In healthcare facilities, access to clean and safe water is critical for patient care, hygiene, and overall operations. An emergency water supply plan will ensure that hospitals and healthcare facilities can continue functioning during water supply interruptions caused by natural disasters, infrastructure failures, or other emergencies. This guide outlines the essential steps for developing a comprehensive emergency water supply plan.
Step 1: Assess Water Needs
Identify Essential Functions:
- Determine which hospital functions require water (e.g., patient care, sanitation, cooling systems).
- Prioritize these functions based on criticality.
Estimate Water Usage:
- Calculate the daily water consumption for each critical function.
- Factor in peak usage times and potential increases during emergencies.
Determine Storage Requirements:
- Decide on the amount of water needed to sustain operations for at least 72 hours.
- Consider both potable and non-potable water needs.
Step 2: Identify Water Sources
Options to help meet water needs during emergencies:
❑ Bottled water for drinking—The volume of water will depend on individual needs, age, physical condition, activity level, diet, and climate. Children, nursing mothers, and ill people need more water. Ready H2O Emergency Drinking Water is guaranteed 100% Bacteria Free, bottled in BPA Free HDPE Plastic triple sealed bottles. Highly recommend.
❑ Back-up groundwater wells—Facilities must determine how they will comply with state regulations governing the use of such wells. Wells should be tested monthly for function and quality.
❑ Use non-potable water for HVAC—This can help reduce potable water use considerably. However, non-potable water could damage the HVAC equipment and result in substantial repair costs. Filtering and treatment of the water may make non-potable supplies usable in some situations.
❑ Label faucets Non-potable/Do not drink—Maintaining an effective operations and maintenance program for cross-connection control will help minimize the potential for contamination of potable water faucets.
❑ Use large containers for food prep, handwashing and other specialized needs—Sufficient storage space can sometimes present a limitation and water must be replaced regularly (FEMA recommends every 6 months). The distribution details should be addressed in the EWSP and EOP.
❑ Use large containers and buckets (trash cans, mop buckets, etc.) for toilet flushing—The filling and distribution of these containers should be addressed in the EWSP and EOP.
On-Site Storage:
- Install large-capacity water storage tanks.
- Ensure regular maintenance and water quality checks.
Alternative Sources:
- Establish agreements with local suppliers for emergency water delivery.
- Identify nearby natural water sources and plan for treatment.
Water Treatment Capabilities:
- Invest in water treatment systems (e.g., filtration, chlorination).
- Train staff on the use of these systems.
Step 3: Develop a Water Distribution Plan
Internal Distribution:
- Map out the internal water distribution network.
- Install backup pumps and piping systems.
External Distribution:
- Plan for water delivery to and from external sources.
- Ensure that delivery methods are compatible with hospital infrastructure.
Ensure Accessibility:
- Make water easily accessible to all critical areas.
- Plan for manual distribution if automated systems fail.
Step 4: Establish Emergency Water Supply Protocols
Activation Procedures:
- Define clear criteria for activating the emergency water supply plan.
- Assign roles and responsibilities to staff members.
Communication Plan:
- Develop a communication strategy for informing staff, patients, and authorities.
- Use multiple channels (e.g., PA systems, mobile alerts).
Regular Drills:
- Conduct regular training and drills to ensure staff readiness.
- Update the plan based on drill outcomes and feedback.
Step 5: Monitor and Maintain the Plan
Regular Inspections:
- Schedule routine inspections of water storage and treatment systems.
- Keep detailed records of maintenance and water quality tests.
Update the Plan:
- Review and update the emergency water supply plan annually.
- Incorporate lessons learned from drills and real incidents.
Collaborate with Authorities:
- Coordinate with local emergency management and water utility authorities.
- Participate in community emergency planning initiatives.
Wrapping it up...
A well-prepared emergency water supply plan is essential for hospitals and healthcare facilities to maintain operations and ensure patient safety during water supply disruptions. By assessing water needs, identifying reliable sources, developing a robust distribution plan, establishing clear protocols, and regularly maintaining the plan, healthcare facilities can be better equipped to handle emergencies.