Dateline DFCI
Institute enhances emergency preparations in 9/11 wake
The terrorist threats of September and beyond forced Dana-Farber — like virtually every workplace and health-care organization around the country — to refocus attention on disaster planning.
While continuing to carry out its mission to stamp out cancer, DFCI has taken steps to ready its staff and resources to address future emergencies at the Institute or in the Boston area, should they occur.
After the Sept. 11 terrorist strikes, area workers had an opportunity to contribute to the cause at DFCI's Kraft Family Blood Donor Center.
"We have many systems in place, including a bioterrorism plan written well before Sept. 11, and we work continually to make sure all employees understand their roles," says Elizabeth Gross, MS, CIH, director of Environmental Health and Safety. "As a health-care provider, we must always be prepared for the unexpected."
A leadership team meets regu-larly to review policies, procedures, and possible vulnerable areas, and Institute officials coordinate emergency efforts with other hospitals and state agencies.
Among other activities, Dana-Farber has tightened security of its entrances, mailroom, and equipment, and audited the hazardous chemicals and biological and radioactive materials used in DFCI labs. An internal Web site was set up to keep staff abreast of news, and evacuation drills have been conducted in all buildings.
With emotions running high everywhere after the terrorist strikes, the Institute mobilized quickly to support patients and staff. Social workers, psychologists, and chaplains counseled members of the DFCI community, and discussions were held about handling stress and how to talk with children about the tragedies.
A blood drive at the Kraft Family Blood Donor Center enabled area health-care workers to contribute, and food planned for a canceled Sept. 12 staff celebration was donated to a community agency, helping to feed 650 AIDS patients and their families.
