Hospitals are very dangerous fire hazards. They use a high variety of inflammable and explosive chemicals and equipment plus a variety of electrical apparatuses. There generally are no open flames, smoking or incendiary devices allowed in a hospital, but mistakes can happen.

Hospital Equipment

The key functions of the hospital can include devices and equipment that is highly susceptible to fire and electrical malfunctions. Radiology, biochemistry, pathology, laboratory, pharmacies, operating and patient rooms contain highly flammable devices and fumes and there are also storage facilities for hazardous chemicals as well as electrical distribution. If the hospital is on the list of med-flights, there are also helicopter engine fuels to consider.

– Radiology contains film and high technology to diagnose x-rays. There are large electrical equipment devices that necessitate cords to be strung through walls and often across floors. Yet, the possibility of electrical shock is relatively low due to OSHA regulations and grounding requirements. You can take fire and electrical safety classes from HIPAA to know the proper measures in case of fire or electrical problems.

– X-ray equipment is uses high voltage and must have the proper ventilation to guarantee machine cooling. There also needs to be a high fire rated construction materials in an x-ray room to keep the patients and staff safe. No combustible materials are allowed in the construction of the roof, walls or near electrical equipment. Fire regulations require that the x-ray room be a certain height and size to keep fire danger low.

– To protect patient and staff there is absolutely no smoking in or around a hospital. Every patient room includes oxygen that is high flammable and even a small spark could set off a fire of catastrophic proportions. Rules and regulations require that oxygen be installed in out of the way places in the room, but there is always danger.

The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Operations which includes hospitals is not always posted, but there are basic guidelines that healthcare providers are aware of and trained in. Fire safety in a hospital is very important to patient protection and rules to fire and electrical safety in a hospital setting are:

– Keep equipment in good working condition. Medical equipment fires and shorts are caused by faulty equipment or equipment that is outdated.

– All wall sockets and plugs need to be tagged and identified. Hospitals have adopted different color codes and labeling to indicate usage or voltage.

– Fire extinguishers and sprinklers need to always be in working order. The fire department in your area may have established a scheduled inspection time that occurs every week.

– Evacuation plans must be current and posted. Detail who is responsible for which area and keep copies in every hall and corridor. Have safety drills, education and training.

Each hospital needs to set up exhaustive guidelines. Work with your local fire and electrical departments to get the most detailed guidelines you can. You may purchase fire and electrical guides from JCAHO.

For more information, please visit our Fire and Electrical Safety Training website.

For more information, please visit our Fire and Electrical Safety Training website http://www.hipaaexams.com/fire-and-electrical-safety-training.asp

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Category: Medical Business
Keywords: Fire and Electrical Safety Training