New Directive: Noida Hospitals Must Appoint Emergency In-Charge

Noida: In a bid to bolster fire safety and disaster preparedness, hospitals in Noida have been instructed to appoint a dedicated emergency in-charge. The directive comes in the wake of rising safety concerns, especially following the tragic fire at a nightclub in Goa.

According to the news reports, over the past year, inspections by the Noida Fire Department revealed alarming lapses in several hospitals with more than five beds. Chief Fire Officer Pradeep Kumar Chaubey highlighted that many facilities had blocked or chained emergency staircases, stored materials near exits, and lacked functional firefighting equipment—all of which could severely hinder evacuation during an emergency. Electrical audits were also emphasized, as 80% of fire incidents in buildings are triggered by short circuits.

Under this new guideline, the designated emergency in-charge will be responsible for maintaining records of safety measures and ensuring the installation and upkeep of essential safety infrastructure. This includes functional fire extinguishers, CCTV surveillance, unobstructed emergency exits, safe oxygen storage, public-address systems, stretchers, wheelchairs, and facilities for persons with disabilities.

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Officials said follow-up inspections will be carried out, and hospitals found non-compliant could face licence suspension or sealing until safety standards are met. Authorities emphasized that patient and staff safety cannot be compromised, and these measures are essential to prevent future tragedies.

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