Serious questions have emerged about fire safety arrangements at the National Institute of Child Health (NICH) in Karachi. Sources claim several emergency exits remain locked at the major government-run children’s hospital. They also allege that some fire extinguishers are not functioning properly.
According to the sources, hospital authorities have not regularly tested or monitored the fire extinguishers for a long period.
The hospital also reportedly lacks an effective fire alarm system. This could create additional risks during an emergency, particularly in a facility treating vulnerable children.
Sources further claimed that doctors, nurses and other employees have not received proper firefighting training. They also reportedly have not participated in fire drills for around 10 years. These concerns have become more significant because NICH has reportedly experienced two major fire incidents during the past six years.
Hospital Cites Security Concerns
NICH Director Dr Nasir Suddle confirmed that emergency exits have remained locked.
However, he attributed the measure to security concerns and previous incidents involving theft at the facility.
According to Dr Suddle, hospital staff members have keys to the emergency exit doors. Therefore, authorities can open the exits if an emergency occurs.
The director also acknowledged that hospital employees had not received firefighting training.
He said hospital management was holding meetings to address the issue and improve safety arrangements.
Dr Suddle maintained that fire extinguishers were available throughout the hospital.
Fire Safety Training Remains a Key Concern
Despite the availability of firefighting equipment, the reported lack of regular training and drills remains a serious concern. Emergency drills help hospital staff understand evacuation procedures and respond quickly during fires. Moreover, accessible exits and functional alarms can provide crucial warnings during an emergency.
Dr Suddle said relevant staff members would be held responsible if an emergency occurred at the hospital. The concerns at NICH come amid renewed attention to fire safety at healthcare facilities across Pakistan. Recent incidents have highlighted the need for hospitals to regularly inspect equipment and train their employees.
For a hospital caring for children, effective emergency planning is particularly important. Authorities will now need to ensure that fire safety arrangements remain functional, accessible and regularly tested.
