Summary The lapses at Islamabad’s largest public-sector hospital have raised serious questions about the safety of patients and medical staff
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – Serious concerns over administrative negligence and fire safety arrangements at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) have emerged following the tragic fire that claimed the lives of 14 newborn babies.
According to sources, emergency fire drills have reportedly not been conducted at the hospital for several years, leaving medical staff without practical training on how to respond to a fire, evacuate patients and protect themselves during an emergency.
Sources said fire safety drills are designed to train medical personnel in immediate response procedures, patient evacuation and personal safety. Hospitals are also required to conduct fire safety training for their staff every six months.
The sources further claimed that oxygen cylinders contributed to the rapid spread of the fire, while some emergency exits and exit gates at the hospital were allegedly kept closed.
The hospital’s alarm system also reportedly failed to activate promptly during the emergency, according to sources.
The lapses at Islamabad’s largest public-sector hospital have raised serious questions about the safety of patients and medical staff. Hundreds of patients are being treated across various departments of PIMS, while sources claim that there is no effective and coordinated plan for the rapid evacuation of patients and staff during emergencies.
Following the tragedy, calls have intensified for a comprehensive review of fire safety measures at the hospital, including emergency exits, alarm systems and staff training.
