We have spent the last couple of posts outlining some of the rigorous requirements of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes, particularly as applied to hospitals, dental practices, medical practices, and other healthcare organizations. We have discussed some of the most common non-compliance citations, noting that failure to adhere to NFPA standards endangers patients and personnel alike.

In our most recent post, we concluded with a simple observation: As your medical organization seeks to uphold NFPA standards, the task is simply too great to do it alone. To ensure the safety and well-being of your patients and employees, you need to work with an equipment supplier who shares your resolve.

This is an area where HampMED stands apart from our competition. In this post, we will explain some of the benefits of our more rigorous, compliance-focused approach.

Enforcing Standards

When doctors and dentists set up their practice facilities, one of the NFPA requirements is that they complete a risk assessment form, which provides insight into some of the unique dangers that the practice needs to mitigate. This form is also used to categorize the practice, which has implications for compliance standards.

In an ideal world, each practice would complete this assessment, sign it, and send it to a state-level fire safety representative. In actuality, however, this requirement is enforced very laxly, if at all. At HampMED, we often hear about practices that ignore this requirement completely. While it is understandable that medical practice managers might look askance at any extra paperwork or regulatory hoops, the reality is that these assessments exist to protect patients and protect the practice itself. Skipping the assessment can result in consequences.

At HampMED, when we help set up new practices, we mandate the completion of this assessment and are happy to help walk our clients through it. This is just one of the ways in which our team goes above and beyond to ensure the facilities we work with are safe and compliant.

Additional Benefits of Choosing HampMED

Additionally, NFPA codes stipulate that medical equipment meets a certain standard and that it is positioned and installed in such a way as to minimize potential electrical hazards. As we noted in our previous post, electrical hazards rank among the most common instances of fire safety non-compliance in the healthcare industry.

At HampMED, we are always prepared to answer questions about fire safety and equipment compliance. We can recommend equipment that helps minimize your risk of electrical hazards and other potential fire-starters. Moreover, we can help you set up your physical space in a way that ensures adherence to NFPA guidelines, truly prioritizing the safety and well-being of your patients and your staff.

Here is a breakdown of just some of the reasons to choose a compliance-minded equipment provider like HampMED:

  • We will ensure that you complete all necessary risk assessment forms, even helping you file them with the appropriate authorities.
  • We can educate you and your entire team about the NFPA codes that apply directly to your practice.
  • We can recommend equipment that meets your healthcare needs, fits your budget, and also helps you maintain full fire code compliance.
  • We can advise on your practice setup, eliminating some of the guesswork and uncertainty that many practice managers experience.
  • We take a rigorous approach to each facility we work in, allowing you to feel truly confident in your efforts to prioritize safety.

Not All Suppliers are Created Equal

NFPA codes exist for the protection of your practice, your personnel, and your patients. Adherence is an important way to minimize your risk of fire-related accidents and injury.

Sadly, not all suppliers prioritize compliance the way they should. This is something that truly sets HampMED apart. Our team is dedicated to keeping our clients safe and compliant, providing a range of services to help achieve these goals.

To find out more about setting up your practice in a way that is fully in line with the NFPA, we invite you to contact HampMED at your next opportunity.