Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has directed all organisations 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. Karachi Port Trust Hospital has been given particular priority, according to a letter addressed to heads of organizations.
The audits will assess the availability, condition and functionality of fire extinguishers, alarms, smoke detectors, hydrants, sprinklers and other firefighting equipment. They will also examine electrical wiring, distribution systems, generators, UPS units and other potential fire hazards.
The organisations have further been directed to verify that emergency exits, escape routes, stairways and fire exits are clearly marked and free of obstructions. Emergency lighting, safety signage, evacuation arrangements, response plans, assembly points and staff responsibilities will also be reviewed.
The directive calls for regular inspection, testing, servicing and timely replacement of firefighting equipment, along with fire safety and evacuation drills and staff training. Compliance with relevant fire safety codes, building regulations and requirements prescribed by fire and emergency services authorities will also be assessed.
All deficiencies identified during the audits are to be rectified immediately, particularly those posing risks to life or property. The ministry has allowed organisations to engage qualified fire safety professionals and relevant fire and rescue authorities for inspections and certification, where necessary.
Heads of the organisations have been instructed to submit building-wise audit reports to the ministry within 15 days. The reports must identify deficiencies, corrective measures taken and timelines for resolving outstanding issues.
The heads have also been directed to personally supervise implementation and ensure that all avoidable fire safety hazards are promptly addressed.
