One in four Finnish workers in critical societal roles does not know how their work would continue during a major disruption. This concerning finding comes from a new survey conducted by Finland's central rescue organization and the National Emergency Supply Agency. The study reveals serious gaps in emergency preparedness across essential services.
The research shows that 25% of workers in vital positions lack clarity about business continuity plans. Even more alarming, 17% of respondents stated they would be unable to continue working at their workplace during a crisis situation.
Emergency preparedness expert Roope Siirtola from the National Emergency Supply Agency emphasized the interconnected nature of modern society. He explained how one worker's inability to reach their job can create cascading effects. If an early childhood professional cannot get to work during a power outage, a fuel truck driver might need to stay home to care for children. This could leave hospitals without generator fuel.
Finland's geographical position and climate make emergency preparedness particularly crucial. The country faces potential disruptions from extreme weather, cyber attacks, and other emergencies that could paralyze critical infrastructure. Finnish authorities have long emphasized the importance of individual and organizational readiness.
Markus Latva-aho, preparedness chief at the rescue organization, said employers must clearly communicate how work continuity will be ensured during disruptions. Results clearly show that employers need to better inform staff about emergency procedures.
Workplaces should encourage people to prepare for emergencies by providing information about 72-hour preparedness guidelines. Organizations can share this knowledge by inviting preparedness trainers or publishing internal materials for staff.
Miia Saarimäki, special preparedness expert, noted that when employees worry about their family's survival during a crisis, their work focus suffers. Many workplaces make it difficult for staff to leave during the day to obtain essentials like water for their families.
Finnish legislation requires employers to ensure basic needs like drinking water and sanitation facilities for employees. Critical sector organizations may also need readiness plans demanded by customers, funders, or regulations. These plans should ideally describe how to support staff's independent preparedness through information sharing.
Despite the gaps in workplace preparedness, Finns generally value emergency readiness. A striking 97% of survey respondents viewed independent preparedness positively or neutrally. They recognized its important role in maintaining societal function during serious disruptions.
Crisis situations can overlap and compound each other. Long-lasting emergencies challenge daily life in different ways. In such scenarios, it becomes even more important that workplaces have considered preparedness from the staff perspective in advance.
The findings highlight a critical vulnerability in Finland's otherwise robust emergency response system. While the country has strong infrastructure and planning at governmental levels, individual workplace readiness appears inconsistent. This gap could prove problematic during extended emergencies that test societal resilience beyond initial response capabilities.
For international readers, this study offers insights into Nordic approaches to crisis management. Finland's comprehensive emergency supply system and emphasis on individual responsibility represent a distinct model compared to other countries. The research suggests even well-prepared nations face challenges in translating high-level planning to practical workplace implementation.