The fire at Sindh Government Hospital Liaquatabad in Karachi was more than just a tragic event. It was a stark reminder of the urgent need for stringent building safety regulations. As an investigative committee unraveled the layers of missteps that led to the devastation, it became clear that a lack of firefighting systems, compromised gas supplies and inadequate electric wiring were at the heart of the matter. Had there been an adequate firefighting system in place, the loss of lives and extensive damage could have been mitigated. Moreover, non-functional gas supplies and deficient electric wiring posed a grave risk to both patients and staff, compromising critical medical procedures and escalating fire hazards.
The committee’s recommendations for firefighting system implementation and staff training are steps in the right direction. But these are not isolated measures. They should be part of a larger, more comprehensive framework of building safety regulations. Regular inspections and audits must be conducted to ensure that healthcare facilities are in compliance with safety standards. For the Sindh Government Hospital Liaquatabad, more frequent inspections may be necessary due to the high risk associated with fire and other safety hazards. In addition to annual inspections, quarterly or half-yearly inspections should be considered to ensure that all safety measures are in place and functioning properly. Inspections should be conducted by qualified professionals who have a thorough understanding of international building safety standards and guidelines. Additionally, hospitals should establish emergency response plans to effectively deal with fires or other emergencies.
The fire at Sindh Government Hospital Liaquatabad serves as a wake-up call for stricter building safety regulations at healthcare facilities. It is imperative that we take immediate action to ensure the safety of all those who enter our hospitals. As the investigative committee continues its work, it is our hope that its findings will pave the way for safer systems.
Published in The Express Tribune, February 25th, 2024.
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