Conclusions (Disaster Relief: Public Safety and Public Opinion after a Plant Emergency)
Author(s):
James Henken
Conclusions
To summarize, both interviewees had some very similar comments. Both stated a good company should have some form of disaster relief plan before an event occurs. This includes someone to deal with the press and media. The first interviewee seemed to feel there was no pressure to release a statement until everything was documented and under control. This contrasts slightly with the second interviewee, who stressed admission early to gain public trust and more cooperation in general. However, both would be truthful in their press statements. Also, both stressed protecting people and responders as a first priority. Neither expressed any efforts to lie, cover-up, or act in some unethical or illegal matter.
I found the interviews very interesting. The first provided a very good overview of how to respond to an emergency, far beyond dealing with media and public reaction. The second benefited from the interviewee's having dealt with these matters as a career, in both the public and private sectors. An added bonus was that each had personal experiences that were very similar to the scenario. Each description of the interviews contains additional comments and expansion concerning the individual points.
I will close with a few general thoughts. It was reassuring to hear from both the paramount importance of public safety. Also, each stressed being truthful and honest, or at least declining to comment until information is gathered. I found this quite applicable, as I will soon be graduating and entering industry. I will know to seek some form of disaster relief plan and become familiar with it. Also, keeping everyone safe and intact while gathering information will be a priority should an accident occur.
Cite this page:
James Henken
"Conclusions (Disaster Relief: Public Safety and Public Opinion after a Plant Emergency)"
Online Ethics Center for Engineering
3/21/2006 11:38:12 AM
National Academy of Engineering
Accessed: Tuesday, January 06, 2009
<www.onlineethics.org/CMS/enviro/enviroessays/disrel/disrel-conc.aspx>