Emergency Measures

Are you familiar with emergency codes? These are codes with different color names depending on the situation. These standard codes are used in most hospitals and healthcare settings in Ontario. The staff are all trained in emergency procedures. They regularly conduct simulations in order to react promptly if a code that concerns their area is called on the intercom system. 

List of Emergency Response Codes 

• Code Amber: Missing Child
• Code Brown: Hazardous Material
• Code Black: Bomb Threat
• Code Blue: Cardiac Arrest
• Code Pink: Cardiac Arrest for a Baby
• Code Silver: Person with Weapon
• Code Gray: System Failure
• Code Orange: External Disaster
• Code Red: Fire*
• Code White: Violent Individual
• Code Green: Evacuation*
• Code Yellow: Missing Patient
• Code Purple: Hostage

*Unlike in other environments, it is not necessary to evacuate the premises in the event of a fire alarm. Should an evacuation be declared, staff members are trained and equipped to safely evacuate patients and visitors to a safe location.

Learn how you can be prepared for emergencies by making an emergency plan and kit by visiting the Ontario Emergency Prepardness website.