How often must an unannounced fire drill be conducted for all shifts?

An unannounced fire drill must be conducted quarterly for all shifts to ensure that all staff are familiar with emergency procedures and are able to respond effectively in the event of a fire. This frequency allows facilities to regularly assess their preparedness, identify any weaknesses in their emergency response plans, and ensure that all employees, regardless of their shift, participate in the drill. Conducting drills quarterly helps maintain a high level of safety awareness among staff and supports compliance with regulatory requirements, which often mandate regular drills to promote safety in healthcare settings.

While other frequencies may be appropriate in some contexts, such as monthly for specific training or annually for compliance checks, quarterly strikes a balance that ensures ongoing practice without overwhelming staff or stretching resources too thin.