Assessment of Fire Safety Knowledge, Perception, and

Practices Among Healthcare Workers in Srinagar City, India

Ashiq Hussain Rather1, Javeed A Rather1, Shahid Saleem1 and Anil Kumar Gupta2

Abstract
Fire safety knowledge, perception, and practices among healthcare workers are
fundamental for ensuring the safety of patients, staff, and infrastructure within hospital
settings, especially in areas like Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, which are susceptible to
natural calamities. Notably, Srinagar has experienced a high incidence of fire events
in recent years, resulting in significant loss of life and property damage. This research
emphasizes the necessity of evaluating fire safety awareness and preparedness among
healthcare professionals. The methods employed in this research encompassed a cross-
sectional survey design, utilizing structured questionnaires to assess fire safety knowledge,
attitudes, and behaviour among healthcare workers. The results of the study revealed
significant gaps in fire safety knowledge and preparedness among healthcare workers in
Srinagar. Despite a positive perception of the importance of fire safety, there was a notable
lack of awareness regarding fire prevention strategies, emergency response protocols, and
proper utilization of firefighting equipment. Implications of these findings underscore the
urgent need for targeted interventions aimed at improving fire safety training programs
and raising awareness among healthcare workers in Srinagar City. Enhanced education
and training initiatives should focus on fostering a culture of safety, enhancing emergency
response capabilities, and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration to mitigate fire
hazards effectively within hospital settings. Future research should include longitudinal
studies to evaluate the impact of training interventions, qualitative research to identify
factors affecting fire safety practices, and the creation of specific guidelines and protocols
that address the distinct challenges of hospitals in Srinagar and similar environments.

1
Department of Geography and Disaster Management, School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of
Kashmir, Srinagar, 190006
2
Environment & DRM Division, International Cooperation, National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM), New
Delhi, 110042

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 Assessment of Fire Safety Knowledge, Perception, and Practices Among Healthcare Workers in Srinagar City, India

This study contributes to improving fire safety practices in healthcare facilities, ensuring
the safety of patients, staff, and infrastructure in Srinagar and comparable regions.

Keywords: Fire safety, Healthcare workers, Perception, Practices, Emergency preparedness,

Srinagar City

1. Introduction
Fire is a chemical reaction involving rapid oxidation, producing heat, light, and flames
at the ignition point. It is classified into five types based on fuel. Class A includes
combustible solids, Class B includes flammable liquids, Class C includes flammable
gasses, Class D includes combustible metals and Class K includes cooking oils. A fire
hazard in buildings refers to the potential risk of accidental or intentional fires that
pose a threat to life, structural integrity, and property safety. As global development
accelerates, fire hazards in buildings have evolved significantly in both severity and
complexity, becoming an increasing concern in recent years. Between 1993 and 2015,
there were 86.4 million recorded fire incidents, resulting in over one million fatalities
(Brushlinsky et al., 2017). Fire safety refers to a set of practices aimed at preventing or
minimizing the occurrence of fires and controlling their spread and impact, with the
goal of keeping potential losses within acceptable limits. In modern buildings, fire safety
measures are implemented by adhering to the guidelines outlined in building codes
of practice (Kodur 2014; Martin et al., 2016). Fire can make homes unsafe. Homes can
become dangerous after a fire. It may result in property destruction, house collapses, or
even fatalities (Supermedia, 2011). The study by Chandrakantan Subramanian (2004)
titled “Human Factors Influencing Fire Safety Measures” focuses on the human factors
affecting fire safety in India. Ramachandran (1999) analyzed the impact of fires, noting
they cause fatalities, injuries, and material damage to buildings, along with indirect
losses like reduced production and unemployment. G.B. Menon, in his handbook on
building fire codes, emphasized the need for updated fire protection measures due
to technological advancements and increased fire hazards. Studies, including one by
Ramesh Holla et al. (2016) in Karnataka, India, and another by Khademian et al. (2019)
in Iran, found healthcare workers had adequate general knowledge of fire safety but
lacked specific knowledge about fire extinguishers and hazard response.

