Preparedness of Earthquake Assessment in Alborz University of Medical Sciences: Turning Threats into Opportunities
نویسندگان
1 Department of Health in Emergencies and Disasters, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid-Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,
2 Assistant Professor of Health in Disasters and Emergencies Department of Medical Emergencies, School of Nursing Alborz University of Medical Sciences
3 Assistant Professor of Health in Disasters and Emergencies Department of Medical Emergencies, School of Nursing Social Determinants of Health Research Center Alborz University of Medical Sciences
4 Educational Institute, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Alborz, Iran
doi
10.30476/jhmi.2025.107486.1288چکیده
Introduction: Since educational institutions are vital infrastructure, it is crucial that theybe adequately equipped to withstand natural disasters. The goal of the current study was toevaluate and examine how prepared a higher education institution was for earthquakes.Methods: In order to evaluate a higher education center’s level of earthquake preparedness,a cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study was carried out in 2022. Strengths, weaknesses,opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis was carried out after data was gathered usinga preparedness assessment checklist designed specifically for higher education institutions.Two categories of internal and external factors were then identified.Results: The earthquake preparedness level was assessed to be 64.5% on average. Amongthe various dimensions evaluated, the laboratory (84.16%) and safety (80.22%) dimensionsshowed the highest level of preparation, respectively.Conclusion: It is highly recommended that a comprehensive national-level preparednesstool should also be developed. In addition, measures such as budget allocation, incentiveprograms, and legal requirements should be implemented to prepare educational structuresfor potential earthquakes.
