Major incident preparedness: a curriculum and workplace necessity.

Major incidents are defined as: An event or situation with a range of serious consequences, which require special arrangements to be implemented by one, or more emergency responder agency. The ability for a healthcare system to respond effectively relies upon multiple component parts working effectively. Simulating, understanding and learning from major incidents is not widespread throughout the wider healthcare setting. However, anyone can be involved without warning. Staff working in any healthcare setting should have the knowledge and skills to respond to major incidents. It is time to include major incident response and emergency planning into the undergraduate medical curriculum. Further, it should be mandatory in all routine staff and student training. These events occur infrequently, but if managed poorly can be disastrous. This new significance placed on emergency preparedness will equip staff to face these challenges and deliver improved outcomes.