Hospitals must continue operating during earthquakes while protecting vulnerable patients, staff, and critical equipment. Power failures, falling medical devices, and sudden patient movement create complex risks. As a disaster specialist, I explain how hospitals prepare for and respond to earthquakes safely.
■① Secure Life-Saving Equipment and Medical Infrastructure
Before earthquakes occur, hospitals should:
- Anchor medical devices, shelves, and monitors
- Secure oxygen tanks and gas lines
- Protect power systems and backup generators
- Install seismic restraints on ceiling equipment
Preventing equipment failure protects patients during shaking.
■② During Shaking: Prioritize Patient Protection
When strong shaking begins:
- Staff should protect patients’ heads and airways
- Secure beds and wheelchairs
- Do not attempt evacuation during shaking
- Maintain life-support systems if possible
Immediate patient safety comes before movement.
■③ Maintain Critical Services During Power and System Failures
Hospitals must be ready for:
- Automatic generator activation
- Manual operation of essential equipment
- Limited lighting and communication
- Rapid triage and prioritization
Redundant systems save lives when infrastructure fails.
■④ Evacuation Decisions Must Be Carefully Controlled
Evacuation is complex and dangerous:
- Only evacuate when structures are unsafe
- Move critical patients last when possible
- Use preplanned evacuation routes
- Coordinate with emergency responders
Unplanned evacuation can be more dangerous than sheltering in place.
■⑤ Support Staff Mental and Physical Resilience
Healthcare workers face extreme pressure. Hospitals should:
- Rotate staff to prevent exhaustion
- Provide psychological support
- Ensure rest, hydration, and nutrition
- Communicate clearly and frequently
A supported medical team performs better under crisis.
■Summary
Earthquake safety in hospitals depends on secured infrastructure, calm patient protection, system redundancy, controlled evacuation, and resilient staff support. Hospitals that prepare in advance can continue life-saving operations even under severe seismic stress, protecting both patients and healthcare workers.
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