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The NCRB Report 2022 states that there were 7,566 fire accident instances reported
in India during year 2022, resulting in 7,435 fatalities and 329 injuries. The location-wise
analysis of fire incidents showed that in the year 2022, residential/dwelling buildings
accounted for 53.5% of all reported fatalities (3,979 out of 7,435). Approximately 25,000
people in India lose their lives to fires and associated incidents/causes each year.
India has seen a number of significant fires, according to India Risk Surveys 2022,
which is why the country's fire risk was placed third in the year 2012 and fifth in the
year 2013. Subsequently, it fell to the lowest position in the year 2014. It grew gradually
until 2018, when it once more secured the third position. It fell to tenth place once
more in 2019. However, in 2021, it surged to the fourth position once more. A fire
outbreak puts operations and business continuity at risk. India ranks third in the
world for fire occurrences, with the majority of them occurring in the country's
northern and western regions. Most of the fire seen in the hospital areas is due to
the gaseous and chemical substances. Thus, fire safety precautions and measures
are essential for preventing fires or other worsening complications of existing fires. A
crucial element and prerequisite of constructing infrastructure planning is fire safety.
Even in hospitalized areas, the provision of fire safety measures like as emergency
exits, various kinds of fire extinguishers, safe assembly areas, and fire hydrant systems
is required. In Japan, General Provisions, Building Codes, and Zoning Codes make up
the Building Standard Law (BSL), which also include fire safety standards. The BSL was
established in 1950 and has had multiple amendments since then. The most recent
fire safety reform placed a strong emphasis on the adoption of globally recognized fire
test procedures as well as the potential for performance-based fire rules. The year June
2000 saw the implementation of the Enforcement Order and Notifications outlining the
specifics of the new fire classification system. The cone calorimeter test ISO 5660-1 is the
primary test technique used in the new Japanese fire classification system. It is applicable
to all classes of materials referred to as fire preventative products. Providing adequate
fire protection for property and ensuring life safety are the main objectives of fire safety
regulations. To achieve this objective, requirements for structures, building materials,
evacuation arrangements, and relative location of buildings are set to define how
building should be designed and constructed for their respective use. The requirement
is related to prevention of ignition and fire spread, limitation of fire growth, evacuation
provision, load-bearing capacity of structures, and prevention of spread of fire between

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buildings. Most fires can be prevented by a few simple precautions and maintenance of
fire safety measures. These measures can be incorporated in to buildings either during
construction or renovation works. In addition, well trained staff with their knowledge,
perception and appropriate attitude can play an equally important role in preventing
and tackling fires.

The World Bank and US Geological Survey estimated that economic losses
worldwide from natural hazards in the 1990s could be reduced by $280 billion if
$40 billion were invested in preparedness, mitigation and prevention strategies (Dilley
and Heyman, 1995). Understanding the knowledge, perception, and practices of
healthcare workers regarding fire safety is crucial for effective risk management and the
prevention of fire-related incidents, Rather et.al (2019), Perception of fire safety among
healthcare workers also plays a significant role in shaping preparedness and response
efforts. A study by Nguyen et al. (2017) in Vietnam revealed that while healthcare
workers perceived fire safety as important, there was a lack of confidence in their
ability to effectively respond to fire emergencies. This discrepancy between perceived
importance and perceived competency underscores the need for targeted training and
education programmes to bridge the gap between awareness and action. In terms of
practices, studies have shown varying levels of adherence to fire safety protocols among
healthcare workers. A study by Gershon et al. (2019) in the United States found that
while the majority of healthcare workers reported receiving fire safety training, there
were inconsistencies in the application of safety practices, particularly during high-
stress situations such as emergencies. Similarly, research by Al Thobaity and Plummer
(2016) in Saudi Arabia identified deficiencies in fire safety practices among healthcare
workers, including inadequate fire drills and evacuation procedures.

