Amjad Mehmood
Islamabad: Capital Hospital, Islamabad, conducted a comprehensive Fire and Life Safety Demonstration and Emergency Mock Drill to strengthen its preparedness and response mechanisms for fire-related emergencies and ensure the safety of patients, particularly those requiring critical care. The exercise was conducted in pursuance of the directions of Lt. (Retd.) Sohail Ashraf, Chairman, Capital Development Authority (CDA), under the supervision of Mr. Esfandyar Baloch, Member (Administration), CDA. The activity was led by Dr. Muhammad Naeem Taj, Executive Director, Capital Hospital, in collaboration with Capital Emergency Services.
The exercise focused on strengthening the hospital’s Command and Control System and enhancing coordination among dedicated Response, Triage, Communication, Evacuation, Security and Clinical Support Teams. Hospital staff were practically trained in their respective roles and responsibilities and in coordinated response procedures during a fire emergency. Officials from Capital Emergency Services also conducted hands-on training for hospital personnel in the use of fire extinguishers, fire blankets and other firefighting and safety equipment, followed by practical demonstrations and participation by hospital staff.
As part of the exercise, a real-time emergency mock drill was conducted in critical areas, including the Operation Theatre (OT), Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Psychiatry Ward. Different emergency scenarios were simulated to assess the hospital’s ability to respond rapidly and safely, particularly in evacuating ventilator-dependent, general and NICU patients. The drill tested key components of emergency response, including rapid communication, triage, coordinated decision-making, patient evacuation and interdepartmental coordination under realistic emergency conditions. Particular emphasis was placed on ensuring that critically ill and vulnerable patients could be evacuated safely and efficiently.
The exercise reaffirmed Capital Hospital’s commitment to Fire and Life Safety, emergency preparedness, staff capacity-building and patient safety, while providing an opportunity to assess existing emergency protocols and further strengthen institutional response capabilities.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Muhammad Naeem Taj, Executive Director, Capital Hospital, highlighted the different tiers of the hospital’s Fire and Life Safety Program and underscored the importance of conducting regular mock drills to enhance preparedness and minimize the risk of major fire-related incidents. He appreciated the efforts of the Capital Fire Safety Department and expressed gratitude to the Chairman CDA and Member (Administration), CDA, for their continued support and cooperation. He also commended the Capital Hospital team for its active participation, professionalism and dedication during the exercise. Dr. Sartaj Ali, Director Administration, and Dr. Mobeen Kausar, Deputy Director (Medical-1), Capital Hospital, prepared the protocols for the disaster management training. Mr. Iqbal and Mr. Tahir of Capital Emergency Rescue delivered a detailed session on the hospital’s fire safety profile and emergency response measures.
The exercise was conducted under the overall guidance of Lt. (Retd.) Sohail Ashraf, Chairman CDA, and Mr. Esfandyar Baloch, Member (Administration), CDA, whose continued support and institutional oversight contributed significantly to the successful conduct of the activity.
