Serious concerns over fire safety and administrative preparedness at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) have emerged after a fire killed 14 newborn babies.
Sources said PIMS had not conducted emergency fire drills for several years. As a result, medical staff may lack practical training in responding to fires and evacuating vulnerable patients.
Hospitals generally use fire drills to train staff in emergency response, patient evacuation and personal safety. Sources said authorities require hospitals to conduct fire safety training for staff every six months.
The sources also claimed that oxygen cylinders helped the fire spread rapidly. They further alleged that some emergency exits and gates remained closed during the incident.
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Meanwhile, the hospital’s alarm system reportedly failed to activate promptly after the fire started.
The reported lapses have raised serious questions about safety arrangements at Islamabad’s largest public-sector hospital. PIMS treats hundreds of patients across multiple departments, many of whom require immediate assistance during an emergency.
Sources also questioned whether the hospital has an effective evacuation plan for patients and staff. Such a plan becomes particularly important in departments treating newborns and critically ill patients.
Following the tragedy, calls have grown for a comprehensive review of PIMS fire safety arrangements. The review should cover emergency exits, alarm systems, oxygen storage and staff training.
Authorities are also expected to examine whether existing safety procedures were properly implemented and identify those responsible for any negligence.