In the context of Srinagar City, Jammu & Kashmir, there is a paucity of research
specifically addressing fire safety knowledge, perception, and practices among
healthcare workers. Given the unique socio-economic and environmental factors
present in the region, such as and extreme weather conditions, understanding the
preparedness of healthcare facilities for fire-related emergencies is essential for
safeguarding both personnel and patients.

This study aims to fill the gap by accessing perception, and practices among
healthcare workers regarding Fire hazards gap by assessing the fire safety knowledge,

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perception, and practices among healthcare workers in selected hospitals of Srinagar

City. By identifying areas of strength and weakness, the findings of this research can
inform targeted interventions and policy recommendations to enhance fire safety
preparedness within the healthcare sector, thereby reducing the risk of fire-related
incidents and minimizing their impact on public health and safety.

2. Method and Materials

2.1 Need of the Study
Several hospital fires in India have exposed critical gaps in fire safety. The 2011 AMRI
Hospital fire in Kolkata killed over 90 people due to inadequate safety protocols
(Chatterjee, 2011), and a 2021 fire at Vijay Vallabh Hospital, Maharashtra, claimed 13
lives (PTI, 2021). In the study area, a 2018 fire at Jammu's Government Medical College
Hospital and a 2022 fire at a Baramulla district hospital led to evacuations but no
casualties (Mir, 2018). In Srinagar, a fire at SMHS Hospital in 2019 caused significant
damage, emphasizing the need for better fire safety in hospitals (Raina, 2019).
These incidents underscore the importance of improving fire safety knowledge and
preparedness in healthcare settings (Holla et al., 2016; Khademian et al., 2019). Based
on official data from the Directorate of Fire and Emergency Services, J&K, there were
448 fire occurrences in the summer capital (Srinagar), which is more than any other
district of the Kashmir Division of the UT of J&K, in which five individuals died and
12 persons were injured as a result of the fire, which is the second-highest number
of casualties across the district in Kashmir Division. Property in Srinagar valued at
Rs. 26.32 crore was also damaged in these fire incidents. Several cases of fire incidences
have been witnessed in various hospitals of Srinagar City. On 04.03.2022 at 21.25 hours
fire had broken out in the only State Level Orthopedic 250 beded Hospital under the
name of Bone & Joints Hospital Burzulla, Srinagar. The U-shaped IPD Block sprawled
over an area of more than 300 sq. meters in which 113 orthopedic patients were
admitted in the hospital at the time of the incident. Some patients were operated
upon three hours before and these patients were not in a position to move. The second
floor of the hospital comprising of Operation Theatre and In-patient Wards was fully
involved in fire. Besides pressing into dozens of Fire Tenders and imported portable fire
pumps, Hydraulic Platform (Bronto Sky Lift) played a vital role in aerial extinguishing
the fire from the rooftop of the hospital which made rescue operation possible. The

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rescue team was able to launch the rescue operation and the prompt and effective
firefighting and rescue operation simultaneously resulted in saving the life of hundreds
of trapped patients without any harm or injury to them during the rescue operation.
In another incident, the fire broke out in the 1st floor of Ward 16 store room of the
SMHS Hospital, Srinagar, however, no injuries were reported, patients and attendants
including the hospital staff were rescued to safer places.

This study was conducted in response to concerns over fire safety and readiness
that were raised by many, widespread fire incidents that were reported in different
hospitals throughout the city of Srinagar. Thus, the goal of this study was to find
out how healthcare staff in the various buildings perceived, knew about, and were
prepared for fire risks. The study's conclusions and recommendations can help the
City Administration of Srinagar, hospital administrators and owners and occupiers by
providing them with knowledge that will help them redefine and improve fire safety
on their properties and raise public awareness. The scope of the study was reduced to
include just hospitals and healthcare facilities.

