KGMU staff unclear on fire SOPs, mock drills ‘compliance-only’ | Lucknow News

Lucknow: King George’s Medical University’s (KGMU) surgery department has gaps in evacuation preparedness, staff training and electrical safety, revealed a TOI reality check conducted three days after a short circuit in the building’s basement triggered a fire.The incident forced the evacuation of nearly 50 children, including two on oxygen support. Doctors, nurses and support staff moved patients through multiple routes, with ambulatory patients leaving on their own and oxygen-dependent and post-operative patients requiring assistance.The inspection found that while the building is equipped with sprinklers, smoke alarms, fire hydrants and extinguishers, several staff members were unclear about standard operating procedures during a fire or smoke emergency. Many said mock drills were infrequent and often conducted to meet compliance requirements rather than test real-world response.“A fire drill has little value if staff know procedures only on paper,” said a doctor, requesting anonymity. “Training must prepare personnel for situations involving smoke, panic, power outages and the evacuation of vulnerable patients.”The inspection also found ward windows shut or jammed, limiting smoke ventilation. There was no marked assembly point and no designated holding area for patients on oxygen support or those recovering from surgery.State fire-safety rules require hospitals to maintain evacuation plans, conduct staff training, ensure equipment maintenance and undergo regular audits. National healthcare guidelines call for patient-specific evacuation protocols and periodic electrical-safety checks.Electrical safety concerns were also noted. One electrical panel contained multiple circuit breakers and exposed wiring, while outdoor electrical cabinets showed rust and visible cables.A battery-backup installation occupied a narrow passage near the surgery department’s fire exit. The internal road leading to the block was also being used by ambulances, cars and two-wheelers, potentially constraining emergency movement.KGMU fire safety in charge Prof Manish Manar said most buildings had cleared fire audits, while reviews for fire NOCs in other buildings were underway. A reminder had recently been sent to the chief fire officer, he said.Manar said the institute had strengthened its fire-safety staff training and infrastructure over the past three years by upgrading hydrant lines and storing hydrant pipes within buildings and pump rooms. However, if there is any shortcoming, that will also be addressed.