Sysmex has formulated business continuity plans (BCPs) for production, procurement, and other functions to ensure the continuity of important operations in the event of an earthquake, storm and flood damage, or other large-scale disaster, as well as rapid recovery from such disasters. Our BCPs identify products to be given priority so that our products can continue to function in a stable manner at healthcare institutions even in crisis situations. We have also prepared disaster-response regulations and manuals, putting in place the systems that enable us to respond swiftly in emergencies. Moreover, we conduct regular training that simulatesm disasters and we have secured a large stockpile of supplies for employees. We periodically review BCPs and other regulations and manuals that were formulated, and work to raise awareness and make improvements through the training of employees.
In order to ensure the steady supply of our products, we procure key raw materials from multiple sources. We also select production locations in accordance with the concept of “local production for local consumption”. Moreover, we are building a system that enables factories to deliver supplies to each other in emergencies, and we have secured alternative transportation routes. In recent years, there have been increased occurrences of earthquakes, localized storms, and flood damage. However, each time a disaster occurs, we are able to assess the impact rapidly to ensure that product supply is continuous.
We have adopted a safety confirmation tool as a means of emergency communication for our employees so that we can confirm their safety as rapidly as possible. Sysmex has also installed wireless digital equipment at business offices, putting in place a system for communicating in the event of a disruption of conventional communications. We have also amassed stockpiles of supplies and other items to assist stranded personnel, setting aside sufficient items for every employee. We also periodically provide education and simulation training regarding disaster prevention and response through our e-learning programs to raise the awareness of each employees.
The backbone of our IT system is located at external, disaster-resistant data centers. In addition, we created an IT structure that allows us to quickly switch to a backup system if a disaster renders our regular systems inoperable.