Site assessment and planning

EMTs are able to assess possible site71 locations and adapt their configuration to local conditions, including the possibility to work within or reinforce existing health facilities.

EMTs should carefully but timely consider their site assessment and configuration (layout) using pre-defined criteria. Several EMTs are considering sending multidisciplinary teams ahead of the main team to begin preparations and select the most appropriate location based on identified needs. This senior team must have strong technical knowledge and appropriate soft skills and cultural awareness to negotiate access and gain the trust of the community and acceptance of the proposed plan.

1. Plan the configuration (layout) based on the expected scenarios, taking into account at least two different ground constraints (vertical/horizontal).
2. Perform site assessment including security and safety risks using a validated tool by an advance multidisciplinary team or team members prior to staff and cargo mobilization to the site.
3. EMTs must be able to operate in urban and spatially limited environments as well as in rural and remote locations.

Plan in advance for potential expansion in case of mass casualty incidents or outbreak as the latter can lead to complications, especially if building extensions will require workers to wear PPE.

• The first sketch of the ground plans on site facilitates the start of drainage and levelling work prior to construction, while the equipment is en route.
• The levelling and preparation of the ground facilitates the following phases of the work, including drainage of water, erection of tents and structures. As Type 2 and 3 might include machines to facilitate such work, this form of intervention requires the consent and commitment of the community.