A fire audit by the Capital Development Authority has revealed serious fire and life safety deficiencies at Islamabad’s major government hospital, Poly Clinic, ARY News reported.

According to the audit, 34 fire and life safety deficiencies were identified at the hospital.

The report said gas leakage was also detected near the central kitchen, with immediate corrective action recommended.

It added that several important sections of Poly Clinic do not have proper emergency exits, while multiple emergency routes were found blocked or obstructed.

The hospital also lacks an automatic fire detection system and a manual fire alarm system. Sprinklers, hose reels, wet risers and yard hydrant systems are also missing.

The audit further noted that there are no dedicated underground or rooftop water tanks for firefighting.

Electrical wiring at the hospital was described as extremely poor. The report also found inadequate arrangements for evacuating patients from the CCU, ICU and NICU.

Poly Clinic does not have a proper emergency and evacuation plan. Emergency lights, exit signs, and an assembly area are also not available in sufficient form.

The report said the hospital has no fire safety training or initial firefighting team. It also pointed to poor cleanliness, lack of non-slip protection on stairs, and absence of fire blankets, safety equipment and anti-shatter protection for glass.

The hospital also lacks proper fire compartmentation in important areas.

The CDA directed Poly Clinic to immediately restore all emergency exits and recommended urgent correction of the gas leakage and unsafe electrical wiring.

It also recommended installing fire alarm, detection, and firefighting systems on a priority basis.

The authority said immediate correction of the fire and life safety deficiencies is necessary. A re-inspection of Poly Clinic will be carried out once the shortcomings are addressed.

Get the latest news and stories wherever you prefer.

Add ProPakistani to Preferred Sources and see more of our stories in Google Search and Top Stories.

Shares