Nope, not remote. Power has never gone out- hence the complacency. We have a huge diesel standby generator, but I would suppose it would take minutes to come on-line.
In accordance with JCAHO EC.2.14, testing of emergency power systems is required for certification. In my experience, most facilities that have backup generators will conduct a weekly "engine" test of their emergency generator, and a "load" test (usually simulated, although the more dedicated non-healthcare facilities will just turn off their incoming electrical feeders) once or twice a year. EC.2.14 recommends a monthly test under a simulated 50% load, or 30% of generator capacity.
Typical generator startup times, when automatically initiated by loss of normal power at the Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) are less than 30 seconds, and more usually, half that or better. In addition, many hospitals have, in addition, battery packs on designated egress lights (often those served by emergency power) that will result in immediate low-level lighting in corridors and stairwells, etc.
I was aghast when I saw the insufficient emergency lighting arrangements, frankly. I would like to find out what the options are then present them to the CEO of the hospital so this situation can be rectified. I'm only a doc who sees patients here. I don't own or manage the place!
I would suggest, before you go through that trouble, that you meet with the Director of Facilities or Director of Engineering, so that you can receive a briefing on the backup systems currently in place. I obviously have no idea if they are there or properly maintained, but you may want to check before you assume...
Re: the use of small lights- they are too small to be inventoried with a tag and would likely walk away. There's no way they are going to buy 123 batteries and inventory them.
Agreed, but there is nothing stopping the hospital from having sealed emergency management kits, just like mass casualty kits, that contain many flashlights, among other things. They would be inventoried before being placed in service, and then sealed with a single-use serialized shackle that is obviously broken if the container is opened. That way, they can be checked maybe once a year, or less if the documented shelf life of the components is longer than that. JCAHO may have something to say about that too, but I didn't bother to look.
I carry a flashlight EVERYWHERE, so I am not suggesting that this is a bad idea. I am only suggesting that many of the systems and procedures in place are transparent to you, the clinician, by design. Full-time staff (nurses, etc.) probably receive a more thorough in-briefing on such matters, so you could start by asking them.
Food for thought,
Dr. J
