New Delhi: Experts at a workshop on hospital fire safety and patient evacuation emphasized the need for fire safety personnel to be involved in hospital design alongside architects. The event, held on Saturday, highlighted critical fire risks in healthcare facilities and the necessity of adopting modern safety measures.
The discussion gained urgency following last year’s tragic fire at a neonatal care center in Vivek Vihar, east Delhi, where seven infants lost their lives. Investigations revealed a single obstructed escape route, prompting experts to suggest alternative solutions, such as installing steel staircases as secondary exits.
Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena underscored the national importance of hospital fire safety, urging the adoption of advanced technology to mitigate risks. Experts revealed that nearly 70% of hospital fires originate from electrical sources, making preventive measures crucial.
Vivek Srivastava, Director General of Fire Services, stressed the importance of engaging fire consultants in the design phase, as post-construction modifications are often expensive and avoided. NDMA members suggested launching a national fire safety day for hospitals and schools to promote regular mock drills.
The workshop, organized by the Ministry of Home Affairs in collaboration with NDMA and PHDCCI, underscored the need for better evacuation strategies and enhanced fire safety protocols in hospitals.
