Immediate Guidance for Businesses during a Terror Attack

Have a Clear Emergency Plan

• Ensure all staff know what to do in the event of a terror attack (Run, Hide, Tell).

• Establish evacuation routes and safe assembly points.

• Consider “invacuation” (sheltering inside) if evacuation is unsafe.

2. Staff Awareness & Training

• Deliver training on situational awareness, suspicious behaviour reporting, and emergency response.

• Encourage staff to trust their instincts and report unusual activity.

• Make sure front-of-house and security personnel know how to alert emergency services quickly.

3. Physical Security & Access Control

• Review entrances, exits, and access points — can they be locked or controlled quickly?

• Ensure CCTV, alarms, and barriers are maintained and operational.

• Test your lockdown procedures (doors, shutters, comms).

4. Communication Protocols

• Keep an updated staff contact list for rapid alerts.

• Agree on a “cascade system” so information flows quickly in an incident.

• Establish a relationship with local police and know your nearest counter-terrorism contacts.

5. Business Continuity & Recovery

• Back up critical data securely and offsite.

• Have an alternative workspace or remote working plan in case of site closure.

• Offer post-incident support (mental health/welfare) to staff.