Healthcare facilities are among the most critical infrastructures in society, providing life-saving services to millions of people every day.
However, these facilities are also vulnerable to fire hazards, which can have devastating consequences for patients, staff, and the infrastructure itself.
Understanding What is the Leading Cause of Fires in Healthcare Facilities is essential for implementing effective prevention strategies.
This blog will delve into the statistics, main causes, and prevention methods, while also exploring how GreenTech solutions can play a pivotal role in mitigating these risks.
Ensure your healthcare facility is fully protected against fire hazards.
Book a fire safety assessment with GreenTech now!
Pakistan has experienced several devastating fires in healthcare facilities over the years, resulting in loss of life, injuries, and significant property damage.
These incidents underscore the urgent need for improved fire safety measures in hospitals, clinics, and other medical settings.
Key Incidents
1. 2024 Karachi Hospital Fire
A fire caused by a short circuit in the emergency department of Karachi’s Sindh Government Hospital Liaquatabad injured seven paramedical staff.
The fire, which triggered a fridge compressor explosion, left four in critical condition with severe burns and respiratory issues.
2. 2017 Quetta Hospital Fire
A fire broke out in the casualty ward of Quetta’s Civil Hospital, located on Jinnah Road. Rescue sources reported the incident, which caused panic and disruption in the hospital.
Fortunately, no casualties were reported, but the fire highlighted the persistent lack of fire safety measures in Pakistani healthcare facilities.
3. 2019 Lahore Hospital Fire
A fire broke out in the Musafirkhana of Mayo Hospital, Lahore, causing panic and a stampede-like situation.
No casualties were reported as people evacuated quickly. The blaze damaged furniture, medical equipment, and belongings on the upper floors.
The fire initially started in Musafirkhana and spread to a portion of the indoor ward before being contained.
Secure Your Facility Against Fire Risks
Hospitals and clinics require specialized fire protection.
Main Causes of Fires in Medical Settings
Fires in healthcare facilities can be categorized into two main types:
- Confined fires, which are limited to a small area and do not spread significantly.
- Unconfined fires, which are more severe and require extensive firefighting efforts.
Below, we break down these categories and their leading causes.
1. Confined Fires
Confined fires are typically small and limited to a specific area, such as a kitchen or a single room. However, they can escalate quickly if not addressed promptly.
a. Cooking
Cooking is one of the leading causes of confined fires in healthcare facilities. Kitchens in hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical settings are often busy areas where staff prepare meals for patients and employees.
Common causes of cooking-related fires include:
- Unattended stoves or ovens.
- Grease buildup in cooking equipment.
- Malfunctioning kitchen appliances.
b. Electrical Malfunction
Electrical fires are a significant concern in healthcare facilities due to the high volume of electrical equipment used daily.
Common issues include:
- Overloaded circuits.
- Faulty wiring.
- Damaged power cords or outlets.
- Improper use of extension cords.
c. Heating Systems
Heating systems, such as boilers and space heaters, are another common cause of confined fires.
Issues arise from:
- Poor maintenance of heating equipment.
- Flammable materials placed too close to heat sources.
- Malfunctioning thermostats or controls.
2. Unconfined Fires
Unconfined fires are more severe and can spread rapidly throughout a facility, causing extensive damage and posing a greater risk to life.
a. Electrical Malfunction
Electrical malfunctions are also a leading cause of unconfined fires. In healthcare settings, the reliance on electrical equipment for patient care increases the risk.
Examples include:
- Faulty medical devices.
- Overloaded electrical panels.
- Aging infrastructure that hasn’t been updated to meet current electrical demands.
b. Appliances
Medical and non-medical appliances can also be a source of unconfined fires.
Common culprits include:
- Defective or improperly maintained medical equipment.
- Overheating of appliances like microwaves, refrigerators, or laundry machines.
- Improper storage of flammable materials near appliances.
c. Intentional Acts
While less common, intentional acts of arson can occur in healthcare facilities. These incidents are often motivated by personal grievances or mental health issues and can result in catastrophic consequences.
How Can Healthcare Facilities Reduce the Risk of Fire Outbreaks?
Preventing fires in healthcare facilities is very important because most fire deaths are related to flames and heat, that is why it requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses both the causes and the unique challenges of these environments.
Here are some key strategies:
1. Regular Maintenance and Inspections
- Conduct routine inspections of electrical systems, heating equipment, and kitchen appliances.
- Ensure that all medical and non-medical equipment is properly maintained and serviced.
- Replace outdated or faulty wiring and electrical panels.
2. Staff Training and Education
- Train staff on fire safety protocols, including how to use fire extinguishers and evacuation procedures.
- Conduct regular fire drills to ensure everyone knows how to respond in an emergency.
- Educate staff on the risks of leaving cooking unattended or overloading electrical outlets.
3. Install and Maintain Fire Safety Systems
- Install smoke detectors, fire alarm systems for hospitals, and fire sprinkler systems throughout the facility.
- Ensure that fire extinguishers are easily accessible and regularly inspected.
- Implement advanced fire detection systems that can identify potential hazards before they escalate.
4. Proper Storage and Handling of Flammable Materials
- Store flammable materials, such as oxygen tanks and cleaning supplies, in designated areas away from heat sources.
- Ensure that all flammable liquids are stored in approved containers and properly labeled.
5. Develop and Enforce Fire Safety Policies
- Create comprehensive fire safety policies that address all potential risks.
- Enforce strict guidelines for the use of electrical equipment and appliances.
- Regularly review and update fire safety policies to reflect new risks and technologies.
How GreenTech Can Help
At GreenTech, we specialize in fire safety consultations tailored for healthcare facilities.
Our services include:
- Fire Risk Assessments: We analyze your hospital’s fire risks and suggest improvements.
- Installation of Fire Detection & Suppression Systems: Advanced sprinklers, alarms, and suppression technology.
- Fire Safety Training for Staff: Hands-on training sessions for fire prevention and emergency response.
- Electrical Safety Inspections: Ensuring all wiring, appliances, and power sources comply with fire safety regulations.
- Customized Fire Safety Plans: Creating detailed evacuation procedures and hazard mitigation strategies.
Stay Compliant, Stay Safe
Fire safety regulations are constantly evolving.
GET STARTED WITH GREENTECH TODAY
Now that you have learned What is the Leading Cause of Fires in Healthcare Facilities, they can be prevented with the right strategies and technologies.
GreenTech is committed to helping healthcare facilities reduce their fire risks while also promoting sustainability and efficiency.
By partnering with GreenTech, you can ensure that your facility is equipped with the latest fire safety solutions and that your staff is prepared to respond to any emergency.
Don’t wait until it’s too late.
Contact GreenTech today to schedule a fire safety audit and learn more about how we can help protect your facility, your patients, and your staff. Visit our website to learn about important information about fire safety, like how to activate fire sprinklers etc
