Fire Safety Compliance for ESI Establishments

File No.- Pt.W-11/12/1/MISC/2017-PMD 06-02-2026 To, All Additional Commissioners / RDs, Regional Offices All MS ESIC Hosp./Model Hosp./Super Specialty Hospitals All Deans, ESIC Medical / Dental / Paramedical Colleges All Directors / JDs (I/c) / DDs(I/c), Sub-Regional Offices Directors (Medical), Delhi / Noida Subject: Fire Safety Compliance for all ESI establishments-Review of Actions & Preventive Measures-reg. Sir / Madam, In continuation of the instructions issued by ESIC Headquarters and the directions of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) on fire and life safety, it is noted with concern that the Fire & life Safety Compliance Report in Annexure-A of Headquarters letter of even number dated 15.10.2025 followed by hq. letter dt. 24.12.2025 has not been received from some Regions/Institutions. The matter is therefore reiterated for immediate attention. In continuation of the above, the following are reiterated hereunder:

1. It is noted with a sense of grave concern that, as on date, the Fire & Life Safety status Reports have been received only from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Assam only. Despite adequate time and reminders, the reports from the other Regions / Institutions have not been received. This is an unacceptable deficiency in complying with safety-related instructions.

2. ESIC hospitals and medical colleges are high-occupancy, life- critical facilities that house vulnerable and bedridden patients. Fire and life safety measures in such facilities are not only desirable but an absolute necessity for life-saving infrastructure. Any deficiency in this regard is an unacceptable risk to human life, hospital functioning, and ESIC assets.

3. All Regional Directors, Medical Superintendents, and Deans are hereby directed to ensure that the prescribed status Report is submitted within 15 days from the date of issue of this letter.

4. Non-submission of the report within the stipulated timeline would entail fixation of responsibility on the concerned Head of Institution and defaulting officers, and the matter would be brought to the notice of the Competent Authority for appropriate administrative action. Pt.W-11/12/1/MISC/2017-PMD I/3560482/2026

5. In continuation of the ESIC Fire Safety Advisory issued vide Headquarters letter dated 29.02.2024, the role-wise responsibilities for fire safety shall be as outlined below but not limited to these, are reiterated for strict compliances by all concerned:- A. Engineering Wing (Civil & Electrical):- i. It shall be mandatorily ensured that all structural and non- structural fire and life safety provisions under SR/ARMO works and AMC/CMC of MEP equipment are strictly complied with, without any deviation, in accordance with NBC-2016 (Part-IV), CPWD Specifications, applicable IS Codes, CEA Safety Regulations, and MoHFW direction issued vide Hq. letter dt. 24.01.2025. ii. Thorough inspection shall be carried out to ensure that all equipment and services installed are functioning efficiently, all safety features are in proper working order, and the systems are adequately maintained to ensure safe and correct operation. iii. Make thorough inspections of staircases, fire exits, ramps, refuge areas, service shafts, electrical rooms, DG-sets, fire- pump rooms, HVAC and other critical MEPs service installations. iv. Ensure that all fire safety-related works, including rectification, special repairs, and AMC/CMC of fire protection and MEP systems, are carried out strictly in accordance with CPWD norms, extant GFR provisions, applicable CVC guidelines, and only after obtaining prior Technical Sanction/scrutiny of AMC/CMC proposal at the level of competent engineers. v. No temporary solution, sub-standard material, unauthorized change, or deviation from approved specifications shall be allowed. vi. Keep updated records of inspections, testing, mock drills, and maintenance of all fire and life safety installations in e-file on monthly basis. B. Housekeeping Services:- i. Ensure that corridors, stairways, fire exits, refuge areas, and assembly points are kept free from obstruction at all times. ii. Prevent the accumulation of combustible materials like waste, linen, cartons, packaging, and scrap in patient care and service areas. iii. Ensure segregation, storage, and disposal of inflammable materials in consultation with the Engineering and Hospital Administration departments. C. Security Services:- i. Adhere to strict access control measures in electrical rooms, DG Pt.W-11/12/1/MISC/2017-PMD I/3560482/2026

