UNAIR NEWS 鈥 A robust Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) system is a critical component of ensuring the well-being of patients, healthcare workers, and visitors in hospitals. Given the wide range of hazards present in healthcare facilities, hospitals must be equipped with comprehensive preparedness measures to respond effectively to potential emergencies and disasters. This is especially important because hospitals serve vulnerable populations, including critically ill patients, older adults, pregnant women, children, and individuals with disabilities.
Dr. Neffrety Nilamsari, S.Sos., M.Kes., a lecturer in the Occupational Health and Safety Applied Bachelor鈥檚 Program at the Faculty of Vocational Studies, 东京热 (UNAIR), said hospitals inherently face numerous safety risks that require careful management.
鈥淭he recent fire at a major hospital in East Java serves as a reminder that implementing OHS measures to prevent workplace accidents and fire incidents is not optional, it is essential,鈥 she said.
Emergency preparedness drills can help prevent fatalities
Dr. Nilamsari explained that effective OHS management is closely tied to a hospital鈥檚 ability to respond to emergencies. Her remarks align with Indonesia鈥檚 Health Law No. 17 of 2023, which requires healthcare facilities to maintain disaster preparedness and emergency response systems.
鈥淧reparedness must be supported by multiple factors, including adequate evacuation routes and supporting infrastructure. Hospitals must also establish clear chains of command and standardized procedures for evacuation and disaster mitigation that apply to healthcare workers, patients, visitors, and anyone else present within the facility,鈥 she said.
She added that hospitals should conduct disaster-response simulations regularly, ideally every two months throughout the year, as part of their preventive preparedness efforts. According to Dr. Nilamsari, designated personnel at each hospital play a vital role in coordinating evacuation procedures and disaster mitigation measures, helping reduce the likelihood of casualties during emergencies.
Safety culture and leadership commitment remain critical
Dr. Nilamsari noted that limited resources and insufficient awareness of workplace safety continue to pose challenges to OHS management in many hospitals. She said some healthcare administrators still view safety programs primarily as an added expense, rather than as a long-term investment that protects patients, staff, and hospital operations.
鈥淭oo often, OHS implementation is associated with significant costs. For example, in pharmaceutical units, as highlighted by the recent hospital fire, facilities should use dry chemical powder extinguishers or carbon dioxide extinguishers rather than standard powder extinguishers because they are more effective in controlling fires. Details such as these deserve greater attention,鈥 she said.
She emphasized that commitment from hospital leadership is the cornerstone of a successful OHS program. Such commitment supports the creation of emergency response teams, the routine implementation of disaster drills, regular inspections of facilities and equipment, and continuous monitoring and evaluation, all of which are essential for maintaining an effective safety management system.
鈥淲e need to cultivate greater awareness of workplace safety, beginning with ourselves, and remain vigilant at all times. While disasters may occur unexpectedly, proper preparation can significantly reduce their impact and help prevent loss of life and property damage,鈥 she concluded.
Author: Amelia Farah P I
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati聽
