It is often overlooked that terrorism can impact organisations in numerous ways, both indirectly and directly.

Modern terrorist attacks do not just impact their immediate location - they can lead to the shutting down of transportation networks in entire cities.

Businesses miles away from the explosion point can be disrupted, with employees finding it hard to travel to work. In this context terrorism has to be factored into Business Continuity Management.

Organisations may also need to consider if they are directly vulnerable to attack, a risk heightened for high-profile brands, or those located in landmark buildings or central areas. A range of practical design and security measures can be effective in reducing risk.

Critical questions you need to consider

• Do you understand which business processes may be impacted by a terrorist attack and how they can be restored?

• Can your employees work from home if an attack disrupts your business?

• Have you updated your Business Continuity Plans to take terrorism into account? Do you understand the different 'before, during and after' aspects of preparing for an attack?

• Have you considered modelling the impact of a terrorist attack?

• If necessary, are you protecting your property in the most effective way - do you have toughened glass, guarded entrances away from roads, and car parks at road-level? If you are commissioning new buildings, is protection factored into the design?