NHM asks state hosps to conduct fire safety audits

Ranchi: The National Health Mission (NHM) has asked all healthcare facilities in Jharkhand to carry out fire safety and electrical safety audits on their premises, including those which hold valid no-objection certificates, in a bid to ensure fire safety amid increasing electrical load during summer months.

State Epidemiologist Dr. Praveen Karn said, "These audits are crucial for ensuring hospital preparedness in managing fire-related emergencies and enhancing overall safety infrastructure and compliance."

The NHM has asked healthcare facilities to hold mock drills on campus and administer safety pledges. A two-day national webinar series, organized jointly by the health department, Indian Medical Association (IMA), and state disaster management cell will address topics such as emergency evacuation, regulatory compliance, and fire suppression strategies.

The advisory mandates preventive inspections and maintenance of firefighting equipment, particularly in high-risk areas like ICUs, OTs, and nurseries. Healthcare institutions must prominently display emergency contact numbers and ensure unobstructed access to exits and prevent electrical overload by limiting unnecessary appliance usage.

A comprehensive Fire Safety Inspection Checklist has been distributed for monthly completion by health facilities. Healthcare facilities must submit their audit reports to state headquarters at [email protected], officials said.

"Many fire incidents stem from overheating and short-circuits due to high electrical loads or substandard infrastructure. To address these concerns, hospitals must implement a fire response plan (FRP) detailing staff responsibilities and emergency procedures. Mandatory mock drills are required every six months in coordination with the fire department," Karn said.

The advisory also calls for appointing fire safety officers and area in-charges.