To bolster fire safety measures in the state, Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria has approved the Punjab Fire and Emergency Service Bill 2024. The new legislation aimed at streamlining fire safety compliance and significantly ease the process of doing business in Punjab by extending the validity of fire safety certificates from one year to three years.

The bill introduced a comprehensive regulatory framework that will oversee fire-related activities, including the accreditation of third-party service providers, monitoring their performance, and enforcing penalties for subpar conduct. Building owners will now be mandated to obtain fire safety certificates and submit periodic compliance returns to verify adherence to safety measures.

One of the key revenue enhancements under the bill is the authority granted to the Punjab Fire Administration to impose a fire tax on all buildings across the state. This tax may be supplemented by a cess, enabling the administration to collect user fees for advanced fire prevention and control services offered to the public.

To ensure greater efficacy in fire safety, a dedicated State Level Fire and Emergency Service has been established. This service will be led by the Director of the Local Bodies Department, supported by technical officers to fulfill its responsibilities effectively.

The legislation also empowered fire officers with the necessary authority to conduct systematic inspections and issue directives to mitigate potential fire hazards. By enabling firefighters to implement effective firefighting operations, the bill aimed at managing risks and challenges associated with fire emergencies.

Additionally, the bill adopted a cost-effective risk classification system that categorizes buildings into low, medium, or high fire risk categories. This classification not only determined the severity of punishments for violations but also ensured that government resources are strategically allocated to address high-risk properties.

Among the other significant features of the bill are the establishment of a Fire Prevention and Life Safety Fund, the creation of a dedicated training institute, provisions for an insurance scheme, and requirements for the installation of fire hydrants and safety devices on both public and private properties. Penalties for non-compliance are also defined, ensuring strict adherence to fire safety regulations.

BOX

·         Fire safety certificates now valid for three years instead of one

·         Establishment of a system to accredit third-party service providers

·         Building owners must obtain fire safety certificates and submit compliance returns

·         Authority to levy fire tax on all buildings and collect user fees for services

·         Creation of a state level fire and emergency service

·         Fire officers empowered to conduct systematic inspections

·         Buildings categorized as low, medium, or high fire risk with tiered penalties

·         Establishment of a Fire Prevention and Life Safety Fund

·         Provision for a training institute for fire safety personnel

·         Mandates installation of fire hydrants and safety devices on properties

·         Defined penalties for non-compliance to ensure adherence to safety regulations