Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) on Thursday issued urgent preventive measures for fire safety of its buildings.
These measures will be adopted in hospitals, dispensaries, schools, community centres, multi level parking, zonal offices and other MCD buildings.
Officials are directed to implement fire safety instructions which includes inspection of fire fighting system, electrical load audit, Installation of Smoke Detectors , Fire Alarms and automatic water sprinklers, MCD statement said.
In view of recent fire incidents, MCD has issues urgent preventive measures for fire safety of its buildings. These measures will adopted be in hospitals, dispensaries, schools, community centres, Multi level parking , Zonal offices and other buildings where there is large gathering.
All the concerned officials are directed to implement fire safety instructions which includes inspection of fire fighting system,electrical load audit, Installation of Smoke Detectors , Fire Alarms and automatic water sprinklers.
The Electrical Department must regularly inspect fire-fighting equipment such as fire extinguishers, hydrants, and alarms. This includes checking the expiry dates of extinguishers, ensuring hydrants are accessible and have adequate water pressure, and that fire alarms are operational and audible throughout the facility.
Establish a maintenance schedule for all fire safety equipment. This should include monthly checks of fire extinguishers, quarterly tests of fire alarms and hydrants.
Conduct electrical audits bi-annually to evaluate the building’s power consumption, particularly in high-demand areas like ICUs. In areas with oxygen tanks or piped oxygen, implement strict no-smoking policies and controls on heat sources.
Installation of Smoke Detectors and Fire Alarms: Ensure fire smoke detectors and fire alarms are installed in all hospital areas, particularly in patient rooms, hallways and common areas.
Audit materials used in hospital construction and furnishings to identify and replace combustible materials with non-combustible or fire-resistant alternatives, especially in patient care areas.
Inspect electrical ducts to ensure they are sealed with materials like intumescent, fire-stop sealants that prevent the spread of fire and smoke through openings.
Use power management systems to monitor electrical loads and prevent overloading. Ensure that multiple high-power devices are not connected to a single circuit.
Fit critical areas, including ICUs and operation theatres, with automatics sprinklers systems and accessible hose pipes. These systems should be linked in sync with the fire alarm system to be activated in the event of a fire.
Regularly review and updated hospital infrastructure to comply with the latest fire safety standards outlined in the National Building Code 2016. This includes ensuring proper ventilation system, fire-resistant doors, an emergency lighting in corridors and stairwells.
Annually Renew the Fire Safety No-Objection Certificate as per Fire Safety Rules of Govt. of NCT of Delhi. This includes submitting up-to-date fire safety plans and records of equipment maintenance and staff training.
Implement a continuous training program for all staff on fire prevention, emergency procedures, and the use of fire-fighting equipment. Conduct bi-annual fire drills, including evacuation drills, to ensure staff, doctors, and patients know how to respond in an emergency.
Develop comprehensive evacuation plans that include clear, well-marked escape routes, emergency exists free of obstructions, and designated safe assembly areas. Plans should be displayed prominently throughout the hospital and in staff training programs. Each hospital has to formulate an SoP to be followed in case of a fire incident.
By implementing these measures, MCD aims to significantly enhance the fire safety and preparedness of its buildings, thereby safeguarding the lives of residents, employees and property.