sets, fire pump rooms, and other critical service areas. ii. Ensure constant surveillance, especially during night hours and the peak summer months. iii. Ensure that the security personnel are trained in operating the fire alarm system, first response, evacuation support, and coordination with the local fire department. D. Hospital / Medical & ROs Administration:- i. Strict compliance with all directions issued by MoHFW, DGHS, NDMA, NABH, and ESIC Headquarters regarding fire safety and review periodically basis. ii. Fire mock drills and staff sensitization programs on a regular basis, with documentation. iii. Evacuation plans, fire safety signs, emergency contact numbers, and SOPs to be displayed prominently. iv. Engage with the Engineering, Housekeeping, and Security departments to close all identified gaps without any delay. v. Designate a fire officer of the rank of Assistant directors and SSO for each ESIC Hospital/Medical colleges and hospital, Regional offices, SRO level as instructed by hqrs. Vide letter no. No. - W- 11/12/1/Misc./2017-PMD, dt. 15.06.2021 and subsequent letter dt. 12.08.2021. E. Mandatory compliance with Government/Statutory directives:- i. The directions issued by MoHFW, DGHS, NDMA, NABH, and ESIC Headquarters regarding fire and electrical safeties are mandatory and binding. ii. The deficiencies identified through inspections, audits, or Fire Authorities are to be removed immediately and cannot be postponed on administrative, procedural, or financial considerations. F. Additional mandatory directions in view of summer season:- i. Thorough inspection of electrical installations to determine the connected load, check for overloading/overheating, and ensure immediate removal of all temporary, unauthorized, or makeshift electrical connections. ii. Mandatory verification and functional testing of all fire protection systems, including fire detection and alarm systems, sprinkler systems, hydrants, hose reels, fire pumps, and suppression systems, with deficiencies made good on priority. Pt.W-11/12/1/MISC/2017-PMD I/3560482/2026

iii. Verification of validity of Fire Safety NOC issued by the concerned Fire Authority, and taking up renewal action well in advance wherever the NOC has expired or is nearing expiry. iv. Strict ban on the use of unauthorized electrical appliances, extension boards, multi-plugs, and temporary electrical arrangements in patient care areas, wards, ICUs, OTs, laboratories, hostels, and other occupied areas. v. Ensuring free access and availability of fire exits, staircases, refuge areas, fire doors, and evacuation routes, with removal of all encroachments and storage materials. vi. Readiness and availability of first-aid fire-fighting equipment, including portable fire extinguishers of suitable type, with validity checks, correct location, and basic training of staff in their use. vii. The above steps will be considered TOP MOST PRIORITY. Any negligence, delay, or non-compliance leading to risks of fire or life safety will invite strict administrative action under existing rules, without exception. The order is issued with the approval of the Competent Authority. Encl.:- A/a Your Faithfully

(Sanjay Jain) Chief Engineer ( I/c) Copy to:

1. PPS to DG – for information.
2. All Zonal Medical Commissioners – for information, coordination, and effective monitoring, including ESIS Hospitals.
3. All Zonal Insurance Commissioners (Hqrs. /All Zones)- for information, coordination, and effective monitoring.
4. All EE / AEE / AE / JEs posted in Regional Offices, Hospitals, and Medical Colleges-for information and strict compliance. They shall take immediate necessary action on Fire Safety compliances as per extant Headquarters instructions and submit consolidated action taken reports for all ESIC Hospitals/Colleges in the Region.
5. Website Content Manager, Headquarters Office – for uploading on the ESIC website.

Pt.W-11/12/1/MISC/2017-PMD I/3560482/2026

1. Chief Engineer ( I/c) Pt.W-11/12/1/MISC/2017-PMD I/3560482/2026

W-11/12/1/MISC/2023-PMD 24-12-2025 To,   All Addl. Commissioners / Regional Directors, Regional Offices     All Medical Superintendents, ESIC Hospitals / Model Hospitals / Super Specialty   Hospitals   All Deans, ESIC Medical / Dental / Paramedical Colleges   All Directors / Joint Directors (I/c) / Deputy Directors (I/c), Sub-Regional Offices   Directors (Medical), Delhi / Noida Subject: - Strict Compliance with Fire Safety Measures in all ESI Establishments. Reference: - (1) This office even Letter dated 15.10.2025 and 08.05.2025 (2) Previous instructions issued by ESIC Hqrs vide letter dated: 24.01.2025, 05.06.2024, 31.05.2024, 19.01.2024, 26.06.2023, 12.08.2021, 15.06.2021, 24.05.2021, 10.05.2021, 13.08.2019, 01.08.2019, 08.04.2019, 01.01.2019 and 28.12.2018 regarding Fire safety compliances. (3) Comprehensive Guidelines for adherence to compliances in respect of Fire Safety vide letter dated 29.02.2024 Sir/Madam,     This is a gentle reminder to refer to this office letters dated 15.10.2025 and 08.05.2025, along with earlier instructions and comprehensive guidelines issued from time to time regarding mandatory fire safety and electrical safety compliances in all ESI establishments.

