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Key Points

The Health Ministry has initiated a comprehensive Fire Safety Week to enhance safety protocols in healthcare facilities across India. Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava emphasized the critical need for fire prevention and patient protection strategies. The week-long initiative includes webinars, mock drills, and pledge ceremonies aimed at raising awareness among healthcare professionals. By engaging both public and private health sectors, the ministry seeks to cultivate a robust culture of safety and emergency preparedness.

Key Points: Health Ministry Launches Fire Safety Week for Patient Care

  • Ministry launches nationwide Fire Safety Week from April 21-25
  • Over 3,000 participants attend fire safety webinar series
  • Health facilities pledge to prioritize patient and staff safety
2 min read

Develop culture of safety, well-being of patients at healthcare facilities: Ministry

Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava emphasizes fire safety and patient well-being across healthcare facilities nationwide

"We must develop a culture of safety at health facilities - Punya Salila Srivastava, Health Secretary"

New Delhi, April 22

Highlighting the issue of fire prevention and safety, Health Ministry on Tuesday said it is committed to ensure safety and well-being of patients (both outpatients and inpatients), their attendants and others at the healthcare facilities.

Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava stressed on the importance of ensuring fire and electrical safety in all health facilities, while highlighting need for fire safety planning, capacity building of all healthcare functionaries on hospital fire safety as well as need to organise regular mock drills on fire preparedness as well as patient evacuation.

The ministry has launched the Fire Safety Week in collaboration with all states/UTs as well as relevant central ministries and departments from April 21-25.

At the pledge-taking ceremony, Srivastava also highlighted the need to develop a culture of safety at health facilities.

She urged all public and private health facilities to participate maximally in the activities and share the best practices with the Ministry to enhance and ensure the fire safety across all health facilities in the country.

The participants pledged to uphold the highest standards of fire safety within their respective organisations and healthcare facilities; cultivate a culture of fire safety awareness within their respective institutions by educating all staff and stakeholders on fire prevention, emergency response procedures, and the vital resources needed to maintain a safe environment; prioritize the safety of every patient, colleague, and visitor and embrace innovative solutions to prevent fire hazards.

Various activities have been planned throughout the country during the 'Fire Safety Week' in order to raise awareness regarding importance of prevention and mitigation of fire hazards in all healthcare facilities across the country.

The ministry also organised a two-day webinar series on fire and electrical safety in health facilities, covering crucial aspects like prevention, regulatory compliance, maintenance and operations of fire detection and suppression systems, patient evacuation as well as holding mock-drills/ mock exercises to engage.

The webinar series has been attended by over 3,000 participants from all states/UTs.

Considering the need for active participation by private health sector, the ministry has also urged Indian Medical Association, Central ministries and departments to participate in observing 'Fire Safety Week' activities.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
This is such an important initiative! After the recent hospital fires we've seen, fire safety can't be overlooked. Regular mock drills will definitely help save lives. 👏
P
Priya M.
My mother was in a hospital last year when a small fire broke out in the kitchen. The staff didn't seem prepared at all. Glad to see this focus on training and awareness.
A
Anil S.
While I appreciate the initiative, I hope this isn't just another awareness week that gets forgotten afterwards. Need sustained efforts and strict enforcement of safety norms.
S
Sunita R.
As a nurse, I can't stress enough how crucial this is! We need proper evacuation plans for immobile patients. The webinars sound very informative.
V
Vikram P.
Good move but implementation is key. Many private hospitals cut corners on safety to save costs. Hope the IMA ensures all members participate seriously.
N
Neha T.
The focus on electrical safety is much needed! So many hospital fires start from faulty wiring. Maybe they should include surprise inspections too? 🔍

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