Risk Assessment of the Najmieh Hospital Electricity System using Energy Trace and Barrier Analysis Method

Abstract

Introduction: Considering application of multiple electrical equipment, numerous occupational accidents occur in hospitals each year. Electrical accidents are severe and impose high costs on the individuals and organizations. The aim of this study was to assess the risk of electrical systems in one of the oldest hospitals under supervision of Baqiyatallah University using energy trace and barrier analysis method (ETBA).

Methods and Materials: All wall plugs, switches, stationary and portable equipment, and stationary and portable electrical panel were evaluated in terms of earthing and appearance. This was done using a simple voltmeter and a 100-watt bulb. All equipment and electrical panel were examined for the presence of Residual Current Device. The ETBA worksheets were completed for each equipment and workstation. The existing barriers were identified and initial risk reduction numbers were calculated. Barriers and solutions were suggested for the equipment or workstation that was at higher risk. Controlled risk was calculated by considering new barriers.

Results: The ETBA worksheets were completed for 71 devices and workstations. The initial and controlled risk was calculated. Surveys revealed that all sections of the main building and the departmental structures did not have a good status regarding the earth condition. Risk assessment of the equipment and stations by ETBA method indicated that 97% of the equipment were not at an acceptable level of risk, 52% were at the unacceptable risk level, 45% were at undesirable risk level, and only 3% were at the acceptable risk.

Conclusion: The results of this study can be used to prioritize resource allocation to eliminate hospital defects and reduce the risk of accidents up to an acceptable level.