TORONTO – The Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association (CRFA) has launched an online guide to help foodservice operators prepare for a possible flu pandemic.  The guide can be viewed in full at www.crfa.ca/fluplan (a French version of the guide is also available at www.crfa.ca/fluplanfrench).
 
Developed by CRFA’s flu pandemic working group, the guide includes both an industry preparedness plan and a template that individual foodservice operators can use to help ensure business continuity.   
 
The industry preparedness plan focuses on broad issues such as food supply and transportation; health precautions and economic protections for foodservice employees; coordination with government agencies and departments; and communication strategies.  Practical tips for foodservice operators – such as arranging a higher limit on a business line of credit before a pandemic occurs, and considering alternative ways to deliver products to customers – are also included.
 
The business continuity portion of the guide is fully customizable and includes information and sample policies and forms to help operators address key business issues – from governance to financial sustainability to post-pandemic recovery.
 
As a “living document,” the online flu pandemic preparedness guide will be updated as needed to ensure its relevance and accuracy.  Future enhancements will include a “Frequently Asked Questions” section, to respond to operator questions.  Regular updates about the guide will be included in CRFA News Online, issued monthly by email.  To subscribe or to submit a question about pandemic planning, please complete the form at www.crfa.ca/fluplan/signupform.