The safety net dental clinic will need to develop and implement a comprehensive plan for emergency preparedness and response. Policies and procedures for response to disasters or emergencies of both natural and manmade origin, including but not limited to tornadoes, hurricanes, ice storms and snowstorms, earthquakes, bomb threats, and bio-terrorism, should be covered in the written plan. The size and complexity of your clinic (oral health only vs. health center) will determine how complex your plan needs to be. Design your plan to eliminate any confusion before, during, and after a crisis or emergency, and to help you steer a course back to normal operations.
Detailed instructions on emergency preparedness and response can be obtained from OSHA.
Emergency Preparedness Plan Topics