Hospital Disaster Preparedness

Types of Exercises

There are 7 types of exercises. Exercises are either discussion based, or operations-based. Discussions-based exercises familiarize participants with current plans, policies, agreements and procedures, or may be used to develop new plans, policies, agreements, and procedures.

ShakeOut

ShakeOut is an annual earthquake drill and preparedness activity that promotes earthquake preparedness and safety. Originating in Southern California in 2008, ShakeOut has since expanded to other regions and countries around the world.

CalOES State Exercise Program

First implemented in 2004, Cal OES’ annual state-level exercise series has become the most comprehensive preparedness exercise program in the country. The annual exercise series is designed to assess emergency operations plans, policies, and procedures for all-hazards/catastrophic incidents at the local, regional, state, and federal levels.

CHA Checklist: Shelter-in-Place

CHA developed the attached the Shelter-In-Place Planning Checklist, which includes a decision-making algorithm for shelter-in-place and evacuation activation and may be used to assist hospitals with developing, reviewing, or updating their plans. The checklist is intended to help hospitals ensure that elements listed have been addressed in their plans, policies, and procedures.

Health Care System Emergency Response and Recovery Competencies

Developed by the Institute for Crisis, Disaster and Risk Management at George Washington University, these comprehensive guidelines are specific to health care emergency management and detail the roles and responsibilities of all personnel — including health care leaders, emergency management program managers, and patient care providers — during emergency response and recovery.

Recommended Disaster Core Competencies for Hospital Personnel

This core competencies list provides the disaster preparedness and response knowledge, skills and abilities needed by relevant types of hospital personnel given the current state of the art of CBRNE hazards and health care system vulnerabilities. Applying these competencies will assist hospitals in the development, implementation, coordination, and evaluation of disaster preparedness and response training programs.