2.2 Objectives of the Study

i. To assess the fire Safety knowledge among Health Care Workers in Srinagar city.

ii. To assess the levels of perception of satisfaction of health care workers on fire
preparedness and mitigation measures in Hospitals of Srinagar city.

2.3 Data Base and Methodology

The Study Area
Spread across 294 square kilometers, Srinagar City is situated at an elevation of 1585
meters located between 34o5/ N and 74o 47/ E. Srinagar City is situated on both
banks of the Jhelum River, also known as Vyath in Kashmir. The river flows past the
city and into the valley, where it meanders before deepening into Dal Lake. Srinagar
has a humid subtropical climate (Saleem, S. et al.,2021; Mushtaq, S. et al.,2024; Saleem,
H. et al.,2024), much cooler than what is found in much of the rest of India, due to
its moderately high elevation and northerly position. Srinagar city has a population
of 1273312 as per census January 2011. The population density of Srinagar city is

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8523/Km2. The sex ratio is 888/1000. According to the January 2011 census, Srinagar
city has a literacy rate of 71.45%, while the national average has 74.04%. Approximately
12% of the entire population lives in the city and the metropolitan agglomeration as
children. The population is made up of 47% females and 53% males.

Figure 1: Location Map of Srinagar City

Both primary and secondary sources of data were used in the present study.
The Census of India manual, Jammu and Kashmir Series, the Directorate of Fire and
Emergency Services, J&K, Srinagar, journals, books, etc. are the sources of the secondary
data. The information has been compiled and analyzed using various statistical
methods. The study's target population for primary data consisted of medical staff
from a few chosen hospitals in Srinagar City. Due to the limited time and financial
resources available for the study, a sample size of 160 respondents was chosen as a
representative of all healthcare personnel working in Srinagar City hospitals who were
accessible at the time of study.

Two data collection instruments consisting of two kinds of questionnaires

(including both closed and open-ended questions) and an observation schedule were
constructed in order to investigate the objectives, hypotheses, and relevant literature.
The questionnaires served as a schedule for the interviews as well. Conducting an
interview facilitated additional questioning to get additional details. The questionnaire
was chosen as the primary data collection tool because it saved time and made it

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possible to get information from a wider range of people. Important research

components that were actually visible were documented using the observation
schedule. These included the fire safety precautions that the buildings had in place,
such as the availability of escape routes, fire assembly locations, the presence of
detecting equipment, and other firefighting supplies. To guarantee a high return rate,
the researcher physically administered each instrument, which asked for specific
information from the respondents.

Data Analysis Techniques

To ensure correctness, consistency, and completeness, the compiled data was modified.
After then, Microsoft Excel was used to cross-tabulate the data so that statistical analysis
of the responses was possible. The compiled Data was analyzed using descriptive
statistics and displayed using charts and graphs, as well as percentages and means.
Tables, percentages, charts, and graphs were used to analyze the objectives based on
the questionnaire replies. The responders were asked to check the appropriate response
or responses out of the available options given. Additionally, space was also given for
the respondent to express any opinions they may have regarding the suitability of
the response selections. The majority of respondents' recommendations were tallied
against the frequency and percentages. Microsoft Excel was used for data analysis.

