Sindh authorities have directed all privately managed schools to immediately implement comprehensive fire safety measures following a series of recent fire incidents.
The directive, issued by the Additional Director Registration on Aug 26, made it mandatory for private schools to adopt and strictly enforce fire safety protocols to protect students, teachers and staff.
Under the new instructions, schools must install fully functional fire alarms, smoke detectors and appropriate fire extinguishers on every floor and at other critical locations.
Emergency exits, staircases and escape routes must remain unlocked, clearly marked, adequately lit and free of obstructions to allow swift evacuation during emergencies.
Schools have also been instructed to ensure regular inspection and preventive maintenance of electrical wiring, switchboards, laboratories, kitchens, generator rooms and other high-risk areas by qualified professionals.
The directive requires schools to prominently display updated fire evacuation plans, floor maps and emergency instructions in classrooms, corridors, stairwells and other common areas.
Private schools must conduct fire evacuation drills at least twice during each academic year and maintain records of the exercises, including observations and corrective measures, for inspection.
Teaching and non-teaching staff have also been directed to undergo regular training in emergency response, evacuation procedures and basic first aid.
The authorities called for special arrangements to facilitate the safe evacuation of students with disabilities, preschool children and other vulnerable groups. Each school must also designate a clearly marked assembly point outside the premises and conduct an immediate headcount following an evacuation.
The directive prohibits anyone from re-entering school premises during an emergency until clearance is issued by the relevant emergency or regulatory authorities.
Schools have further been ordered to comply with all applicable fire safety laws and building regulations and maintain valid safety certificates and inspection records for verification.
The department directed officials to ensure implementation of the measures “in letter and spirit”, warning that non-compliance would be taken seriously and could result in action against the concerned school.
