PIMS fire: Govt makes 10 fire safety protocols mandatory for schools

KARACHI: The Sindh government on Thursday made 10 comprehensive fire safety protocols mandatory for all privately managed schools across the province, directing them to adopt and strictly implement the measures with immediate effect.

The decision comes in the wake of the devastating fire at the nursery of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), which claimed the lives of 14 newborn babies.

Rafia Javed, Additional Director Registration at the Directorate of Inspection and Registration of Private Institutions, School Education and Literacy Department, issued a letter to the principals and administrators of all private schools in Sindh.

“In view of the recent fire incidents and in order to prevent any untoward occurrence, it is hereby made mandatory for all privately managed schools to adopt and strictly implement the 10 comprehensive fire safety protocols with immediate effect,” the letter stated.

Under the directive:

Fire detection and extinguishing systems: All school buildings must be equipped with fully functional fire alarms, smoke detectors and appropriate fire extinguishers on every floor and at critical locations. The systems must be regularly tested, serviced and maintained.

Emergency exits: Emergency exits, staircases and escape routes must remain unlocked, clearly marked, well illuminated and free of obstructions to ensure rapid evacuation.

Electrical and high-risk areas: Electrical wiring, switchboards, laboratories, kitchens, generator rooms and other high-risk areas must undergo periodic inspection, preventive maintenance and certification by qualified professionals.

Evacuation plans: Updated fire evacuation plans, floor maps and emergency instructions must be prominently displayed in classrooms, corridors, stairwells and common areas.

Fire drills: Schools must conduct fire evacuation drills at least twice during each academic year and maintain records of the dates, observations and corrective measures for inspection.

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Staff training: Teaching and non-teaching staff must receive regular training in fire emergency response, evacuation procedures and basic first aid.

Assistance for vulnerable students: Special arrangements must be made for the safe evacuation of students with disabilities, preschool children and other vulnerable groups.

Assembly points: Each school must designate a clearly identified assembly point outside the building. Attendance must be checked immediately after evacuation to ensure everyone has been accounted for.

Re-entry restrictions: No one may re-enter school premises until clearance has been granted by the relevant emergency or regulatory authorities.

Legal compliance and records: Schools must comply with applicable fire safety laws and building regulations and maintain valid safety certificates and inspection records for verification.

The directive instructed school administrations to circulate the measures among staff and ensure their implementation “in letter and spirit.”

It warned that non-compliance would be viewed seriously and that action would be initiated against schools found violating the instructions.