Assessment of the vulnerability of non-structural components and their impact on disaster response

Abstract

The operability of a hospital after a disaster depends on the resilience of its non-structural components, which represent the largest economic and functional investment in the health sector. Objective: To assess the vulnerability of non-structural components and their impact on hospital response to disasters in a medium-complexity facility. Methodology: Quantitative, observational, field study using the Hospital Safety Index (HSI) from PAHO/WHO. Vital lines, medical equipment, and architectural elements were evaluated using a technical form of 71 items. Results: A heterogeneous behavior was identified. The architectural component showed a high level of safety (83%). However, critical vulnerabilities were found in the telecommunications system, fuel storage, and imaging service (low level). The electrical and water systems reported high safety levels, although their autonomy depends on anchors and supplies rated at a medium level. Conclusions: The hospital has adequate physical stability, but latent functional fragility. Failure in specific vital lines and in diagnostic imaging capacity compromises the immediate response to mass casualty victims. It is a priority to implement earthquake-resistant anchors and ensure logistical autonomy to guarantee a 'Safe Hospital'.