New Delhi: Union Health Secretary Apoorva Chandra at a meeting with states and healthcare organizations on Monday called for strict compliance with fire-safety protocols, citing the increased possibility of hospital fires due to high temperatures.
Due to prolonged heat wave across the northern region, incidents of forest fires are becoming more frequent.
It is reported that many of these fire incidents were caused by short circuits, caused by poor electrical maintenance and/or overloading of power lines with heavy use of air conditioners and other appliances.
“Given the potential risks associated with fire hazards in hospitals, it is essential that strict protocols and measures are in place to effectively prevent, detect and respond to fires.
Chandra said, “Establishing a strong fire safety plan and conducting fire-evacuation and safety drills will not only ensure compliance with regulatory requirements but also protect life and property.,
The Union Health Ministry has on several occasions informed all States and Union Territories that with high temperatures in summer, the incidence of hospital fires becomes a more significant threat and they should conduct regular preventive fire audits to identify potentially vulnerable areas. It is advised to conduct a risk assessment exercise.
The latest review meeting in this regard was held on May 29 under the co-chairmanship of Additional Secretary (Public Health and Policy) and Director General of Health Services.
The meeting was attended by 15 representatives of state health departments and around 390 health organizations.
At the meeting, Chandra advised the stakeholders to ensure better coordination with local public works departments and fire departments, so that fire safety 'No Objection Certificate' can be obtained on time.
A checklist on 'Prevention and Maintenance of Fire Safety' was shared with the States and Union Territories and it was requested to be filled and returned by all the health facilities.All states and union territories have been asked to ensure strict compliance with regulatory protocols and regular mock drills on fire safety after receiving feedback from a wide-scale assessment.
Due to prolonged heat wave across the northern region, incidents of forest fires are becoming more frequent.
It is reported that many of these fire incidents were caused by short circuits, caused by poor electrical maintenance and/or overloading of power lines with heavy use of air conditioners and other appliances.
“Given the potential risks associated with fire hazards in hospitals, it is essential that strict protocols and measures are in place to effectively prevent, detect and respond to fires.
Chandra said, “Establishing a strong fire safety plan and conducting fire-evacuation and safety drills will not only ensure compliance with regulatory requirements but also protect life and property.,
The Union Health Ministry has on several occasions informed all States and Union Territories that with high temperatures in summer, the incidence of hospital fires becomes a more significant threat and they should conduct regular preventive fire audits to identify potentially vulnerable areas. It is advised to conduct a risk assessment exercise.
The latest review meeting in this regard was held on May 29 under the co-chairmanship of Additional Secretary (Public Health and Policy) and Director General of Health Services.
The meeting was attended by 15 representatives of state health departments and around 390 health organizations.
At the meeting, Chandra advised the stakeholders to ensure better coordination with local public works departments and fire departments, so that fire safety 'No Objection Certificate' can be obtained on time.
A checklist on 'Prevention and Maintenance of Fire Safety' was shared with the States and Union Territories and it was requested to be filled and returned by all the health facilities.All states and union territories have been asked to ensure strict compliance with regulatory protocols and regular mock drills on fire safety after receiving feedback from a wide-scale assessment.