Houston hospital declares 'internal disaster' after water main breaks

Declaring a systemwide internal disaster helped manage ambulance and patient volume

A system-wide "internal disaster" was declared by the Harris Health System after a water pipe break at Ben Taub Hospital in Houston, according to an article on the Becker's Hospital Review website.

The hospital postponed some elective procedures, went on ambulance diversion status and assessed resources for relocating affected patients.

Ninety-one inpatient beds are out of service due to the water damage.

Declaring a systemwide internal disaster allowed Harris to manage ambulance and patient volume.

Read the article.

September 16, 2019

Topic Area: Safety

Recent Posts

17 Million Patient Records Stolen in PIH Health Ransomware Attack

A ransomware attack halted operations across three of PIH’s hospitals.

Holidays are Prime Times for Healthcare Cyberattacks

A study found that 86 percent of organizations that experienced ransomware attacks were targeted on a holiday or weekend.

Hartford Healthcare Forms Partnership to Open Health Equity Clinic

The new clinic will open in January 2025.

UCHealth Reveals Plans for Memorial Hospital North Expansion

Construction on the patient tower is slated for 2026 with a projected opening to patients in 2029.

What Are 'Hospi-tels'?

Hospitals and hotels are partnering to better cater to patients and families.

FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Job Board ‐ Available Jobs

Lead Engineer l Eneration »

Town of Vail Building Maintenance Specialist »