Recent events have raised serious concerns about fire safety measures in hospitals across Uttar Pradesh. Following a tragic fire at Rani Laxmibai Medical College in Jhansi, which claimed the lives of at least 10 children and injured 16 others, an inspection revealed inadequate fire safety protocols in hospitals across Lucknow.

Fire Safety Failures in Hospitals

The fire at the Jhansi Medical College, caused by an electrical short circuit, exposed alarming lapses in fire safety:

1. Expired fire extinguishers in critical areas like the NICU.
2. Safety alarms that failed to activate, delaying evacuation.
3. Lack of proper fire exits, hindering swift movement during emergencies.

These shortcomings have triggered an urgent review of hospital fire safety protocols across the state.

Inspections in Lucknow Hospitals

A recent investigation by the fire department in Lucknow revealed:

1. Out of 906 hospitals, only 301 have adequate fire safety measures and valid fire No Objection Certificates (NOCs).
2. 80 hospitals have been issued notices for failing to meet fire safety standards.
3. The fire department plans to inspect the remaining hospitals to ensure compliance with fire safety norms.

This inspection highlights that 66% of hospitals in Lucknow lack essential fire safety measures, putting countless lives at risk.

Government Response and Recommendations

The Uttar Pradesh Government has taken swift action by:

1. Forming a four-member committee to investigate the Jhansi fire incident and identify causes of negligence.
2. Mandating hospitals across the state to review and upgrade their fire safety protocols.
3. Emphasizing the need for strict compliance with fire safety norms to prevent future tragedies.

The former Chief Fire Officer has recommended:

• Conducting fire safety audits through third-party organizations for transparency.
• Appointing dedicated fire safety officers in hospitals, similar to nursing staff.
• Ensuring at least two unobstructed fire exit doors in hospitals, or clear, spacious single exits where structural limitations exist.

Why Fire Safety is Critical in Hospitals

Hospitals house vulnerable patients who cannot evacuate quickly, making fire safety compliance a top priority. Key measures include:

1. Regular inspection and maintenance of fire safety equipment like extinguishers and alarms.
2. Designing hospitals with clear fire exits and unobstructed evacuation routes.
3. Training staff in fire safety protocols and conducting regular drills.

Steps Hospitals Must Take

To ensure patient and staff safety, hospitals should:

1. Obtain and renew fire NOCs from the fire department.
2. Conduct regular fire audits and fix any deficiencies promptly.
3. Invest in modern fire safety systems and maintain them properly.
4. Train staff in emergency response protocols, including evacuation and first aid.

A Call to Action

The recent events in Jhansi and Lucknow serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting fire safety in healthcare facilities. Hospitals must prioritize the implementation of comprehensive fire safety measures to protect lives and prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Conclusion

Fire safety in hospitals is not just a regulatory requirement; it is a moral obligation to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and visitors. The notices served to 80 hospitals in Lucknow highlight the urgent need for action. Hospitals must address these deficiencies and set an example of responsibility and care.

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