Studio Emergency Preparation

 Following closely on the heels of the Recording Academy Producers & Engineers Wing releasing its 2025 Delivery Recommendations for Recorded Music Projects, the organization has released a comprehensive new resource designed to help recording professionals prepare for natural disasters, unforeseen emergencies and business interruptions. Titled Studio Emergency Preparation Recommendations, the guide provides essential protocols and actionable steps for studio owners, engineers and music creators working in commercial or home-based recording environments. For a Q&A on the guide with Vice President of the Recording Academy Producers & Engineers Wing Maureen Droney and mastering engineer Anna Frick, click here.

At the upcoming AES Show 2025 in Long Beach on October 24 from 1:15pm-2:15pm PDT, the Recording Academy Producers & Engineers Wing will present a panel discussion titled "Studio Emergency Preparation." This session, based on the release of the Guide, will address a critical challenge for today's recording professionals: how to prepare for, and respond effectively to, operational disruptions and natural and climate-related disasters.

The idea for this vital new resource was initially proposed by Frick, who was forced to evacuate her studio during the 2021 Colorado wildfires. Her experience highlighted the critical need for a unified and practical tool for the recording community – one that could help protect lives, gear, data and livelihoods in moments of crisis.

"Our hope is that no one ever has to put this document to use because of a disaster," said Droney. "But, in a world increasingly impacted by natural disasters and unpredictable hazards, being prepared can make all the difference. This guide empowers our community to take proactive steps to safeguard their creative spaces and maintain business continuity during the most challenging times."

Frick added, "In the moment, when you're facing the threat of losing everything, it's extremely difficult to think clearly or know what to prioritize. Having a plan, and knowing you've already done the hard thinking, can make all the difference. I hope this guide gives peace of mind to others in our community and helps them protect not just their gear, but their creative future."

The Studio Emergency Preparation Recommendations document includes a detailed Quick Reference Guide Worksheet for capturing essential studio and emergency information, a one-sheet tip list for improving everyday safety, and comprehensive instructions on risk assessment, hazard-specific planning and insurance considerations. It also offers studio-focused strategies for business continuity, emergency communication and remote work. Drawing on FEMA guidelines, insurance experts and real-world experiences from working studio professionals, the guide provides practical insights to help reduce downtime and avoid unnecessary losses. Additional resources include information on post-disaster assistance programs such as MusiCares®, FEMA aid and SBA disaster relief loans.

"This document is not just about protecting equipment, it's about preserving your ability to create, collaborate and sustain your business in the face of adversity," added Droney. "We encourage everyone in the recording and music community to review it, customize it for your environment and revisit it regularly. We also are sincerely grateful to all who contributed their time, expertise and insight to the development of this document. A special thanks goes to Anna Frick for initiating and co-authoring the recommendations with Candice Yang; to Mickey Ellenwood at FEMA, Tracy Wronoski at The Recording Studio Insurance Program and Jessica Boswell at Marsh for their expert guidance; and to studio professionals Tina Morris, Curtis Daniel III, Zoe Thrall, Lynne Earls, Michael Grace, Lewis Robertson, and Nick Autry for their valuable feedback throughout the process."

Pricing and Availability:
The Studio Emergency Preparation Recommendations guide is available as a free download via the Recording Academy Producers & Engineers Wing webpage

More information:

• The Studio Emergency Preparation Recommendations guide

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