CDA Orders Urgent Fire Safety Upgrades at Poly Clinic Hospital

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has issued an urgent order for Poly Clinic Hospital in Islamabad to implement significant fire safety upgrades following a recent audit that uncovered numerous critical gaps in the facility's safety measures. The audit revealed that the hospital is lacking essential fire prevention and emergency response facilities, including hose reels, wet risers, yard hydrants, an automatic sprinkler system, fire alarms, smoke detectors, a fire pump set, and an underground water storage tank.

It also noted inadequate access for fire engines, insufficient emergency exit routes, weak fire control rooms, inadequate emergency lighting, and poor fire protection for generator and transformer rooms. Additionally, the hospital is without fire doors, proper fire compartmentation, and staff training on fire safety protocols. The CDA emphasized the critical need for the hospital to address these deficiencies promptly, including preparing an emergency evacuation plan, appointing fire wardens, and improving fire safety measures for oxygen and gas handling.

The audit underscored the grave risk to life and property posed by the hospital's current fire safety deficiencies.