Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) Practice

What measure does the hospital take when a fire alarm system is impaired?

1. Installation of a new fire system

2. Provision of temporary but equivalent fire alarm systems

3. Complete evacuation of the building

4. Increased fire drills

The correct answer is: Provision of temporary but equivalent fire alarm systems

When a fire alarm system is impaired, the most appropriate measure for a hospital to take is the provision of temporary but equivalent fire alarm systems. This approach ensures that while the primary fire alarm system is not operational, the safety of the occupants is still prioritized by maintaining a functional fire detection and notification capability. Employing temporary systems can include portable alarms or temporary installations that can effectively alert staff and patients to any fire-related incidents, thereby reducing the risk of injury or loss of life during the impairment. This strategy is an important aspect of emergency preparedness and risk management in healthcare facilities, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and maintaining a safe environment. The other measures, such as installing an entirely new fire system, complete evacuation, or increasing fire drills, do not address the immediate need for fire detection and alarm capabilities during the impairment of the existing system. While those options may be necessary in other contexts or at later stages, they do not provide the effective immediate solution needed when a fire alarm system is compromised.