In light of the recent tragic fire incident on 5th October 2025 at SMS Hospital, Jaipur, and recalling the unfortunate ESIC Hospital Andheri fire incident of 17th December 2018, all field units are requested to ensure that the directions already issued by Headquarters are being implemented.

As also conveyed earlier, it is essential to:

1. Identify and rectify any faults in electrical and fire safety systems immediately.
2. Renew all mandatory Fire Safety NOCs and certificates on priority.
3. Conduct periodic, documented inspections and mock drills for staff awareness and preparedness.
4. Ensure barrier free access to emergency exits and proper functioning of alarms, extinguishers, and evacuation routes.
5. Maintain all fire-fighting systems under valid AMC/CAMC for timely maintenance and repairs.
6. Ensure strict compliance with Fire safety measures, particularly addressing risks W-11/12/1/MISC/2023-PMD I/3407563/2025 6325086/2026/SEC-PMD-ESICHQ 1 File No. Pt.W-11/12/1/MISC/2017-PMD (Computer No. 328623) Generated from eOffice by Ajay Kumar Narware, AE(E)-PMD-AKN, ASSISTANT ENGINEER (ELECTRICAL), Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) on 04/02/2026 11:42 am

arising from electrical fault, short circuit system overloading. Immediate steps must be taken to conduct “Anti-Fire Drives” including awareness campaigns, inspections, and follow-up reviews in all ESI establishment. 7. It must be ensured that Fire Alarm and Fire-Fighting Equipment remain in optimal working condition under valid AMC/CMC contracts for timely maintenance. Any faults or deficiencies in the existing electrical or fire safety systems shall be rectified without delay. 8. Further, all units shall ensure that the Fire NOC is valid and up to date. In case of expiry, immediate revalidation must be initiated to maintain full regulatory compliance and safeguard lives and property. 9. All shortfall works related to fire safety, AMC /CMC of Fire fighting system installed shall be carried-out so as to ensure that all ESI buildings are made fully fire compliant.

It has been observed that the Action Taken Reports from several field units are still awaited. Therefore, All units are once again requested to submit the Action Taken Report, along with the compliance status, to ESIC Headquarters within 15 days, as per Annexure-A. Regional Offices are requested to compile reports from all ESIC-owned buildings, including State run hospitals, and forward the consolidated information to Headquarters.

Subsequently, the report should be submitted on a regular quarterly basis. Ensuring full fire safety compliance is essential to safeguard the lives of patients, staff, and visitors across all ESI establishments.

Encl.: - As above Your Faithfully,

Sanjay Jain Chief Engineer(I/c)

Copy to: - (1) PPS to DG- for information Please. (2) All Zonal Medical Commissioners - for information, coordination and proper monitoring including of ESIS Hospitals. (3) All Zonal Insurance Commissioners (Hqrs. /All Zones) for information, coordination and proper monitoring. (4) All EE/AEE/AE/JEs posted in Regional Offices/Hospitals/Medical Colleges for kind information with strict direction for taking immediate action in respect of Fire Safety Compliances as above as per extant instructions issued by HQ. and submit consolidated action taken report in respect of all ESIC/ESIC hospital & Colleges in the region. (5) Website Content Manager, Hqrs office for uploading on ESIC website.

Chief Engineer(I/c) W-11/12/1/MISC/2023-PMD I/3407563/2025 6325086/2026/SEC-PMD-ESICHQ 2 File No. Pt.W-11/12/1/MISC/2017-PMD (Computer No. 328623) Generated from eOffice by Ajay Kumar Narware, AE(E)-PMD-AKN, ASSISTANT ENGINEER (ELECTRICAL), Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) on 04/02/2026 11:42 am

