Many global firms lack plans to manage extreme weather, finds International SOS

A survey by International SOS Foundation has found that just a third of firms (36%) have comprehensive plans and policies in place to deal with extreme weather events, and well over half (57%) haven’t even conducted risk assessments on such threats.

The global survey of more than 200 key decision-makers across 40 countries also reveals that just a quarter of organisations have plans in place to address the health risks facing employees from extreme weather. International SOS said this is leaving many unprepared to manage injury, illness or fatalities.

It added that emergency responses and effective crisis management are further complicated by the fact that a quarter of organisations report they would be unable to locate employees during a crisis. This poses significant risk to both employee safety and business continuity, said International SOS.

The survey also reveals that managing employee mental health following extreme weather events is often overlooked, with 40% of organisations not offering any support to affected employees and their families.

“The aftermath of these events can be just as devastating as the physical damage, and without the right support, the long-term consequences can be significant for both individuals and the organisation as a whole,” said International SOS.

Dr Irene Lai, global medical director at International SOS, said it is important that organisations make sure they are more resilient to human-related risks and warned that many are overlooking this issue.

“In today’s world, businesses are navigating increasingly complex challenges due to extreme weather. It’s not just about bracing for a flood or a heatwave; it is about the human side of resilience – understanding how these events can profoundly impact health, mental wellbeing and security. Many organisations still overlook the comprehensive planning needed to safeguard their workforce in these moments of crisis,” said Lai.

“True resilience involves more than just infrastructure; it requires proactive, people-centred planning that prepares both individuals and communities to withstand and recover from these impactful events. This means establishing reliable communication channels, ensuring access to medical and mental health resources, and embedding flexibility in response plans to adapt to evolving situations. When organisations address these elements, they not only protect their people but strengthen their long-term ability to thrive,” she added.

This is increasingly important for risk managers given that disruption from extreme weather events is on the rise. The survey by International SOS found that 65% of respondents reported their organisation has been affected by extreme weather in the past five years.

Among those significantly affected, 80% reported operational disruptions, 54% experienced infrastructure damage, and nearly a quarter saw physical injuries among employees or their families.

Flooding emerged as the most common extreme weather, with heavy rain being the primary cause, for over 72% of respondents.

International SOS said that the rising frequency and magnitude of extreme weather events means organisations must adopt more robust solutions.

It said that advances in weather forecasting and monitoring technology provide organisations with greater insight and predictive capabilities, enabling them to prepare and respond more effectively.

Organisations can mitigate the risks associated with extreme weather and reduce the impact on their operations and workforce by integrating early warning systems and enhancing preparedness planning, it added.

“Those who invest in proactive planning will be better positioned to protect their people, maintain business continuity, and navigate the growing challenge of extreme weather. This includes ensuring access to immediate health and mental health support, so employees can receive the care they need to recover and remain resilient in the face of crisis,” said International SOS.

The findings are part of the International SOS Foundation’s latest report Extreme Weather: Health Impacts on the Global Workforce, aimed at equipping organisations with insight and to address these critical issues in the evolving climate landscape.