Opinion: Ignite self compliance to ward off fire accidents, writes R Natraj

Adherence to building norms is non-negotiable, since any violation can have a cascading effect on people and property. Due to inclement weather, or during times of a fire, any emergency response activity, meant for the common man, should not be hampered simply because someone has been thoughtless enough to put up a structure that hinders smooth access. 

The National Building Code, 2005 is very clear on various rules governing various aspects. From 1970, when the first version of the Code was published, based on an exhaustive study by the Guiding Committee and panel of experts, the Code has been periodically updated, keeping pace with developments and changes in building and construction activities, technology, environmental laws etc. 

The National Building Code has clearly defined the safety parameters for multi-storeyed residential apartment buildings, hospitals, cinema halls, shopping malls, commercial establishments and industrial complexes. On completion of such buildings, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) is issued by relevant authorities, after due diligence. 

However, what happens in most cases is that, after getting the NOC, some developers and owners keep adding make shift structures to the original, approved design, in defiance of existing rules and regulations. For example, the open area around a building, within the compound wall is often disposed off as ‘open car park’. The vehicles parked in such make-shift arrangements end up blocking crucial access for fire engines during emergencies. 

A lot of corners are also cut in installing electrical equipment. While officials recommend triple casing of electrical wires, which is three times more expensive than ordinary casing, most builders opt the latter, as a way of cutting cost. Even when stringent inspection norms are applied by the  certifying authority, there are many who overload the allotted capacity. Electrical short circuits happen only because of overload or inferior casings. 

Even in hospitals—the last frontier in saving lives— the NBC is not followed vigilantly. It is mandatory for corridors to be kept free, but that is rarely the case. It is also stipulated in rules that hospitals have to provide for special ‘pathways’ on each floor to transport or evacuate ICU patients in an emergency. A ramp is also mandatory, as well as fire exits, with fully functional fire extinguishers placed at recommended distance. How far all hospitals are able to follow these norms 365 days, 24x7, is a big question.

A fire safety drill, at least once a year, is also mandatory, but how many do it is not known. The Fire Services department has no power to take action on violators. It can only make a report to whoever is the licensing authority for the particular type of building. The Fire Services department usually undertakes a safety audit regularly. But, why should someone else conduct an audit? What we need is self compliance. Everyone should come forward and make a voluntary  disclosure that the NBC will be followed strictly.