Facility security — Healthcare

Scope

Healthcare employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace for their workers. A secure facility is vital for the for the safety of employees, visitors, and patients. This information applies to healthcare facilities such as doctor’s offices, laboratories, hospitals, in-patient care, long-term care facilities, and nursing homes.

Regulatory citations

• 29 CFR 1910.38 — Emergency action plans
• 29 CFR 1910.39 — Fire prevention plans
• 29 CFR 1910.1200 — Hazard Communication
• General Duty Clause 5(a)(1)

Key definitions

• Biological hazards: Living organisms that can cause infectious diseases and allergies. Some have the potential to create significant illnesses that can be widespread. These are found in laboratories
• Chemical hazards: Chemicals that can cause injuries, illnesses, or environmental damage. These chemicals can be explosive, corrosive, sensitizers, and can be deadly if mishandled.
• Radiation: Energy traveling through space. Ionizing radiation from x-ray machines or lasers, can be hazardous to health and cause illnesses.

Summary of requirements

A healthcare provider should consider taking one or more of the following steps to prevent unauthorized facility access:

Workplace violence

• Create a workplace violence program and provide employee training.
• Train employees to notify security and supervision before situations escalate.
• Establish partnerships with local law enforcement officials, emergency responders, and other public safety agencies with jurisdiction over a facility.
• Request a review of the facility and security program by local law enforcement officials.
• Restrict the availability of information related to the facility and materials handled.
• Encourage authorities in possession of information about the facility to limit disclosure of that information on a need-to-know basis.
• Add security guards and increase off-hours patrols by security or law enforcement personnel.

Biological and chemical hazards

• Control access to hazardous chemicals and biohazards.
• Prevent unauthorized access to laboratories and chemical storage areas. Utilize a tracking system to monitor access and track usage.
• Ensure the EAP and FPP account for the hazards present and how they could be impacted in an emergency.

General facility security

• Install additional lights, alarm systems, or surveillance cameras.
• Restrict access to a single entry or gate.
• Place limits on visitor access. Require visitors to register and show photo identification and have someone accompany visitors at all times.
• Require employees to display identification cards or badges.
• Upgrade security procedures for handling pick-ups and deliveries at the facility.
• Verify all paperwork and require pick-ups and deliveries be handled only by appointment with known vendors.
• Require vendors to call before a delivery and to provide the driver’s name and vehicle number.
• Accept packages and deliveries only at the facility’s front gate.
• Keep records of security incidents. Review records to identify trends and potential vulnerabilities.