The responder: Code Grey – System Failure

As you go about your day at work, the lights suddenly flicker and then turn completely off; putting you, your co-workers and everyone else in the facility in darkness. Emergency back-up lights kick in providing minimal lighting for the facility. Would you know what to do in this situation?

When systems such as lights, telephones, computer networks, and HVAC fail these are all considered Code Grey – System Failure events. Although backup systems are in place for critical infrastructures to minimize the impacts of a failure, downtime procedures might still need to be used while the system is being repaired. It is important for all staff and departments to be aware of the possibility of system failures by taking into consideration what can be done to mitigate the impacts. The following are some preparations staff and departments can undertake in advance:

•  Ensure there are extra emergency supplies such as headlamps, flashlights and batteries on hand
•  Any back up batteries are charged
•  Establish downtime procedures for applicable computer applications; ensuring such procedures are known by staff
•  Plug all critical equipment into electrical outlets powered by back up generators; these outlets are usually red in colour

Staff and departments should also take time to consult your site’s Code Grey plans. These plans outline the site’s response to a system failure. Response procedures include some or all of the following:

•  Process for alerting the department responsible for the failed system
•  Notification of staff regarding the system failure through the announcement of a Code Grey followed by a description of the outage or what system has failed
•  Switchover to use manual or backup systems
•  Contact information to notify appropriate Directors, Managers or Leaders should an Emergency Operations Centre or Incident Command Post require activation.

For more information on emergency procedures please visit the Health Emergency Management BC intranet page on VCH Connect or the Emergency Preparedness Program page on PHC Connect .