Focus: Fire-Life Safety

Hospital smoking bans results in fewer fires

Number of fires from cigarettes and lighters drops in hospitals


U.S. hospitals have moved toward establishing smoke-free campuses to promote healthier lifestyles. But the 20-year movement has also seen a reduction in hospital fires, according to an article on The Bulletin website.

A new report by the National Fire Protection Association said smoking materials accounted for an average of 50 fires per year in hospitals and hospices from 2009 to 2013. 

That’s down from 100 fires per year from 2006 to 2010, and 3,800 fires per year from 1980 to 1984, when nearly half of smoking-related fires occurred in patient rooms.

In the early ’80s, smoking materials accounted for 30 percent of all hospital and hospice fires, but today cause less than 4 percent of the total.

Read the article.

 

 

 



December 13, 2016


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

Elevating EVS Professionals: The Case for Certified Hygiene Specialists

Workers cleaning patient rooms are not simply improving appearance. They are reducing bioburden and protecting human health.


Global Handwashing Day and the Importance of Well-Maintained Restrooms

A recent handwashing survey found that Americans value clean restrooms and touchless fixtures.


Duke Health and CaroMont Health Partner to Develop Two New Hospitals

CaroMont Health and Duke Health anticipate a decision by the end of March 2027.


Designing for the Psychology of Waiting

A well-designed waiting room does more than fill time — it eases the patient experience and creates a more functional healthcare environment.


UT Health Sciences Breaks Ground on College of Medicine Interdisciplinary Building

Construction is expected to be substantially completed in 2029, with full occupancy by 2030.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.