This advisory report has been produced by Uptime Institute, with the assistance of clients and members, to help operators of critical infrastructure facilities prepare for, and respond to, the impact of the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. The steps discussed in this report will also help operators develop strategies and procedures for future pandemics.

Introduction

During a pandemic, operators of mission-critical digital infrastructure facilities face particular challenges due to the high risk of unavailability of key staff through illness or quarantine, along with other events and measures (e.g., lockdowns, facility contamination) that might affect the ability of the operator to maintain continuous availability of IT services.