In an important update for healthcare organizations in Delhi, the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH) has issued revised guidelines regarding the applicability of Fire Safety Compliance Certificates (FSC). This notification, released on March 11, 2025, provides clarity on fire safety regulations, ensuring that healthcare providers adhere to the National Building Code (NBC) 2016 standards.
The guidelines are aimed at safeguarding the safety of patients, staff, and visitors by aligning fire safety protocols with the latest regulatory standards.
Key Highlights of the Fire Safety Compliance Guidelines:
Day Care Establishments: Day care facilities such as eye centers, dental clinics, OPDs, diagnostic labs, and dialysis centers are categorized as Business Occupancy, provided they do not offer overnight patient accommodations. These establishments can operate in buildings with a single basement (below 200 SQM) and up to three stories (under 15 meters in height), but the basement’s use must be approved by local building authorities like MCD or NDMC.
Exemptions for Smaller Business Buildings: Business buildings under 15 meters in height (ground plus three stories) are exempt from the requirement of a Fire NOC/FSC. This provides some relief to smaller businesses that do not exceed this height limit.
Fire Safety for Taller Business Buildings: Any business building over 15 meters in height (more than three stories) is required to obtain a Fire NOC/FSC, ensuring that appropriate fire safety measures are in place.
Nursing Homes and Hospitals:
- Nursing Homes/Hospitals Below 9 Meters: Facilities below 9 meters in height or with ground plus one floor (including mezzanine) do not need a Fire Safety Certificate, as long as the basement area is under 200 SQM.
- Nursing Homes/Hospitals Between 9 to 15 Meters: Hospitals with a height between 9 and 15 meters or with specific floor usage arrangements (where upper floors are used for residential purposes or not utilized for hospital operations) are also exempt from Fire NOC/FSC requirements.
Basement Regulations in Healthcare Facilities:
- Basements in Nursing Homes/Hospitals: These spaces cannot be used for inpatient care or operating theatres. Double basement buildings require a fire safety certificate, as per UBBL 2016.
- For basements larger than 200 SQM, fire safety measures as per NBC Part IV must be implemented.
Home Care and Palliative Care Centres: Home care and palliative care centers are now categorized similarly to nursing homes, meaning they must follow Institutional building regulations, including those related to fire safety.
Third-Party Fire Safety Audits: NABH has emphasized that third-party fire safety audits should comply with the guidelines outlined in the National Building Code (NBC)-Part IV, 2016. This ensures independent verification of fire safety compliance.
Documentation for Healthcare Organizations: When a Fire NOC is not required, healthcare establishments must submit several documents, including:
- Third-Party Fire Safety Audit Reports: These reports should comply with the NBC guidelines.
- Geo-tagged, time-stamped photographs: These photos must be included to verify the facility’s location and condition.
- Affidavit on Building Height and Fire Safety Compliance: An affidavit confirming the building height and ongoing adherence to fire safety norms is required.
- Basement Approval for Day Care Establishments: Day care centers must submit proof of approval for basement usage from local authorities.
Verification of Fire NOCs: Healthcare facilities are encouraged to verify the authenticity of Fire NOCs issued by the Fire Department by checking the Fire Authority’s official website.
Conclusion:
NABH has made it clear that all healthcare organizations must comply with these updated fire safety guidelines to ensure the well-being of everyone in the facility. These regulations emphasize the importance of prioritizing fire safety and aligning with national building and safety standards. By following these guidelines, healthcare providers will not only meet accreditation requirements but also enhance the safety and security of their premises.
