Crash at MRI facility offers reminder of unique safety challenges
In December 2014, a tanker truck plowed through the walls of an outpatient imaging center in Cumberland County, Pa., and the center’s MRI unit created a challenge for rescuers.
Tragically, the driver was killed in the accident, but firefighters attempting to reach the driver and search for any other possible victims were stopped in their tracks when they entered a badly damaged MRI suite. Despite power being out at the facility, the MRI was magnetized and pulled an axe/crowbar tool from the hands of one of the firefighters, creating a dangerous flying projectile. With the damage to the unit, emergency controls were inoperable.
The incident was detailed in Fire Engineering magazine, and while that article was meant to offer an education for emergency personnel on how to handle incidents at MRI facilities, the case could also be seen as a reminder for imaging providers to reassess their own safety and emergency protocols.
For more, check out the link below:
Evan joined TriMed in 2011, writing primarily for Health Imaging. Prior to diving into medical journalism, Evan worked for the Nine Network of Public Media in St. Louis. He also has worked in public relations and education. Evan studied journalism at the University of Missouri, with an emphasis on broadcast media.