Health care providers should be aware that electronic door closing may be compromised in the event of a fire emergency and be prepared to monitor and ensure fire doors are closed manually if necessary. Sanitary, running water is an integral part of utilities necessary for providing patient care. If this utility is disrupted, conservation becomes essential. Most hospitals have arrangements for a portable sanitary water supply in the event of an emergency. Check with your faculty or supervisor for ongoing directions about water conservation if this utility is disrupted.
Plumbing is a part of a hospital utility system and problems can and do occur.
If identified, get directions on getting the problem fixed by contacting the appropriate department immediately. Although it is uncommon, heating system failures could be a critical utility failure , especially for a prolonged period of time in very cold weather. Hospitals have made arrangements for transfer of patient populations if this ever becomes necessary due to any utility failure which would seriously compromise patient care. Air conditioning can be another utility failure which could pose serious problems especially in today's non-opening window environments. The air filtration system is part of the heating and cooling process along with humidification or dehumidification.