Question

Describe fire safety issues in an ambulatory healthcare environment. (How can fires be avoided? What should be available in case of a fire and what should you do when there is a fire?)

Answer 1

Answer:

Ambulatory health care facilities shall reduce the potential of a fire incidence or emergency by their design and planning, building process, maintenance procedures and operation

Explanation:

Due to the nature of ambulatory health care the safety of the people directly involved in the health care activities cannot be based on building evacuation adequately in the event of a fire incidence and as such it is required that the following standard should be in place

1) Sufficient and trained staff in fire fighting

2) Adequate facility arrangement for fire safety

3) Proper maintenance and operating procedures including;

a. Fire detection and alarm system,

b. Fire extinguisher systems

c. Planning for fire prevention

d. Fire drill programs for fire control

e. Designated safe areas and evacuation procedures.