Houston hospital declares 'internal disaster' after water main breaks

Declaring a systemwide internal disaster helped manage ambulance and patient volume

A system-wide "internal disaster" was declared by the Harris Health System after a water pipe break at Ben Taub Hospital in Houston, according to an article on the Becker's Hospital Review website.

The hospital postponed some elective procedures, went on ambulance diversion status and assessed resources for relocating affected patients.

Ninety-one inpatient beds are out of service due to the water damage.

Declaring a systemwide internal disaster allowed Harris to manage ambulance and patient volume.

Read the article.

September 16, 2019

Topic Area: Safety

Recent Posts

Building Envelope Design: Beyond Energy Efficiency

An integrated approach to envelope design can create more comfortable and energy-efficient hospitals.

Outpatient Surge Reshapes Long-Term Strategy for Medical Outpatient Buildings

Demographic tailwinds, policy uncertainty and shifting care models are pushing health systems to rethink how and where they invest in outpatient facilities.

Mercy Medical Center to Be Integrated into Baystate Health

Until the transition is complete and receives all regulatory approvals, Mercy Medical Center and Baystate Health will continue to operate independently.

Managing IAQ in Healthcare Facilities During Wildfires

Wildfires are becoming more prevalent across the country. Facilities must be prepared to handle their effects on air quality.

Building Hospital Resilience in an Era of Extreme Weather

Expert Jennifer Mahan discusses the vulnerabilities healthcare facilities face during disasters and the infrastructure strategies that keep operations running.

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.

Job Board ‐ Available Jobs

Building Engineer - Bluffton, SC »