PHC Directs Hospitals Across Punjab To Strengthen Fire Safety Measures
Punjab Healthcare Commission (PHC) has issued urgent directives for implementing robust fire safety measures in all public and private hospitals across Punjab, aiming to protect patients, healthcare workers, and infrastructure from fires and emergencies.
(Published August 27, 2026 | 10:50 AM – LAHORE, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News))
Key Measures:
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Immediate Action: Health departments, Punjab Emergency Services Department, and hospital administrations are called upon to take immediate steps towards ensuring comprehensive emergency response systems.
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Trained Personnel & Equipment: Hospitals must have trained personnel, functional emergency equipment, adequate resources, and regular emergency drills in place.
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Compliance with MSDS: All hospitals must adhere to prescribed Minimum Service Delivery Standards (MSDS), including Facility Management System (FMS) and Hospital Infection Control (HIC).
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Emergency Coding System: Hospitals are required to establish a system like "Code Red" for fire incidents, maintain firefighting equipment, train staff, conduct drills, and develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
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Clear Exit Maps & Certifications: Prominent display of emergency exit maps and obtaining building safety and fitness certificates are mandatory.
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Legal Inspections: The Punjab Emergency Services Department is tasked with inspecting hospitals under relevant laws and issuing safety certificates upon meeting requirements.
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Audits & Reporting: Fire safety audits must be completed promptly. Non-compliant hospitals will receive inspection reports with recommendations for improvement, while details will be shared with the PHC. The Department of Emergency Services should provide a record of past inspections and non-complying hospitals.
The PHC emphasizes its commitment to coordinating with institutions and monitoring compliance to ensure safe healthcare services.
