Ranchi: NHM Urges Fire Safety Audits Amid Summer Electrical Load
The National Health Mission (NHM) has mandated all healthcare facilities in Jharkhand to conduct electrical safety audits on their premises, including those with valid no-objection certificates, to ensure fire safety. This initiative comes amid increasing electrical loads during the summer months.
State Epidemiologist Dr. Praveen Karn emphasized the importance of these audits, stating, "These audits are crucial for ensuring hospital preparedness in managing fire-related emergencies and enhancing overall safety infrastructure and compliance."
The NHM has also advised healthcare facilities to hold mock drills on campus and administer safety pledges. A two-day national webinar series, organized by the health department, Indian Medical Association (IMA), and state disaster management cell, will address topics such as emergency evacuation, regulatory compliance, and fire suppression strategies.
The advisory mandates preventive inspections and maintenance of firefighting equipment, particularly in high-risk areas like ICUs, OTs, and nurseries. Healthcare institutions must prominently display emergency contact numbers and ensure unobstructed access to exits and prevent electrical overload by limiting unnecessary appliance usage.
A comprehensive Fire Safety Inspection Checklist has been distributed for monthly completion by health facilities. Healthcare facilities must submit their audit reports to state headquarters at npcchhjharkhand2019@gmail.com, officials said.
The advisory also calls for appointing fire safety officers and area in-charges. To address concerns, hospitals must implement a fire response plan (FRP) detailing staff responsibilities and emergency procedures. Mandatory mock drills are required every six months in coordination with the fire department.
Published on Apr 20, 2025 at 03:48 PM IST
Reference : https://health.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/hospitals/nhm-asks-state-hosps-to-conduct-fire-safety-audits/120453882
