Organisations directed to inspect fire equipment, electrical systems and evacuation arrangements and submit reports within 15 days
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has directed all organisations operating under the administrative control of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs to immediately conduct comprehensive fire safety audits of their buildings and premises following the recent incident at PIMS Hospital.
The directive covers offices, hospitals, residential buildings, workshops, warehouses, oil piers and other facilities under the ministry’s administrative control. Karachi Port Trust Hospital has been given particular priority, according to a letter issued to heads of the organisations.
Firefighting systems to undergo inspection
The audits will assess the availability, condition and operational status of fire extinguishers, fire alarms, smoke detectors, hydrants, sprinklers and other firefighting equipment.
Organisations have also been directed to examine electrical wiring, distribution systems, generators, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units and other potential sources of fire hazards.
The safety review will further cover emergency exits, escape routes, stairways and fire exits to ensure they are clearly marked and remain free from obstruction.
Emergency lighting, safety signage, evacuation arrangements, emergency response plans, assembly points and staff responsibilities will also be assessed as part of the audits.
Fire drills and staff training ordered
The ministry has instructed organisations to ensure regular inspection, testing and servicing of firefighting equipment and replace defective or outdated equipment on a timely basis.
The directive also calls for fire safety and evacuation drills, along with appropriate training for employees so they can respond effectively to emergencies.
Compliance with applicable fire safety codes, building regulations and requirements prescribed by fire and emergency services authorities will also be reviewed during the audits.
All deficiencies identified during the inspections are to be rectified immediately, particularly those that could pose a risk to human life or property.
Where required, organisations may engage qualified fire safety professionals as well as relevant fire and rescue authorities to conduct inspections and provide certification.
Reports to be submitted within 15 days
Heads of the organisations have been instructed to submit building-wise fire safety audit reports to the Ministry of Maritime Affairs within 15 days.
The reports must clearly identify deficiencies, corrective measures already taken and timelines for resolving outstanding issues.
The ministry has further directed heads of organisations to personally supervise implementation of the safety measures and ensure that all avoidable fire hazards are addressed promptly.
The directive is aimed at strengthening fire preparedness and reducing risks to employees, visitors, buildings and critical infrastructure under the maritime affairs ministry’s administrative control.