Punjab CM Maryam orders fresh safety audit of hospitals after Pims tragedy

• Punjab orders immediate review of hospital fire safety measures.
• Administration asked to complete fresh audit within 24 hours.
• Deputy commissioners asked to conduct monthly emergency drills at hospitals.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed the administration and hospital authorities to conduct a fresh audit of public sector health facilities within 24 hours and submit a report on the findings.

According to a letter issued by the Chief Minister Office, the Punjab government has issued priority instructions for public sector health facilities across the province, ordering an immediate review of fire safety arrangements, emergency exits and firefighting equipment.

The development comes after at least 14 infants died in the gynaecology ward fire incident at Pims hospital in Islamabad.

The provincial government has directed deputy commissioners to check the availability and functionality of fire extinguishers and other firefighting arrangements at public hospitals and health facilities. They have also been asked to assess the accessibility and suitability of emergency exits in consultation with Rescue 1122 teams.

The instructions also call for Rescue 1122 to review the availability and functionality of hydrant points and identify locations where new hydrants are needed near health facilities. Relevant departments have been given one week to carry out necessary rectification and installation work.

The government has also ordered a complete review of the safe functioning of air-conditioners, electrical wiring and other electro-medical equipment at hospitals. The relevant health departments have been directed to submit compliance reports by August 29.

The instructions require deputy commissioners, with the assistance of Rescue 1122 and other departments, to conduct monthly emergency drills at health facilities to ensure continued compliance with emergency safety measures.

Punjab CM Maryam has further directed the health departments and the CEO of the Infrastructure Development Authority Punjab (IDAP) to prepare a feasibility report on installing technology-driven fire alarm systems, smoke detectors and water sprinkler systems in intensive care units, nurseries, emergency units, district and tehsil headquarters hospitals and tertiary care hospitals across Punjab.