Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed an immediate comprehensive audit of fire safety measures and emergency readiness across all public sector health facilities in the province. This directive follows the recent incident at PIMS hospital, where 14 newborns were delivered on the same day, raising concerns about hospital safety protocols.
The CM’s Office has instructed deputy commissioners to evaluate the presence and operational status of fire extinguishers and firefighting equipment at teaching hospitals, district and tehsil headquarters hospitals, as well as Maryam Nawaz Hospitals and Health Clinics. These inspections will also include an assessment of emergency exits, ensuring their accessibility and adequacy in coordination with Rescue 1122 teams.
Provincial health departments have been tasked with supporting district administrations to expedite this audit process. A consolidated report compiling findings from all districts is expected by August 27. Additionally, Rescue 1122 will review the availability and functionality of hydrant points at medical facilities and identify areas requiring new installations.
In a significant development, the Chief Minister has ordered a review of the safety standards related to air conditioning units, electrical wiring, and other electro-medical devices within hospitals. Compliance reports on these reviews must be submitted within three days.
Further instructions include conducting monthly mock emergency drills at healthcare centers and exploring the feasibility of installing advanced fire alarm systems, smoke detectors, and water sprinkler systems, particularly in intensive care units, nurseries, emergency departments, and tertiary-care hospitals.
Divisional commissioners have been assigned the responsibility to personally oversee the implementation of these safety measures, while the CM’s Office will maintain ongoing monitoring to ensure full compliance with the directives.