F.No. Pt.W-11/12/1/MISC/2017-PMD Dated: 15-10-2025 To,   All Addl. Commissioner/Regional Directors, Regional Offices   All MS, ESIC Hospitals/ Model Hospitals/ Super Specialty Hospitals,   All Deans, ESIC Medical/Dental/Paramedical Colleges,   All Directors/Jt. Director I/c/ Deputy Director l/c, Sub-Regional Offices,   Directors (Medical) Delhi/Noida, Subject: Fire Safety in all ESI Establishments-reg. Reference: (1) This office even Letter dated 08.05.2025 and 24.01.2025 (2) Previous instructions issued by ESIC Hqrs vide letter dated: 05.06.2024, 31.05.2024, 19.01.2024, 26.06.2023, 12.08.2021, 15.06.2021, 24.05.2021, 10.05.2021, 13.08.2019, 01.08.2019, 08.04.2019, 01.01.2019 and 28.12.2018 regarding Fire safety compliances (3) Comprehensive Guidelines for adherence to compliances in respect of Fire Safety vide letter dated 29.02.2024 Sir/Madam,  It is reiterated that strict adherence to fire and electrical safety protocols in all ESIC establishments is of utmost importance, especially in light of the recent tragic fire incident that occurred on 5th October 2025 in the Trauma ICU of SMS Hospital, Jaipur, which resulted in the loss of at least eight lives. The preliminary findings indicate that an electrical short circuit was the likely cause, compounded by inadequate emergency response, lack of staff preparedness, and non-functional fire safety infrastructure. It may also be recalled that the unfortunate fire tragedy at ESIC Hospital, Andheri, on 17th December 2018, was another major setback, and ESIC continues to make concerted efforts to restore the facility to full functionality. In view of these incidents, all field units are directed to:

1. Ensure immediate identification and rectification of any faults in electrical and fire safety systems.
2. Renew all mandatory fire safety NOCs and certificates without delay.
3. Conduct periodic, documented inspections and mock drills for staff awareness and readiness.
4. Maintain clear access to emergency exits and ensure functionality of alarms, extinguishers, and evacuation routes.
5. Strict compliance is required to prevent recurrence of such tragedies and to safeguard the lives of patients, staff, and visitors.
6. All concerned authorities are directed to ensure strict compliance with Fire Safety Measures, particularly addressing risks arising from electrical faults, short circuits, and system overloading. Immediate steps must be taken to Pt.W-11/12/1/MISC/2017-PMD I/3147121/2025 6325047/2026/SEC-PMD-ESICHQ 1 File No. Pt.W-11/12/1/MISC/2017-PMD (Computer No. 328623) Generated from eOffice by Ajay Kumar Narware, AE(E)-PMD-AKN, ASSISTANT ENGINEER (ELECTRICAL), Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) on 03/02/2026 03:39 pm

conduct “Anti-Fire Drives”, including awareness campaigns, inspections, fire mock drills, and regular follow-up reviews in all ESI establishments. 7. It must be ensured that Fire Alarm and Fire-Fighting Equipment remain in optimal working condition under valid AMC/CMC contracts for timely maintenance. Any faults or deficiencies in the existing electrical or fire safety systems shall be rectified without delay in coordination with the Engineering staff. 8. Further, all units shall ensure that the Fire NOC is valid and up to date. In case of expiry, immediate revalidation must be initiated to maintain full regulatory compliance and safeguard lives and property. 9. All shortfall works related to fire safety, AMC /CMC of Fire fighting system shall be carried-out after due verification and obtaining technical sanction at the appropriate level by the concerned Engineers as per GFR/CVC/CPWD norms and direction issued by hqrs. time to time, so as to ensure that all ESI buildings are made fully fire compliant. 10. All field units are requested to report the action taken and compliance status to ESIC Headquarters within 15 days from the date of issuance of this letter, as per the attached Annexure-A. The status report (including of all State run hospitals) shall be compiled at the Regional Office (RO) level in respect of all ESIC-owned buildings and submitted to Headquarters accordingly, and thereafter be submitted on a quarterly basis in a regular manner.

These issues with the approval of the competent authority.

Encl.:- As above Yours Faithfully,

(S.S. Mandal) Lt. Col. Chief Engineer Copy to:- (1) PPS to DG- for information Please. (2) All Zonal Medical Commissioners - for information, coordination and proper monitoring including of ESIS Hospitals. (3) All Zonal Insurance Commissioners (Hqrs./All Zones) for information, coordination and proper monitoring. (4) All EE/AEE/AE/JEs posted in Regional Offices/Hospitals/Medical Colleges for kind information with strict direction for taking immediate action in respect of Fire Safety Compliances as above as per extant instructions issued by HQ. and submit consolidated action taken report in respect of all ESIC/ESIC hospital & Colleges in the region. (5) Sh. Rahul Yadv, AE, Hqrs office- For information and compilation of regional status reports on regular basis. (6) Website Content Manager, Hqrs office for uploading on ESIC website. Pt.W-11/12/1/MISC/2017-PMD I/3147121/2025 6325047/2026/SEC-PMD-ESICHQ 2 File No. Pt.W-11/12/1/MISC/2017-PMD (Computer No. 328623) Generated from eOffice by Ajay Kumar Narware, AE(E)-PMD-AKN, ASSISTANT ENGINEER (ELECTRICAL), Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) on 03/02/2026 03:39 pm