Synopsis
This manual sets out plans and emergency procedures to be followed in the event of fire, bomb threat or other disasters, including the procedures to be followed should evacuation be necessary.
Although this manual has been developed with specific references to patient care areas of the hospital it is expected that the same principles for controlling emergencies and maintaining human life will apply to other areas of the hospital.
Copies of the manual are to be displayed in each occupied area of the hospital. Department Heads and senior staff are to know the contents and ensure that all staff members know and understand the alert system and how to respond to each type of emergency.
Hospital Fire Orders are located throughout the hospital adjacent to break glass alarms. As part of the induction process, Department Heads must ensure that each new employee is conversant with all aspects of the plan which directly affects them. Fire lectures are held regularly and all staff will be expected to attend at least one lecture each year and all new staff to attend the first session following their appointment.
Each emergency situation defined in the manual has been colour coded to assist staff in recognizing and reacting correctly to each emergency. How staff respond in the event of an emergency and before the arrival of professional assistance will in all cases influence the outcome. The first few minutes will be vital and therefore, it is important that staff respond immediately as directed in this manual.
Knowledge of the contents of this manual will develop confidence and ensure we are able to handle an emergency calmly and efficiently.
The Emergency Response Team has absolute authority in the management of the emergency until the arrival of the Emergency Services, at which time the Emergency Services will assume control with assistance from the Emergency Response Team.