Figure 2 : Methodological Flow Chart

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3. Results and Discussions

Fire Risk Profile: Srinagar City; Fire risk profiles are essential tools for understanding
the vulnerabilities and potential hazards within a specific geographic area. In the
case of Srinagar City, several factors contribute to its unique fire risk profile. Overall,
Srinagar City's fire risk profile is characterized by a combination of urban density,
environmental factors, socio-political dynamics, and cultural practices. Understanding
these factors is crucial for developing effective fire prevention and mitigation
strategies to protect lives, property, and infrastructure in the city. The Directorate of
Fire and Emergency Services, J&K, reports that from 2016 to 2021, there were 2288
fire incidents in the summer capital (Srinagar), which is more than any other district
in the Kashmir division. During that time, 1568 structures were involved in fires.
The total property (in crores) involved in fire for the said period was 1693.91 crores, out of
which 79.94 crores were damged and 1613.97 crores were saved. According to sources and
data on fire incidents, the fire resulted in 29 fatalities, the highest number of casualties
across the district Srinagar in Kashmiri division. 43 other persons were injured in fire
incidents throughout Srinagar, according to the data. It is now become necessary to
implement comprehensive fire hazard planning for mitigation and preparedness
measures in order to reduce the fire hazard risks associated with the study area,
particularly in the down town area of Srinagar City, as a result of the alarming fire
incidents in the city, as revealed by the fire statistical data.

Table 1 : Fire Statistical Data from the Year 2016-2021 of Srinagar City

Year No. of Fire Structures Property Property Property

Calls involved Involved Damaged Saved
in fire
2016 485.00 344 476.56 23.03 444.53
2017 469.00 324 340.07 21.455 314.11
2018 488.00 326 203.57 19.88 183.69
2019 389.00 279 173.27 10.55 162.72
2020 478.00 265 2.13 0.16 1.97
2021 448.00 354 838.38 26.32 812.06
Source: Directorate F&ES, J&K, Srinagar

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Figure 3 and 4 : Show Fire call, structures involved property values affected and
saved in crores from 2016 to 2021

3.1 Distribution of Respondents by Socio-economic Characteristics

Understanding the demographic profile of the respondents facilitated identification of
the age cohorts active within the hospital premises and their awareness levels regarding
fire safety. Participants were requested to specify their socio-economic characteristics.

Table 2 : Distribution of Respondents by Socio-economic Characteristics

S. No Demographic variables Frequency %

1 Age in years i. Below 30 (18-30) 51 31.87
ii. 30 to 40 45 28.12
iii. 41 to 50 39 24.38
iv. Above 50 25 15.63
2 Gender i. Male 88 55
ii. Female 72 45
3 Profession i. Nurse 61 38.12
ii. Doctor 49 30.63
iii. Class IV workers 27 16.88
iv. Others 23 14.37

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4 Work experience i. 1 to 10 years 97 60.62

ii. 11 to 20 years 43 26.88

iii. Above 20 years 20 12.50

5 Educational i. Illiterate 0 0
qualifications
ii. SSC 23 14.37

iii. HSC 19 11.88

iv. Graduate 84 52.50

v. Post Graduate 34 21.25

6 Fire safety i. Yes 120 75

training attended
ii. No 40 25

Table 2 provides the frequency and percentage distributions of demographic

variables among healthcare workers. The largest proportion of the sample, comprising
51 individuals (31.87%), fell within the age range of below 30 years (18-30). Additionally,
the majority of the sample, accounting for 88 individuals (55%), were male. Furthermore,
61 individuals (38.12%) reported nursing as their profession, while 97 individuals
(60.62%) indicated having work experience ranging from 1 to 10 years. Moreover, a
significant majority of the sample, totaling 120 individuals (75%), had participated in
fire safety training. Lastly, 84 individuals (52.50%) possessed a graduate-level
educational qualification.

3.2 Fire Safety Measures, its Availability and Knowledge

The respondents were asked to identify the firefighting equipment that is available in
the buildings where they work. Out of the 160 respondents surveyed, 101 said that dry
chemical extinguishers were present in the buildings where they worked, whereas 46
respondents said they were not.

