People Finder System Being Created for Major Disasters

Drawing on the Haiti earthquake experience, the National Library of Medicine estimates more than 50,000 family members might use the system twice during a disaster.

The National Library of Medicine (NLM) is working out an interactive Lost People Finder System to be used by emergency responders and medical personnel during large-scale emergencies like this year's Haiti earthquake. A request for comments published Monday in the Federal Register explained the system would be a voluntary collector of information about people who are missing and who are found (recovered) during a disaster. The system would be activated only during disasters or emergencies in which U.S. government agencies are called to contribute to relief efforts and would operate until those efforts cease.

"Information on recovered individuals would be gathered voluntarily from medical and relief personnel who either use a specialized application developed by NLM for the iPhone or submit information to NLM by e-mail via computer or cell phone," according to the notice. Using a photo, name (if available), age category, gender, status (healthy, injured), and location supplied by relatives, the system would help in those seeking family members, friends, and other loved ones.

The Google Person Finder system was deployed during the Haiti earthquake. Using that disaster as a model, NLM estimate some 500 emergency responders might use the proposed finder system during a relief effort, and each one might submit information on 100 people. Each submission should take no more than five minutes. Again based on the Haiti experience (the Google Person Finder system contained information on 50,000 people after two weeks of operation), the agency estimates more than 50,000 family members might use the system twice during a disaster.

For more information on the proposal, contact NLM's David Sharlip at 301-402-9680 or [email protected]

Download Center

  • Hand Safety Program

    Hand injuries are the #1 preventable industrial accident worldwide. In REThink Hand Safety, the most comprehensive book on hand safety, you'll learn how top companies have reduced hand injuries by up to 90% and what the most successful hand safety programs have in common. Get your free copy today.

  • Free 1-on-1 Consultations

    Get a free meeting with a Superior Glove hand safety expert and learn how to have less hand injuries, lower PPE costs, and increase worker productivity. 1-on-1 consultations provide you with personalized advice and recommendations for your specific needs and concerns.

  • Glove 101 Guide

    In this comprehensive guide, we've compiled all the key information you need to know about safety gloves to help you make informed decisions when choosing gloves for your workers. Whether you're new to the world of safety gloves or an experienced pro, this guide has something for everyone.

  • Sample Program

    Find the right safety gloves for your team and try before you buy—in just 3 easy steps! Simply add the products to your sample box, complete the request form, and wait for your samples to arrive at no cost to you.

  • Cut Protection Product Guide

    Find the right safety gloves for your workers to protect them from cut hazards. This guide offers a wide selection of gloves, including ultra-thin gloves with the industry’s maximum cut resistance for unbeatable dexterity and touch sensitivity.

  • Superior Glove

Featured Whitepaper

OH&S Digital Edition

  • OHS Magazine Digital Edition - February March 2023

    February March 2023

    Featuring:

    • IH: GAS DETECTION
      Does Real-Time Data Enhance Gas Detection Programs?
    • PPE: HEARING PROTECTION
      Hearing Protection: The Dangers of Non-Compliance
    • PPE: PROTECTIVE APPAREL
      Personal Protective Equipment: The Pains of Staying Pain-Free
    • CONSTRUCTION SAFETY
      Reframing Eyewear: Meeting Workforce Needs with Technology and Advancements
    View This Issue