Sindh orders private schools to strengthen fire safety

The Sindh School Education and Literacy Department has directed all privately managed schools across the

KARACHI: The Sindh School Education and Literacy Department has directed all privately managed schools across the province to immediately strengthen their fire safety arrangements.

The decision follows the tragic fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad, where 14 newborn babies lost their lives.

The provincial department has ordered schools to implement comprehensive safety measures to protect students, teachers and other staff members from fire-related emergencies.

Under the new directives, every school must have fully operational fire alarms, smoke detectors and suitable fire extinguishers. The equipment must be installed on every floor and at other important locations.

Schools have also been instructed to regularly inspect, test and maintain their firefighting equipment. Authorities stressed that safety systems must remain functional at all times.

Emergency exits and escape routes must also remain accessible. School administrations have been told to keep staircases and evacuation routes unlocked, properly marked and well illuminated.

No material or equipment should be placed in areas that could obstruct evacuation during an emergency.

The department has further directed schools to regularly inspect electrical wiring and switchboards. Laboratories, kitchens, generator rooms and other high-risk areas must also undergo periodic safety checks and preventive maintenance.

These inspections must be carried out by qualified professionals where required.

Schools have also been asked to display updated evacuation plans and floor maps at prominent locations. Emergency instructions should be visible in classrooms, corridors, staircases and other common areas.

Another key requirement is the introduction of regular fire evacuation drills. Every private school must conduct such drills at least twice during each academic year.

School administrations will have to maintain proper records of these exercises. The records should include the date of each drill, observations and corrective measures taken to address identified weaknesses.

Teaching and non-teaching staff must receive regular training in fire emergency response, evacuation procedures and basic first aid.

Special arrangements must also be made for students with disabilities, preschool children and other vulnerable students who may require additional assistance during an emergency.

Each school must establish a clearly marked assembly point outside the building. After an evacuation, attendance must be checked immediately to ensure that all students and staff have safely left the premises.

The department has also prohibited anyone from re-entering a school building after an evacuation until clearance is provided by the relevant emergency or regulatory authorities.

Private schools have been directed to comply with all applicable fire safety laws and building regulations. They must also maintain valid safety certificates and inspection records for inspection and verification.

The department has instructed school administrations to communicate the new requirements to all employees and ensure their implementation.