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Table 3 : Fire Safety Measures and Responses

Fire Equipment Exists Do Not Exist Not sure Total

Dry chemical extinguishers 101 46 13 160

Halon extinguishers 10 135 15 160
(vaporising liquids)
Foam cylinders 11 135 14 160
Carbon dioxide extinguishers 95 55 10 160
Sprinklers/Hose reels 50 103 07 160
(pressurised water
extinguishers)
Wet chemical 03 146 11 160
Fire blankets 09 144 07 160
Any other (specify) 0 160 0 160
Source: Field Survey, 2022

Figure 5 : Illustrate Fire Safety Measures and Responses

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According to the responses gathered from the study, it was revealed that there are
notable disparities in the reported presence of various types of firefighting equipment
within buildings. Among the surveyed respondents, a substantial proportion, consisting
of 135 individuals, asserted the absence of halogen extinguishers in buildings. Conversely,
merely 10 respondents confirmed the existence of such extinguishers, indicating a stark
contrast in perceptions regarding their prevalence. Likewise, research revealed that
135 respondents claimed that foam cylinders were not present in structures.
Moreover, ninety-five respondents claimed that most buildings had carbon dioxide
extinguishers. Wet chemical extinguishers and fire blankets, on the other hand, were said
to be absent from most buildings as stated by 146 and 144 respondents, respectively).
Remarkably, only a negligible number of respondents, specifically 3 and 9 individuals,
respectively, confirmed the presence of wet chemical extinguishers and fire blankets.

Additionally, when queried about the existence of any other fire equipment in
their respective buildings, none of the respondents indicated its presence, with 160
individuals confirming the absence of any additional fire equipment. Conversely, a
noteworthy proportion of respondents, comprising 103 individuals, supported the
existence of sprinklers or hose reels within their buildings. The study findings suggest
that only two types of firefighting equipment, namely dry chemical extinguishers and
carbon dioxide cylinders, were commonly reported as present in the surveyed buildings.

3.3 Perception of Availability of Fire Equipment

The study sought to gauge the perceptions of respondents regarding the availability
of firefighting equipment within their respective environments. Among the 160
participants included in the analysis, a notable majority of 55 individuals, constituting
65.62% of the sample, expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of fire equipment
availability. Conversely, 55 respondents, comprising 34.38% of the sample, conveyed
satisfaction with the existing firefighting resources. These findings suggest a prevalent
sentiment of dissatisfaction among the surveyed individuals regarding the accessibility
and adequacy of fire equipment. The observed high level of dissatisfaction underscores
potential concerns regarding the effectiveness of current fire safety measures and the
perceived preparedness for fire incidents within the surveyed environments.

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Table 4 : Perceptions on Availability of Fire Equipment

Perception Satisfied Not satisfied Total
Respondents 55 105 160
Percentage 34.38 65.62 100

3.4 Proficiency to Operate Fire Equipment

The responders were questioned about their proficiency to use any of the firefighting
apparatus that was currently in use. Table 5 shows the respondents' proficiency
levels and possible training needs in using the firefighting equipment already in use.
Figure 6 presents a comprehensive breakdown of respondents' responses to the inquiry,
revealing in their capabilities across various types of firefighting apparatus. It becomes
apparent that a considerable proportion of respondents expressed difficulty in
operating specific types of firefighting equipment. Notably, 127 respondents indicated
their inability to operate dry chemical extinguishers, while an even larger cohort of
152 individuals reported similar challenges with halon extinguishers. Conversely, a
modest number of respondents, 30 and 38, respectively, demonstrated proficiency in
operating dry chemical and carbon dioxide extinguishers.

Table 5 : Proficiency to Operate Fire Equipment

Fire Equipment Able to Not able to Not Total
operate/use operate sure
Dry chemical extinguishers 30 127 3 160
Halon extinguishers 5 152 3 160
(vaporising liquids)
Foam cylinders 7 151 2 160
Carbon dioxide extinguishers 38 120 2 160
Sprinklers/ Hose reels 0 146 2 160
(pressurized water extinguishers)
Wet chemical 0 146 2 160
Fire blankets 0 147 1 160
Any other (specify) 0 0 0 0

Field Survey, 2022

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Figure 6 : Shows the Proficiency of Respondents to Operate Fire Equipment

