At the district level, the collector will head the task force, supported by the SP, CDMO, assistant fire officer, and the superintendent engineer-cum-deputy electrical inspector
In response to a recent directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Odisha government has established joint task forces to conduct regular fire safety audits in hospitals and nursing homes across the state. These task forces will operate at both the municipal and district levels, focusing on fire and electrical safety inspections in health facilities.
At the municipal level, a five-member committee has been formed. This committee will be led by the municipal commissioner and will include the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) or Superintendent of Police (SP), a fire officer, and an electrical inspector or deputy electrical inspector. For Bhubaneswar and Rourkela, the Director of Capital Hospital and the Director of Rourkela Government Hospital will serve as member-conveners, respectively. In three other municipal corporations, the Chief District Medical Officers (CDMOs) will take on the role of member-convener.
At the district level, the collector will head the task force, supported by the SP, CDMO, assistant fire officer, and the superintendent engineer-cum-deputy electrical inspector.
Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja has instructed the Health and Family Welfare department to compile a list of hospitals and nursing homes that need to be audited for fire and electrical safety. This department has also been tasked with maintaining detailed records of these audits. Additionally, the Health department has directed district collectors to ensure that all government health facilities in their areas take proactive steps to prevent fire incidents.
Health Secretary Shalini Pandit emphasized the importance of regular inspections of firefighting equipment, including fire extinguishers, hydrants, and alarms. She stated, “Hospitals must regularly inspect firefighting equipment and follow a maintenance schedule for all fire safety equipment.”
Districts have also been instructed to develop comprehensive evacuation plans. These plans should include clearly marked escape routes, unobstructed emergency exits, and designated safe assembly areas within health facilities.
These measures are aimed at enhancing the safety and preparedness of hospitals and nursing homes, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle any potential fire emergencies.
