BHUBANESWAR: The state government has asked all field functionaries of the SSEPD department to pay special attention to fire safety measures in special schools and institutions, rehabilitation centres, old age homes and similar establishments.
The direction came in wake of the fire tragedy at SCB MCH recently. The department has asked the district social security officers (DSSOs), nodal officers of district disability rehabilitation centres (DDRCs), heads of State Institute of Empowerment of PwD (SIEP), State Institute for Disability Rehabilitation (SIDR) and advanced rehabilitation centres (ARCs) to take immediate measures in this direction.
In a letter to the DSSOs, the department directed to ensure proper fire safety measures in all district and subordinate offices as well as rehabilitation centres, therapy centres, special schools, geriatric care centres, skill training centres and other establishments including integrated infrastructure complexes.
The DSSOs were asked to ensure necessary measures for fire safety certification of such structures, and installation and maintenance of essential fire safety systems like fire extinguishers at appropriate and accessible locations of those buildings.
The department laid stress on installation of essential fire safety equipment such as fire alarm and detection system, emergency exit with clear signage and sprinkler system. It also called for use of fire-resistant materials, regular maintenance, safety inspections and mock drills on the premises of those establishments to avoid any untoward incident.
“Well-defined evacuation protocols must be followed to safeguard lives and minimise property damage in the event of emergencies. Special attention must be given to the safety of CwD/PwD beneficiaries, considering their specific needs during emergency situations,” said SSEPD additional secretary Sonia Behera.
The field-level officials were also asked to ensure regular inspection of electrical installations and fire suppression systems. The state government has also directed all commercial establishments, housing societies and large buildings to obtain and maintain valid fire safety certificates as per guidelines.