- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Tue, 20 May 2025 09:00 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
In a move to minimise fire-related incidents in healthcare facilities, the central government has directed all states and union territories, including Bihar, to develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Fire Response Plans (FRPs) for fire safety in hospitals. The directive mandates that all health workers comply with these safety protocols.
According to Bihar’s Health Department, the Centre has issued comprehensive guidelines focused on fire prevention and response in hospitals. The guidelines require all hospitals to obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the appropriate authority and ensure the installation and maintenance of fire detection and control systems.
Hospitals will also be required to coordinate with local fire services under the FRP and conduct fire drills at least once every six months. The drills must be organised in such a way that each hospital department participates in at least one drill annually.
The guidelines place special emphasis on high-risk areas such as Intensive Care Units (ICUs) and Operation Theatres (OTs), stressing that personnel in these zones must be trained to handle fire emergencies. Additionally, hospitals must appoint trained fire guards and ensure that nurses, doctors, and paramedical staff are equipped with fire safety knowledge.
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has also instructed states to report back on the steps taken to implement these fire safety measures in strict adherence to the issued guidelines.
