In healthcare settings, the safety of patients, staff and visitors is paramount. At Skagit Regional Health (SRH), lockdown procedures are a critical part of our emergency response protocols, designed to protect people and property during high-risk situations.

Here’s what you need to know about why lockdowns happen, what they mean and what to expect if one is initiated.

Why are lockdowns called?

Lockdowns, or high-level access control measures, are enacted during situations that pose significant risk to hospital security and safety. These may include but are not limited to:

• Bio/chemical incidents requiring quarantine
• Criminal activity near the facility
• Civil disturbances in close proximity
• Arrival of victims of violent crimes when imminent threat may exist
• During any mass casualty incident where activating our triage plan becomes essential for managing patient care and resources
  

These events demand a swift and coordinated response to secure the environment and safeguard all occupants.

What does "lockdown" mean—and not mean?

Lockdowns vary in severity depending on the nature of the threat. At SRH, we use several levels of lockdown:

• Total Site Lockdown: This is the highest level of security. All perimeter doors and barriers are locked, and no one is permitted to enter or exit the facility. Security personnel and support staff are deployed to monitor key access points.
  • Example: A direct and specific threat to the hospital.
• Controlled Lockdown (Exit Only): All perimeter doors are secured. People may exit the facility, but no one is allowed to enter. Staff are stationed at entrances/exits to screen those leaving the building.
  • Example: Code Amber Alert, nearby civil unrest.
• Controlled Lockdown (Entry & Exit): All perimeter doors are locked, and all access is screened. Both entry and exit are permitted, but only after individuals are vetter by security staff.
  • Example: Threats to the facility requiring verification of all comings and goings.
• Partial Lockdown: Foot traffic is funneled through designated access points like main lobbies or emergency department doors. These areas are staffed and monitored closely.
  • Example: A violent incident in close proximity to the hospital, or an event warranting heightened internal security.

Who can enter or exit during a lockdown?

During a Total Site Lockdown, SRH staff should not leave the facility due to an active or incoming threat. Patients and visitors are discouraged from exiting, but not physically stopped if they insist.

Emergency Department patients will be screened and allowed to enter for care or may be transported to another facility if the level of threat has caused the hospital to be on divert (meaning it is temporarily unable to accept certain patients due to a safety threat). Visitors, however, will be turned away until the lockdown is lifted.

Badge-enabled doors will continue to allow access for security staff, plant operations staff and members of the Executive Leadership Team.

Who has the authority to call a lockdown?

The Administrative Supervisor on duty has the authority to initiate a lockdown. They will coordinate with:

• Security Services leadership and on-duty personnel
• Administrator on Call (AOC)
• Chief Operating Officer (COO)
• Public Information Officer (PIO)
• Local law enforcement (as feasible)

Lockdowns are not taken lightly and are only initiated after consultation and consideration of the threat level.

What to do after a lockdown is called

• If you are ill or injured during a hospital lockdown, go to the Emergency Department entrance. You will be screened and admitted for care, provided it is safe and appropriate.
• If you are inside the hospital, remain where you are until instructed otherwise by hospital staff.
• Be prepared for law enforcement or security personnel to search the area or question individuals as part of their response.

 Note: Some details may be withheld due to ongoing investigations.

Summary

Lockdowns are implemented to protect life and ensure operational control during critical incidents. Understanding the different levels of lockdown and how to respond during one ensures that we all play a role in maintaining a safe environment. Stay informed, stay calm and trust that our emergency protocols are in place for the well-being of everyone in our facilities.