Page 39 - Security Today, April 2021

to assist with the security of vaccine storage and distribution.
A document was created to address considerations in the securing and distribution of the coronavirus vaccine, “Consid- erations in the Securing and Distribution of the Coronavirus Vaccine.” Hospitals recognize the role they play as the vaccine is distributed to facilities throughout the country. A storage plan is provided along with storage requirements specific to the vaccines currently approved by the FDA as well as a call for hospitals to update security plans to include steps in keeping the vaccine safe. As a group, potential risks were taken into account, and consid- erations were implemented to think about every step of receiv- ing, storing, tracking and distributing the vaccine before it even reaches the facility. Following these guidelines, hospitals will be
better prepared in securing the entire vaccination process. Security has proven to be more essential than ever in the healthcare world as the chaotic, uncertain nature of the corona- virus has created new threats for patients and healthcare workers
within the walls of a hospital.
HEALTHCARE SECURITY LESSONS
The pandemic has taught us several lessons when it comes to hospital safety and security. For example, it is critical for hospi- tals to develop mutual aid relationships, consider contracts for emergency security staffing during disasters, and establish ap- propriate/regulatory “Just-in-Time” training modules for various disaster scenarios.
Additionally, hospitals should preplan and develop contracts for PPE and other equipment that security may need during a
“The updated guideline outlines additional, essential security services with mitigation strategies to address the planned changes in protocol.”
disaster. The security leader provides an excellent partner to the hospital emergency manager in developing a robust “All Hazards Emergency Operations Plan.” It is also crucial to take care of the physical and mental health of the team. A strong team creates a dependable foundation for an environment that is prepared for the evolving challenges this pandemic continues to create.
At the start of 2021, and round out a year of responding to the challenges of the coronavirus, security professionals continue to demonstrate the value of comprehensive security services in hospitals. Hospital staff recognize that health systems are being tasked with controlling costs and cutting budgets while maintain- ing the highest levels of patient care, safety and privacy.
These facts heighten the awareness of the new role played by security services in this ever-evolving healthcare
landscape. With proper guidelines, preparation is
necessary for success in the process of distribut-
ing a vaccine across the country while adhering to the highest level of safety considerations.
Lisa Terry, CHPA, CPP, is the vice president of Vertical Markets-Healthcare, at Allied Universal.
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