M15, the UK security service, has published advice for businesses on how to handle and respond to bomb threats. The advice makes it clear that, while most bomb threats are hoaxes, any such hoax is a crime and, no matter how ridiculous or unconvincing, should be reported to the police.

M15 tells businesses to:

* Identify all staff who could conceivably receive a bomb threat and ensure either that they are trained in handling procedures or at least have ready access to instructions - and know where these are kept. This applies particularly to hotels, hospitals, news agencies, public transport organisations, voluntary organisations and others offering any sort of emergency service. Switchboard operators should understand their important role in recording and communicating any bomb threat; they should be routinely familiar with procedures and rehearse them regularly.

* Draw up, ideally with advice from your local police Counter Terrorist Security Advisor, a clear and accessible list of actions to take on receipt of a call. Ensure that it can be printed off and fixed to walls or desks so that staff can see it instantly.

* Ensure that other staff mentioned in the action list, particularly security staff, are aware of their roles and that they or their deputies are always contactable.

* Ensure that all staff, including night or temporary staff, are familiar with any recording, redial or display facilities, and that they know how to contact police and security staff in or out of hours.

* Rehearse your bomb threat procedures as part of your evacuation procedures.

The advice includes a recommended checklist of actions as well as evacuation advice. Go there.

•Date: 26th January 2005 • Region: UK •Type: Article •Topic: Terrorism
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