Hospital Color Codes

Hospital are places everyone visits (or at least should visit) often, and it is important to be aware of the codes and alerts that may be said in case of an emergency. Most of the codes are standardized but there are some that vary depending on the institution.

Standard Codes

Code Blue

An adult is suffering a cardiac or respiratory arrest. Examples of this could be a heart attack or choking. Anyone can help as far as they are CPR certified but it is better to open a path for hospital staff to attend it.

Code Red

It is the code for fire or smoke detected on the building. Staff will attend to the fire, please evacuate the building calmly but quickly.Do not use the elevator, use the stairs. Help anyone exit the building if they require it. If it is you who indetifies the fire first, please do shout code red and pull the fire alarm to notify the rest of the building and firefighters.

Code Orange

Most commonly a hazardous material spill. Usually a chemical one, but could also be biological, or in extreme cases radioactive. Please evacuate the area if you haven't come into direct contact with the chemical. Look for the closest shower to avoid any remnants if you actually came into contact. Follow up with your doctor days after to diminish chances of poisoning.

Code Pink and Purple

Code Purple is for a child abduction, while code Pink is infant abduction. Please be aware of your surroundings and report any helpful information if you have any. Please keep your own children secure, and follow the instructions of the personel.

Code Black

Bomb or terrorist threat. Please keep calm and help those who need it. If the police arrives, keeps your hands up and open. If getting out may be more dangerous, close and lock the door. Close the cover of the windows and turn off the lights. Wait for the police to clear the situation and allow you to exit.

Code Silver

Armed threat. A individual with a gun has or could've taken a hostage. Please lock doors, and be patient. Wait until the police arrives to deal with the situation.

Code Gray

This means a combative patient. The personnel should be ready to stop and to deal with a patient that may be putting their life and that of others in danger. Please evacuate the area to avoid any complications with it.