Efforts to Prevent or Mitigate Disasters
The power to support safety when disaster strikes
We are using AI and ICT (Information and Communications Technology) to promptly compile and
communicate disaster information. We are working on disaster prevention measures
to protect lives, and are taking measures to mitigate the effects of disasters in their aftermath.
SoftBank Corp. is developing guidelines and making internal preparations for major disasters
and is working closely with relevant government agencies.
Emergency operational plans
Under the Basic Act on Disaster Control Measures, SoftBank is designated public corporations as set out by the national government, and thus formulate Disaster Operational Plans. Both companies have established systems for disaster prevention and preparedness, and in the case of disasters, respond in accordance with their Disaster Operational Plans while working closely with relevant organizations.
Disaster drills
To ensure readiness for a major disaster, SoftBank holds annual company-wide joint disaster drills. Regional offices also conduct localized disaster drills that take into account their own geographical characteristics.
Network disaster response drills
Each company conducts an annual disaster drill as realistically as possible and reviews and improves measures for network maintenance based on what is learned. Additionally, each office conducts both localized disaster drills and joint drills with partner companies to facilitate rapid restoration of the telecommunications network after a disaster.
Safety confirmation drills
Each company conducts company-wide drills using the Safety Confirmation System, which is linked to earthquake and tsunami information from the Japan Weather Association, an extra-governmental organization. This system is used to confirm the safety of personnel who are to be dispatched for the rapid restoration of telecommunications in affected areas with a view to securing the necessary personnel for restoration work.
Fire and earthquake response drills
Each company carries out biannual integrated disaster drills in spring and fall for earthquake and fire situations.
In February 2015, the SoftBank Group conducted a live-action drill that simulated a major earthquake occurring in the Nankai Trough to verify the series of actions that are needed to quickly restore emergency communications during a major disaster scenario. Mobile base station vehicles and portable base stations are provided throughout the country and intended to provide coverage to communication areas and evacuation sites that have lost coverage as a result of damage due to an earthquake. The time required to set up a base station varies by location, but in this drill, mobile base station vehicles were set up in approximately 30 minutes, and the even more assembly-intense portable base stations were set up in approximately one hour.
Participation in local-government disaster drills
Each company participates in municipal-level disaster drills and drills for stranded commuters, as well as displaying panels explaining the Disaster Message Board Service and how to use it, and exhibiting mobile base station vehicles and satellite phones.
Establishment of an emergency response department
In a major disaster, an Emergency Response Department will be established, and action will be taken to rapidly restore telecommunications networks.
Structure based on Disaster Response Agreements
SoftBank aims to ensure communication during major natural disasters through broad reciprocal cooperation with the goal of swiftly executing restoration activities. That is why we have concluded a Disaster Response Agreement with the Ministry of Defense and the Maritime Safety Agency to develop an action protocol for smooth cooperation in times of crisis.