What is a Code Orange?
A Code Orange is activated when an emergency in the community occurs and the hospital is required to shift normal operating processes to care for incoming patients. These can include a large-scale incident or separate incidents occurring simultaneously, such as vehicular collisions.
To help determine the appropriate response during the quickly unfolding events, LHSC uses a three-step alert system. Please note that LHSC works closely with regional partners during these events to assess and respond to patient needs.
Code Orange Alert
Code Orange Alerts are part of LHSC’s emergency preparedness system and are issued to notify hospital teams of a possible patient surge. The alert serves as a precautionary measure and teams are asked to please stand-by as the organization awaits more information from its partners, usually EMS. No action is required of teams at this time.
Code Orange ENS Level 1
This is called when an external disaster has occurred with multiple potential patients arriving at the hospital requiring a coordinated response with organizational resources streamlined to the Emergency Department. A full hospital response is not required.
Code Orange ENS Level 2
This is called when there is a significant impact expected to more than just the Emergency Department, requiring a full hospital response or CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosive) response.
LHSC is always well prepared to manage sudden increases in patient volume. We have comprehensive protocols in place to ensure a coordinated and effective response to external emergencies.
