Merck 2008 Annual Report Download - page 69

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64 | Merck Annual Report 2008
Information technology risks
Business-critical application systems and access to business-relevant data are set up in
such a way that, even in the event of individual failures, they are continually available
thanks to redundant technical components, networks and sites.
Security guidelines are in place for the entire Merck Group that include appropriate
organizational, technical and software-related precautions for access control, access
rights, virus protection and data protection. The adherence to and efficacy of these
measures are continuously monitored. A dedicated IT risk management process ensures
that IT risks are evaluated and appropriate measures taken. This has been confirmed by
successful ISO 20000 and ISO 27001 certifications.
Environmental and safety risks
Global adherence to high technical and corporate governance standards prevents poten-
tial damage, minimizes the potential effects of such damage, and thus ensures the con-
tinuity of plant and equipment. Merck updates these preventive measures regularly; we
systematically carry out internal health and environmental safety audits, and through
checks and advice, we minimize the risks to people and the environment.
Management assessment of the overall risk situation
Currently no risks can be identified that could jeopardize the continued existence of
the Merck Group. This is the finding of this risk report, which was prepared in accor-
dance with German Accounting Standard 5.
Report on expected developments
At the present time, overall economic environment cannot be assessed. Within just a
short period of time, the U.S. subprime mortgage and banking crisis developed into a
global financial and economic crisis. The dynamics of this development, coupled with
the complexity and interdependencies of the global financial and real markets, is
without precedent. The resulting uncertainties reflect the transitory nature of all the
economic forecasts made during the past year and the grotesque miscalculations.
These special circumstances make it impossible for us to give any quantitative fore-
casts. Likewise, qualitative statements concerning trends are – in view of the strong
dynamics and limited soundness of such estimates – at the present time not compatible
with the planning horizon provided for in this management report.
Subsequent events
There were no material events at Merck after the balance sheet date.