International SOS – the leading provider of global medical and security assistance to blue chip companies – has devised detailed logistical evacuation plans aimed at security managers working for organisations with offices in the Middle East region.
With the threat of war in Iraq looming large, the organisation has issued a formal Middle East Assessment to all of its clients following regional security director Tom Major’s analyses (which have been ongoing since last May). The assessment examines the possible outcomes of events, timings and what companies should be doing to protect their personnel and assets.

The world is divided into different zones to identify levels of risk, and Alert Levels used to identify the actions required should events make the threat of war imminent. Alert One counsels immediate action, Alert Two advises on preparedness to evacuate and Alert Three provides corporations with specific warnings about a country or countries where the local situation may give rise to concern.

The assessment outlines a number of scenarios that will follow an attack on Iraq, including:

  • the prompt restriction or rapid shutdown of airspace in the immediate region;
  • high demand on commercial logistics resources;
  • a backlash by Islamic militants (possible almost anywhere, but more likely where high profile Western targets are easiest).

“It is vital,” Tom Major told SMT, “that all members of staff in the region understand the emergency plans that have been put in place.”

Source

SMT

Postscript

Security managers who’d like to contact International SOS may do so by telephoning Ian Hawkins on 01621 856990 (e-mail: ian@ianhawkinsassociates.com)