PVHMC Successfully Hosts Decontamination Drill for Eight Region Hospitals in the San Gabriel Valley

Successful Drill Advances Hospital Readiness for Chemical Contamination Incidents

Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center (PVHMC) demonstrated its commitment to emergency response preparedness by hosting a regional decontamination drill on Thursday, June 13, 2024, in collaboration with the Los Angeles County Emergency Medical Services Agency. The exercise was planned for eight hospitals in the San Gabriel Valley region that are members of the Hospital Preparedness Program (HPP).

The four-hour drill took place at PVHMC’s Emergency Department parking lot, with nearly 100 healthcare workers participating in a simulation of a chemical decontamination scenario involving multiple casualties. Participants displayed their expertise by donning and doffing personal protective equipment (PPE) and guiding victims through a mobile decontamination shower, which was provided by LA County. The victims were played by volunteers from local firefighter and police explorer programs, as well as local Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT).

“By improving readiness for chemical contamination, hospitals can better protect their communities and themselves,” said Steven Storbakken, HACP-PE, NHDP-BC, Director of Emergency Preparedness at PVHMC. “The ability to effectively manage hazardous chemical spills within hospitals is crucial, and we are proud that our decon drill has helped to promote safer hospital environments.”

Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center is the leading hospital for disaster response in our region and is one of 13 designated Disaster Resource Centers (DRC) in Los Angeles County. For more information on the hospital’s emergency preparedness, visithttps://www.pvhmc.org/services/emergency-services/other-specialized-services/.