New Delhi: With hospitals vulnerable to fire incidents due to high electrical loads and oxygen-rich environments, the government has come out with updated guidelines that focus on patient safety during emergencies and phased evacuation strategies tailored to the needs of critically ill and immobile patients.

The National Guidelines on Fire and Life Safety in Healthcare Facilities (2026) mark a significant upgrade in fire safety preparedness across hospitals, the Union Health Ministry said.

The guidelines expand evacuation planning with specialised protocols for high-risk groups, including patients in ICUs, NICUs (Neonatal Intensive Care Units), PICUs (Pediatric Intensive care Units) and operation theatres.

The revised framework, which updates the 2020 guidelines, has been developed by the Union Health Ministry in consultation with experts from the Directorate General Fire Services, Civil Defence and Home Guards, Bureau of Indian Standards, School of Planning and Architecture and AIIMS institutions.

Officials said hospitals remain particularly vulnerable to fire incidents due to high electrical loads, oxygen-rich environments and the presence of complex medical equipment, necessitating a more robust and standardised safety approach.

The guidelines adopt a comprehensive risk-based strategy, identifying critical zones such as intensive care units, operation theatres, oxygen storage facilities and electrical installations for targeted interventions.

Detailed provisions have been outlined for fire detection and alarm systems, suppression mechanisms, electrical safety and medical gas pipeline systems.

A key feature of the updated document is its emphasis on patient safety during emergencies. It recommends horizontal and phased evacuation strategies tailored to the needs of critically ill and immobile patients, ensuring minimal disruption to life-support systems.

Source: ET Healthworld - May 05,2026