Furthermore, the analysis unveils substantial impediments in respondents'

aptitude to handle foam cylinders, sprinklers/hose reels, wet chemicals, and fire
blankets. Specifically, 151, 146, and 146 respondents conveyed their inability to operate
foam cylinders, sprinklers/hose reels, and wet chemicals, with a marginal number of
respondents expressing uncertainty regarding their handling. Similarly, a significant
majority of 147 respondents expressed their incapacity to utilize fire blankets effectively,
with a lone respondent indicating uncertainty in this regard. Interestingly, the
absence of any specified proficiency in operating additional fire equipment highlights
potential gaps in respondents' training or familiarity with broader firefighting
apparatus beyond those explicitly queried. This observation underscores the need
for comprehensive training programs to equip healthcare professionals with the
requisite skills to navigate diverse fire safety scenarios effectively. The findings
suggest that while a subset of respondents demonstrates proficiency in operating
available firefighting equipment, their capabilities are predominantly limited to
apparatus that are currently accessible. Moreover, the distribution of proficiency
across different types of equipment appears varied.

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3.5 Perception of the Proficiency to Operate Fire Equipment

Table 6 : Perceptions on the Proficiency to Operate Fire Equipment

Perception Satisfied Not satisfied Total

Respondents 32 128 160
Percentage 20 80 100

The respondents when questioned about their proficiency using the firefighting
apparatus at workplace, the responders answered in the affirmative. The responses
to the question are displayed in Table 6 above. When asked how satisfied they were or
not with their competence to operate fire equipment, 32 (20%) respondents said they
were, while 128 (80%) said they were not. The study's findings indicate that the majority
of these medical professionals lack the knowledge or skills necessary to operate the
firefighting equipment that was p1ut in place in the buildings in which they worked.

3.6 Preparedness to Fire Disasters

The respondents were questioned about their knowledge of the fire preparedness
measures that were in place at their place of employment. The answers to the query
are displayed in Table 7. The study revealed noteworthy insights into respondents'
awareness and preparedness regarding fire safety protocols within their respective
environments. The findings shed light on the presence of emergency communication
systems, maintenance practices for fire equipment, training in fire emergency
services, and the existence of fire assembly points. A substantial majority of
respondents, totaling 148 individuals, demonstrated awareness of the existence of an
emergency communication system in the event of a fire incident. Further exploration
elucidated that these systems encompassed fire alarm mechanisms that enabled
individuals to swiftly alert firefighting personnel, complemented by access to an
emergency contact number, notably 101. Conversely, findings concerning the regular
inspection and maintenance of fire equipment unveiled a concerning trend, with
a significant majority of 125 respondents indicating a lack of awareness regarding
such practices.

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Table 7 : Preparedness to Fire Disasters

Preparedness Yes No Not Total

Sure
Being aware of an emergency communication 148 0 12 160
system (alarm, phone, cell number, etc.)
in the event of a fire
Frequent regular inspection and maintenance 20 125 15 160
of firefighting equipment
Training on emergency services in case of 40 107 13 160
fire outbreak
The structure has an emergency shelter or fire 110 36 14 160
assembly point in case of a fire
The structure is equipped with an emergency 100 47 13 160
fire disaster kit.
Fire hydrants’ efficiency and accessibility 12 135 13 160
during fire outbreaks.
Existence of Emergency population 48 106 6 160
warning methods in the building.
Conducting of Regular fire drills 10 146 4 160

Other preparedness strategies 0 - - 0

Field Survey, 2022

Merely 20 respondents reported awareness of regular inspection and maintenance

procedures, while a meagre 15 respondents expressed uncertainty regarding the
implementation of these protocols. Regarding training in fire emergency services,
the study revealed a notable gap, with a majority of 107 respondents asserting a lack
of training in this domain. Conversely, only 13 respondents indicated uncertainty
regarding their training status, highlighting potential deficiencies in fire safety
education and preparedness initiatives among the surveyed cohort. In terms of
infrastructure, responses regarding the existence of fire assembly points varied. While a
substantial number of buildings were reported to have designated fire assembly points,

