Emergency and disaster management

An emergency is an unexpected event that may affect the hospital’s ability to provide care. It can also create a sudden increase in patients seeking care. Emergencies may be human‑made, like an electrical failure, or natural, like an ice storm. They can also be a mix of both, and they can range from minor to severe.

A disaster is a more serious type of emergency because of its size, complexity, or how long it lasts. Disasters can overwhelm UOHI resources, meaning the hospital may work with local partners, municipalities, and the provincial government.

In 2025, the City of Ottawa identified several priority hazards including cyberattacks, civil disobedience (such as peaceful protests or marches), earthquakes, extreme heat, and flooding as the most likely risks impacting the community.

The UOHI has an Emergency Management Program (EMP) to help respond to different types of emergencies and disasters. The EMP was created to meet provincial and local requirements.
 

The UOHI emergency response plan outlines several levels of activation. These levels range from normal care and services with minor disruptions to more complex changes to ensure we continue delivering essential and lifesaving care. Instructions are sent out based on the seriousness of the event and its potential impact.

The primary method for communication in an emergency at the UOHI is with colour-coded messages announced on the overhead public address system. The goal of these codes is to trigger a rapid response from staff in the area. UOHI staff are trained to handle such incidents, while keeping patients and visitors safe and calm.

When an overhead emergency code is activated in a care area, everyone must follow the steps below:

• TAKE DIRECTION: Remain calm and follow instructions given by staff members.
• STAY IN PLACE: If you are in a room or in a safe area, it is best to stay there until an “All Clear” code is announced.
• AVOID THE AREA: Do not go toward the location mentioned in the announcement.
• DO NOT USE THE ELEVATORS: In most emergency situations (especially fire), do not use the elevators.

Specific Code Responses for the Public:

• Code Red (Fire): Remain where you are until instructed by a staff member to leave.
• Code Green (move to another area, to another floor or leave the building) : Follow staff instructions.
• Code Silver (Active Attacker/Weapon): Follow staff instructions. Close and lock the doors, turn off the lights and remain silent.
• Code White (Violent Situation): Keep a safe distance. Do not try to help. Follow instructions from staff.
• Code Purple (Hostage): Keep a safe distance. Do not try to help. Follow instructions from staff.
• Code Amber/Yellow (Missing Patient): Do not join the search, but report to staff if you see someone matching the description.
• Code Black (Bomb Threat): If you see a suspicious object, do not touch it. Report it to staff immediately.
• Code Brown (Hazardous Materials Spill): Keep a safe distance. Do not try to help. Follow instructions from staff.
• Code Gray (when things like power, water, computers, medical equipment, or communication systems fail): Keep a safe distance. Do not try to help. Follow instructions from staff.
• Code Orange (Disaster or Hazardous Materials): Keep a safe distance. Do not try to help. Follow instructions from staff.
• Code Blue (Cardiac Arrest): For staff only. An emergency response team is being paged.

If there is a disaster or emergency that could seriously affect patients, staff, or services at the UOHI, there are different ways the UOHI will communicate. The main goal is to share important information quickly and clearly.

The UOHI Communications Department will develop clear, targeted messages based on the situation. Regular updates will be issued as the situation evolves to keep everyone informed. The communication plan may be adjusted based on feedback and collaboration with local partners, municipalities, and the provincial government.

Communication tools that may be used to reach external audiences include:

• Emergency banner on UOHI website
• Phone calls
• Emails
• MyChart
• Social media posts (X, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn and Instagram)
• Statements, interviews, news releases, media advisories and conferences
• Overhead public address system
• Onsite digital TV screens and posters
• Messages for the radio broadcasters

Emergencies can happen anywhere and at any time. All patients and community members should have a personal emergency plan. Federal and provincial agencies offer helpful online resources to guide you in creating a plan and building a survival kit. Your plan should also include how you will take care of yourself during an emergency or disaster if you can't go to the UOHI. Please review the links below to help you and your loved ones stay prepared:

• City of Ottawa Emergency Preparedness Basics
• Government of Canada Get Prepared Guide
• Government of Ontario Emergency Management
• Ontario Medical Association’s Emergency Preparedness Handout