Clinic Plan: Evacuation

Purpose:

To ensure the safety of all patients, staff, and visitors during an emergency requiring evacuation, and to establish clear procedures for providing appropriate care and follow-up support once the immediate danger has passed.

Policy

The clinic is committed to maintaining a safe environment and ensuring continuity of care during and after emergencies. All staff must follow established evacuation procedures, assist patients according to their needs and abilities, and participate in post incident care and documentation. This policy applies to all clinic personnel, including therapists who primarily work in the field but may provide services in the clinic.

Emergency Evacuation Procedure

Activation of Emergency Response

• Evacuation begins when an alarm sounds, an emergency alert is issued, or a staff member identifies an immediate threat (e.g., fire, gas leak, structural hazard).

• OPT Administrator assumes temporary command until emergency responders arrive.

Staff Responsibilities

All Staff: Remain calm and provide clear, simple instructions to patients and visitors while escorting patients to the nearest safe exit, following posted evacuation routes.

  

Front Desk Staff:   Must take Sign-In Sheets to account for persons on-site

Therapists:  Responsible for assisting their patients to the designated meeting area

OPT Administrator:  Check restrooms and private treatment areas 

 

Assembly Area

The meeting location is in the parking area in front of the Center.  If shelter is needed, Tamarac Elementary School is the designated shelter.

 

OPT Administrator to conduct a headcount using the patient sign-in sheet and report any missing persons to emergency responders immediately.

In the event of an actual emergency (not a drill), re-entry to the building will not be permitted until the local fire or policy authority gives clearance. If this occurs, staff are responsible for coordinating transportation for patients and clients. Staff will remain on-site until the disposition of patients, clients, or visitors is completed.

Mitigation

Through routine testing and drills, LifeCare will ensure all staff can respond promptly to an emergency evacuation. Results of the emergency evacuation test will be maintained in writing.

Corrective action, if needed, is the responsibility of the OPT Administrator.