A hospital fire is especially dangerous because many patients cannot evacuate without help. Intensive care units use electrical equipment, oxygen and other systems that require careful maintenance. Fire safety therefore cannot be reduced to displaying a certificate near the entrance.
What hospitals are expected to maintain
Requirements differ by building type and local authority, but hospitals generally need approvals and systems such as fire detection, alarms, extinguishers, marked exits and evacuation plans. Electrical installations and oxygen systems require regular inspection. Local fire services and building authorities enforce the applicable legal requirements.
NABH has repeatedly advised healthcare organisations to conduct fire-risk assessments, maintain prevention and suppression systems, train staff and review emergency protocols. Accreditation does not replace statutory permissions.
Common risks inside hospitals
- Overloaded electrical circuits and poorly maintained wiring
- Blocked exits or locked staircases
- Unsafe storage of cylinders and flammable material
- Renovation work near occupied patient areas
- Staff who have never practised an evacuation
A fire NOC is not enough
A no-objection certificate reflects compliance at a point in time. Conditions can change when beds are added, rooms are converted or new equipment is installed. Hospitals need periodic audits and documented correction of faults.
Evacuating patients needs a special plan
Hospital evacuation cannot copy an office drill. Teams must identify patients who can walk, those who need wheelchairs and those dependent on ventilators or oxygen. Staff should know the safest horizontal and vertical evacuation routes and where patients will receive continuing care.
Questions patients and staff can ask
- Are exits clearly marked and unobstructed?
- When was the last fire drill conducted?
- Do night-shift workers know their assigned roles?
- Are oxygen and electrical systems inspected on schedule?
- Is there an alternative location for critical patients?
Responsibility must be continuous
Hospital management is responsible for maintaining systems, but safety also depends on engineering, nursing, security and clinical teams. Faults should be reported immediately and closure of an unsafe area should not be delayed for convenience.
Fire readiness is best measured before an emergency. A working alarm, an open exit and a trained night team can make the difference between a contained incident and a disaster.
Source: NABH fire-safety notifications for healthcare organisations.