Preparing for the Possibility of Large-Scale Blackouts
by Aon
Published On: Jun 22, 2012 Super Storms: Preparing for Large-Scale Blackouts is a white paper created by CNA and provided by Aon that discusses scenarios and suggests strategies to:
- Protect residents/patients and staff.
- Avoid service interruptions.
- Minimize equipment damage.
- Reduce liability exposure.
A geomagnetic disturbance may strike at any time, potentially disrupting the electrical grid and creating power and communication outages.
For healthcare organizations, a black-out of this magnitude could have serious consequences in terms of resident/patient safety and basic operating capabilities.
Many basic systems and processes could be impacted, including:
- Water pumping and treatment.
- Heating, cooling and ventilation.
- Gas and electrical lines.
- Cellular phone networks, the Internet and other communication challenges.
- Rail lines, public transit and traffic signals.
- Food and fuel distribution.
- Drug and medical supply acquisition.
- Computer infrastructure.
- Financial transactions.