| 1999
Hurricane Season
Have a plan; know if you should be here The 1999 hurricane season is expected to be a busy one. Last year Charleston had a hurricane-free season, but precautions are always necessary Employee Responsibility The added emphasis this year is on the responsibility of each employee. “Employees need to know if they are required to be here or not,” said Susan Pletcher, director, Patient Access Services and Health Information Services. “Every department should have a plan. Employees should check with their manager or supervisor if they are unsure if they are required to be here throughout the weather emergency.” Emergency Phone System In case of a hurricane threatening Charleston, the MUSC Medical Center would use the Health Connection Telephone System to keep employees updated on the status of the hospital weather emergency plan. When a weather emergency is declared, the program will allow designated managers to dial into the automated phone system to post schedules and updates. Employees can call a toll-free number and punch in designated access codes. Pocket size green cards will be available from managers and supervisors. These cards explain employee responsibilities during a weather emergency. On the back is a list of all department codes. According to Al Nesmith, director of Safety, Security and Volunteer Services and disaster control officer for MUSC, if the medical center’s phone lines are protected, the automated phone system will allow employees to access at their convenience information on when and how to report to work. Hospital Identification Employees required to work during a weather emergency must have their hospital ID with them always. Car placards that hang from mirrors are needed for passing through police security in the city, and access to garage parking. Pet Care These employees also have pet care available to them in case of an emergency. All pets must be crated or caged, and labeled with the name of the pet, the owner, the work area and phone number. Current immunization records are mandatory-rabies, DHLPP/C, and ITT (Bordetella) for dogs, rabies, distemper and feline leukemia for cats. Pets will not be accepted without these papers. Food, water, and medication for 72 hours must be provided, along with any special instructions. Dogs must have a collar with ID tag and leash so they may be walked. The cost for this emergency service is $5 per pet. Phone Numbers The local access line for employees required to be at work during a medical emergency is 792-1414 or the national toll-free Health Connection line at 1-800-424-MUSC. Non-medical employees, students and the public can obtain information by calling MUSC’s 24-hour information line, 792-MUSC. |