Assessing internal disaster preparedness at Security Forces Hospital, Riyadh.

Abstract

Hospital safety is very important, particularly in preparing for internal disasters such as fires, power outages, and chemical exposures, which can significantly disrupt hospital functions and endanger patients and staff. This study aimed to assess the readiness of the Security Forces Hospital in Riyadh to effectively manage internal disasters. A cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate hospital staff awareness, perception, knowledge, and preparedness regarding internal disasters. Data were collected through a structured survey. The study analyzed associations between awareness levels, work experience, and participation in disaster training programs. Results showed that there is a generally high level of awareness, but gaps remained in disaster response training and knowledge of emergency protocols. Arabic-speaking respondents showed lower awareness compared to English speakers, while employees with less than five years of experience were more aware of internal disasters but lacked knowledge of the hospital's emergency plan, with limited planning courses and evacuation drills. To enhance disaster preparedness, regular evacuation drills, structured training programs, and multilingual educational materials should be implemented. Standardizing emergency information on staff ID cards, improving accessibility to disaster protocols, and increasing awareness campaigns will strengthen overall readiness.