Jerusalem: The 2,000-bed Sammy Ofer Fortified Underground Emergency Hospital is the largest of its kind in the world, designed to protect the patients of northern Israel in times of war.The underground hospital, attached to Rambam Health Care Campus, will operate as a 3-level parking lot for 1,500 vehicles in peace time. In an emergency, it can be converted into a hospital within 72 hours, fortified against conventional and non-conventional weapons, and sustain itself for 72 hours without support from outside.
During a drill before the facility opens, staff members practice operating ventilation and electrical systems, deployment of necessary equipment, and transfer of hospital beds and equipment to designated locations.
In addition, Rambam hospital staff are well trained to deal with emergency situations. |