In light of increased natural disasters and climate-induced calamities, emergency shelters are becoming a necessary part of society’s infrastructure. This need for shelters comes with an inherent risk of infectious outbreaks, putting the onus on facility managers to have a comprehensive infection control plan in place. As observed by NOAA, the United States witnessed a record of 28 major disasters in 2023, each costing in excess of $1 billion. This alarmingly surpassed the previous high of 22 registered in 2020 and further emphasized the emerging need for facilities that can offer refuge during these dangerous times. The shelters, however, must be no less safe in terms of potential for infectious outbreaks.
Firstly, facility administrators need to familiarize themselves with all corners of their institutions. This intimate knowledge is critical in identifying and rectifying probable sources of infection, especially because these structures are often converted into temporary shelters in a flurry during times of crisis. Overlooking this step could mean facing insurmountable challenges when disaster hits.
HVAC and ventilation systems demand immediate attention. Shelters, unlike hospitals, lack sophisticated infrastructure such as HEPA filtration systems. This necessitates an astute understanding of the capabilities of the shelter’s ventilation system. Managers should comprehend the extent to which they can manipulate ventilation to cater to various requirements. They should be aware of the air’s origin and where it is eventually discharged.
Sanitation and sewage systems are another focal point for planning. The usage of facilities as emergency shelters invariably deviates from their regular role, putting extra demand on these services. Individuals sheltering might wash clothes in sinks, toilets will be extensively used. Consequently, maintenance personnel should intensively monitor and continually clean these facilities to curb the spread of diseases.
Water supply assurance is paramount, serving both hygiene purposes and human consumption needs. Managers should be well-prepared with mechanism detailing how individuals will be channeled into the shelter during an emergency. Entrance control is vital, with distinctively marked zones for healthy individuals and those exhibiting symptoms suggestive of contagion. The plan should account for the collection of waste, both general and medical, and segregate them appropriately. Linens should be dedicated a particular location and handled exclusively with gloves. If feasible, generators should be kept ready and fuelled up to ensure power availability during the crisis.
These are some of the prime factors that facility managers should keep in mind while formulating a disaster management and infection control plan as they hold the responsibility of keeping temporary shelters safe during times of crisis.