The FIRST action an employer should take when a natural disaster occurs is:

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

When a natural disaster occurs, the first priority of any employer should be to ensure the safety and well-being of employees.

Step 1: Confirm employee safety – Employers should account for all employees and provide immediate assistance if needed.

Step 2: Assess business operations impact – Once employees are safe, the employer can begin securing records and office space.

Option A is incorrect because accessing payroll records is important but secondary to employee safety.

Option C is incorrect because temporary housing is not the employer’s primary responsibility.

Option D is incorrect because securing office space is a later step in disaster recovery.