Fire Hazards

FIRE HAZARDS

Introduction

·       Fire hazards are among the most dangerous threats in any facility, but their implications in a hospital can be particularly devastating due to the presence of patients who may be immobile, oxygen-rich environments, and complex equipment.

·       Ensuring fire safety in hospitals is crucial not just for protecting property but also for saving lives.

Elements of Fire

A fire requires three essential components, often described as the Fire Triangle:

• Fuel: Any combustible material – paper, cloth, chemicals, gases, etc.
• Heat: A source to ignite the fuel – electrical sparks, open flames, friction, etc.
• Oxygen: Usually present in the air (21%), but enriched environments like oxygen therapy units in hospitals can accelerate fire spread.

These three elements must be present simultaneously for a fire to occur. Removing any one will extinguish the fire.

Fire Hazard

·       A fire hazard refers to any condition or situation that increases the likelihood of fire or makes the impact of a fire more dangerous.

·       Fire hazards in hospitals can be due to:

·        Faulty wiring

·        Overloaded circuits

·        Flammable gases

·        Paper records

·        Linens and curtains

·        Cooking in hospital kitchens

·        Unattended equipment

Causes of Hospital Fire

• Electrical faults: Short circuits, loose wiring, overloading
• Oxygen leakage: Supports rapid combustion
• Negligence: Smoking in unauthorized areas, unattended equipment
• Surgical equipment: Lasers, cauterizing tools
• Kitchens and cafeterias: Cooking oil fires
• Chemical storage: Improper storage of inflammable chemicals

Classification of Fire

Class	Type of Material	Example
A	Solid materials (wood, cloth, paper)	Curtains, furniture, bedding
B	Flammable liquids	Alcohol, solvents, oils
C	Flammable gases	LPG, oxygen, anesthetic gases
D	Combustible metals	Magnesium, potassium
E	Electrical fires	Electrical panels, wiring
F	Cooking oils/fats	Kitchen fires

Fire Protection

Fire protection is a set of practices to reduce the impact of fire through:

• Passive Protection: Fire-resistant materials, fire doors, safe design
• Active Protection: Fire alarms, extinguishers, sprinklers
• Procedural Measures: Emergency drills, fire safety training, evacuation plans

Fire Points and Escape Routes

Fire Points:

• Areas equipped with:
• Fire extinguishers (CO₂, foam, dry chemical)
• Fire alarm buttons
• Hose reels
• Sand buckets
• Fire hydrants

Escape Routes:

• Clearly marked pathways leading to safety
• Should be:
• Unobstructed
• Well-lit with emergency lights
• Equipped with exit signs
• Known to all staff and rehearsed during drills

Risk Evaluation

• Identifying fire hazards
• Assessing who might be harmed and how
• Evaluating existing precautions
• Determining additional control measures
• Documenting findings
• Reviewing and updating assessments regularly

Meaning of Fire Manual

A Fire Manual is a formal document containing:

• Hospital fire safety policy
• Roles and responsibilities of staff
• Action plans in case of fire
• Evacuation procedures
• Maintenance of fire safety equipment
• Record of fire drills and training

Guidelines in Fire Manual

• Maintain clear corridors and staircases
• Ensure all staff know how to operate fire equipment
• Do not block emergency exits
• Store oxygen and flammable materials properly
• Conduct fire drills quarterly
• Keep emergency contact numbers visible
• Maintain all electrical equipment regularly

Elements of Fire Safety in Hospitals

• Detection: Smoke detectors, heat sensors
• Suppression: Sprinklers, fire extinguishers
• Compartmentation: Fireproof doors, partitions
• Egress: Clear exits, ramps, signage
• Evacuation: Wheelchairs, stretchers, evacuation chairs
• Emergency response: Fire wardens, communication systems

Fire Safety Training

• Understanding fire hazards
• Use of fire extinguishers (PASS technique: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep)
• Raising alarms
• Evacuation procedures
• Helping patients evacuate
• Knowing personal roles during fire
• Use of fire blankets, shut-off valves, etc.

Do’s and Don’ts for Electrical Fire Prevention

Do’s:

• Use certified electrical equipment
• Inspect wiring and devices regularly
• Use circuit breakers and surge protectors
• Keep electrical areas dry and ventilated
• Train staff to identify warning signs like sparks or burning smells

Don’ts:

• Don’t overload sockets
• Don’t use damaged wires or plugs
• Don’t cover equipment with flammable materials
• Don’t ignore unusual sounds or smells from devices
• Don’t use temporary wiring for permanent use

Action to be Taken in Case of Fire in a Hospital

1. Raise the Alarm:
• Activate fire alarm system
• Call the fire brigade (Dial 101 or hospital emergency number)
2. Rescue Patients:
• Prioritize non-ambulatory and ICU patients
• Use evacuation chairs and stretchers
3. Contain Fire:
• Close doors to contain smoke and fire
• Switch off central air-conditioning
4. Use Fire Extinguishers:
• Based on fire class
• Trained staff should attempt small fires only
5. Evacuation:
• Follow escape routes
• Guide patients and staff to assembly points
6. Headcount & Medical Aid:
• Account for all staff and patients
• Provide first aid and transfer injured
7. Report & Investigate:
• Document incident
• Conduct fire cause analysis
• Take preventive actions to avoid recurrence

Video Description

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