After deadly blaze at Pims, hospitals in Punjab told to ensure fire safety

Punjab's Chief Executive Maryam Nawaz has ordered a comprehensive fire safety audit for hospitals across the province following a tragic incident on Wednesday. The deadly blaze at Islamabad's Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) claimed the lives of 14 infants, with initial reports suggesting the fire was sparked by a malfunctioning air conditioner.

In response, the Punjab Healthcare Commission (PHC) issued urgent directives on Thursday for hospitals to implement stringent fire safety measures. These instructions encompass a wide range of actions, including the availability of trained personnel, functional emergency equipment, adequate resources, and regular emergency drills.

All public and private hospitals are required to adhere to Minimum Service Delivery Standards (MSDS), Facility Management System (FMS) and Hospital Infection Control (HIC) requirements. Hospitals are mandated to establish an emergency coding system, prominently display emergency exit maps, and obtain necessary building safety and fitness certificates.

The PHC has also tasked the Punjab Emergency Services Department to conduct fire safety audits of all public and private-sector hospitals without delay. Hospitals found non-compliant with applicable laws, rules, and regulations are expected to receive inspection reports with improvement recommendations. Furthermore, the CM has mandated a fresh audit of fire safety arrangements in public sector health facilities within 24 hours, with inspections to include the availability and functionality of fire extinguishers, firefighting arrangements, emergency exits, and hydrant points. This task must be completed within seven days.