Safety & security

Safety & security

We want the Royal Devon to be safe and secure for all our patients, visitors and staff. Everyone has a role in ensuring this. Below is some key information about the measures in place and your role. 

Using electronic devices safely

We recognise that electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops and other devices are an integral part of daily life and you may wish to bring them with you to hospital. They can present a serious fire hazard however and we ask that you adhere to the following guidelines to help us keep you and other patients and our staff safe: 

  • Only use chargers from the relevant manufacturer for the device (e.g. a Samsung charge for a Samsung phone. They are less likely to cause a fire than generic devices). 
  • Do not unplug hospital equipment. 
  • Do not leave your charger plugged in when not in use or on continuous charge. 
  • Do not use a damaged device.
  • Do not leave your device on pillows, bedding or any soft furnishing. 

Further information can be found in our Patient Safety Leaflet on 'Charging mobile phones and other electronic devices in hospital' (click here to download).

Please note, we cannot take responsibility for any missing devices that have not been given to us for safe keeping and a receipt issued. We advise that you cover such items on your home, or other, insurance.   

The charging of e-cigarette/vape devices is not allowed anywhere on our hospital sites

If you would like advice and support in managing your smoking habits while in hospital please speak with a member of the nursing team.

Security

We want the Royal Devon to be safe and secure for all our patients, visitors and staff. Everyone has a role in preventing crime and ensuring a safe secure environment. 

The Royal Devon employs a 24/7 dedicated security team who proactively promote a Trust-wide pro-security culture to all staff, patients and visitors. The team work closely in partnership with Devon and Cornwall Constabulary and deal with a variety of issues such as:

  • Investigation of crimes
  • High visibility patrols and crime prevention initiatives
  • Offering security advice on wards or departments
  • Training staff in security de-escalation, breakaway and safe handling techniques

We kindly ask that you:

  • Do not bring unnecessary valuables into the hospital because we cannot guarantee their safekeeping
  • Always treat our staff, patients and visitors with respect and dignity  

Violence, aggression and threatening or abusive behaviour will not be tolerated:

  • Treatment or services may be withheld from patients or visitors who are violent or abusive towards our staff.
  • Patients or visitors who are violent or abusive may be removed from our buildings or grounds and could face prosecution.

Fire Safety

All our Staff are trained in fire safety and evacuation procedures. In the very unlikely event of a fire, nursing staff will give you clear instructions on what needs to happen. We ask that patients and visitors carefully follow the instructions of staff in any emergency situation.

If you smell burning or see smoke please immediately tell a member of staff and raise the alarm. 

Fire safety information and instructions can normally be found at the entrance to all wards and departments. Fire alarm systems are routinely tested and staff will let you know when that is happening.

We work closely in partnership with the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service (click here to visit their website). They provide a lot of useful information about fire safety on their website, including how to book a free home safety visit.

Last updated: August 16, 2023

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