An Exclusive Interview with SCSP Expert Antonia Beri on Managing Business Risk
Link to THISDAY LIVE: Managing Business Risks – THISDAYLIVE
In the wake of recent tragic events at Dosunmu market in Lagos Island, where over 15 buildings succumbed to fire, questions about managing business risks have never been more pertinent. With Nigeria reportedly losing about N3.19 trillion to fire incidents between 2015 and 2022, the urgency to address workplace safety has become undeniable.
In an exclusive interview with Antonia Beri, Lead Consultant at Safety Consultants and Solutions Provider Limited (SCSP), a risk consultancy specializing in life, fire, and safety risk management, we delve into the critical importance of proactive safety measures in safeguarding businesses and investments.
Beri’s insights shed light on the necessity for businesses to prioritize Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) policies, emphasizing that such investments not only mitigate losses but also contribute to a healthier, more committed workforce and enhance corporate image.
Despite the clear benefits, Beri notes a concerning trend where some businesses overlook safety protocols, relying solely on common sense or underestimating the value of dedicated resources for safety measures. She stresses the need for a cultural shift towards viewing safety as an investment rather than a cost.
Beri highlights the role of competent risk professionals in crisis prevention and management, emphasizing adherence to codes and standards as crucial components of risk engineering. She underscores that safety should be considered a fundamental aspect of business risk management, forming the basis for continuity planning.
Moreover, Beri provides compelling statistics, demonstrating the substantial return on investment in safety measures, with every dollar invested yielding significant returns. Conversely, the cost of accidents and injuries can be financially crippling for businesses, reinforcing the imperative of proactive risk management.
Reflecting on the recent market fire tragedy, Beri expresses sympathy for the victims and underscores the preventable nature of such disasters with proper adherence to safety principles. She advocates for proactive measures, such as the appointment of fire marshals and heightened safety awareness, as essential steps toward mitigating risks.
In addition to physical safety measures, Beri emphasizes the importance of continuous employee training and capacity building. SCSP’s commitment to delivering reliable safety solutions aligns with global best practices and industry standards, ensuring that businesses are equipped to navigate evolving safety challenges.
Beri’s call for regular review and enforcement of safety plans underscores the dynamic nature of risk management, necessitating constant vigilance and adaptation to changing regulations and hazards.
In conclusion, the insights shared by Antonia Beri underscore the imperative for businesses to prioritize safety as a strategic investment, essential for safeguarding assets, employees, and reputation. As Nigeria strives for economic growth, embracing a culture of safety will not only protect investments but also foster sustainable development and prosperity.
Read the original interview here.
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