 has issued an advisory on Thursday, directing hospitals and health facilities under its jurisdiction to implement several fire safety measures. These measures include inspecting fire-fighting equipment, conducting electrical load audits, and installing automatic sprinklers in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) to prevent and manage untoward incidents){kind=link}
New Delhi: In response to the rising number of fire incidents in the Capital, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has issued an advisory on Thursday, directing hospitals and health facilities under its jurisdiction to implement several fire safety measures. These measures include inspecting fire-fighting equipment, conducting electrical load audits, and installing automatic sprinklers in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) to prevent and manage untoward incidents.
Extended Directives to Various Facilities
The MCD has also issued similar directives to schools, community centres, multi-level parking lots, and zonal offices. Hospitals and health facilities are required to prepare and submit a report on the actions taken by May 31.
Key Safety Measures
- Maintenance Schedule for Fire Safety Equipment
Hospitals must establish a maintenance schedule for fire safety equipment. This includes monthly checks on fire extinguishers and quarterly tests of fire alarms and hydrants.
- Installation of Detection and Alarm Systems
Hospitals and health facilities are instructed to install smoke detectors and fire alarms throughout their premises, with a focus on patient rooms, hallways, and common areas.
- Sprinkler Systems and Hosepipes
ICUs, operation theaters, and other critical areas in hospitals must install automatic sprinkler systems and ensure hosepipes are accessible.
- Drills and Evacuation Preparedness
Hospitals are mandated to conduct fire and evacuation drills to ensure that staff, doctors, and patients are prepared to respond during an emergency.
Annual Certification and Evacuation Plans
The MCD has directed authorities to ensure the annual renewal of the fire safety no-objection certificate from the fire department. Additionally, hospitals and health facilities must prepare a comprehensive evacuation plan to be followed in the event of a fire.