IT Risks

We continually monitor our use of information technology and do everything we can to ensure that IT-supported business processes function reliably. Long-term failure of IT systems or a major loss of key data could substantially impair WACKER’s operations. Our IT security and risk management specialists are responsible for handling hazards in a cost-efficient way. Their work is based on ISO 27001. Using risk analyses, we define the requirements for WACKER’s central systems – both in terms of availability, and data integrity and confidentiality. We anchor these requirements in service level agreements (SLAs) in our business divisions and corporate departments. Compliance is continually monitored and controlled. As a result, we can immediately take countermeasures in the event of malfunctions. For 2009, we set – and exceeded – an availability goal of 99.5% for our central ERP (enterprise resource planning) systems. We primarily achieved this by designing our systems for maximum availability and by installing an associated backup and recovery procedure. In addition, we took appropriate steps to prepare for emergencies (business continuity management).

Over 99% IT-System Availability in 2009

To minimize project-related IT risks, we adhere to a uniform project-management methodology. This ensures changes are integrated into our system landscape in a controlled manner. As part of risk management, we log and evaluate operation-related risks and initiate specific countermeasures. We use state-of-the-art hardware and software solutions to prevent network downtime, data loss or manipulation, and unauthorized access to our network. We counter “malware” attacks on our IT systems with efficient software security programs. At regular intervals, we also conduct penetration tests and audits at WACKER’s domestic and foreign sites (e.g. at internet access points) to prevent hacker attacks.

Due to the extensive integration of IT in all corporate processes, any prolonged downtime of our central IT systems would have a major effect on Wacker Chemie AG’s financial situation. However, thanks to our precautionary measures, we continue to classify the probability of long-term downtime and the associated risks as being low.