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with 110 respondents affirming their presence, a notable proportion of 36 respondents

indicated the absence of such facilities within their buildings. Additionally,
14 respondents remained indifferent to the presence or absence of fire assembly
points, suggesting potential inconsistencies in fire safety infrastructure across surveyed
environments. In addition, when asked if their building had an emergency fire
disaster kit, the majority of respondents (100) said that it did. Of the total responders,
47 admitted that it didn't exist. 13 respondents were indifferent. When asked how
easy it is to reach fire hydrants in the event of a fire, the majority of respondents
(135) believed that they are difficult to reach, ineffective, and typically remain non-
functional. Just twelve people said it was easily accessible to get there. Thirteen
respondents had no opinion. Subsequent investigation revealed that the fire
hydrants, which are primarily run by the local authorities, were ineffectual in past fire
breakouts in and around the study areas because they were empty at the time.

When asked whether emergency population warning systems were in place at their
work places, 48 respondents said they were, while 106 said they weren't. There were
only six who had no opinion. Casual observation showed that the most typical
population warning sign was “No Smoking” sign and was in written on the walls.
Additionally, the respondents were questioned about whether or not fire drills were
conducted in the buildings and if so, how frequently. Ten (10) of the respondents said
they had ever been present for or participated in a fire drill. Four (4) respondents
expressed indifference, while the majority of respondents (146) said it had never
been done. From the study it can be concluded that health professionals are mostly
aware of emergency communication system, warning signs and fire assembly points.

3.7 Perceptions on Level of Preparedness in the Buildings

Table 8 : Perceptions on Level of Preparedness in the Buildings

Perception Satisfied Not satisfied Total

Respondents 47 113 160

Percentage 29.37 70.63 100

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 Ashiq Hussain Rather, Javeed A Rather, Shahid Saleem and Anil Kumar Gupta

The table displays the responses to the question about respondents' perceptions of
the preparedness level in their buildings. 47(29.37%) of the total respondents said that
they were satisfied, while the majority (70.63) said they were not. The study's findings
indicate that the majority of these respondents knew insufficiently about fire safety
precautions.

4. Conclusion
In conclusion, the study examined the preparedness and satisfaction levels of
healthcare workers regarding fire safety measures in selected hospitals in Srinagar
City. This had to do with the fact that numerous other installations had experienced
fires that resulted in property loss and fatalities. As a result, Srinagar City's fire
authority could be able to take action based on this information and implement the
necessary preventative and preparation measures. At this regard, it was crucial to
take into account the different precautions implemented at a number of carefully
chosen hospitals that may guard against potential fire hazards and prevent them
from happening. After evaluating the fire safety protocols and equipment used by the
hospital owners/administrators in the chosen hospitals, the study found that the
majority of buildings only had carbon dioxide and dry chemical extinguishers. In
order to increase preparedness, additional equipment must be installed or supplied by
those being responsible, because different types of fires require different types of fire
extinguishers. Similarly, it was discovered that relatively few inhabitants could operate
the two regularly encountered types of equipment; as a result, training is required to
ensure that they are prepared to handle any emergency involving a fire. The purpose
of this study was to evaluate the healthcare personnel's degree of fire preparation.
These are the individuals using these spaces to conduct their daily emergency business.
The results clearly demonstrate that the level of preparedness is still below expectations,
as the majority of respondents only demonstrated knowledge of the fire assembly
point and an emergency communication system. For this reason, it is essential that
the relevant authorities take the necessary steps to raise the level of preparedness,
such as regular inspections, fire drills, emergency services training, and the availability
of fire disaster kits. The study also aimed to find out how health care workers were
satisfied with the degree of preparedness and mitigation. The study found that the
majority of healthcare professionals were not entirely content. In this instance, the

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 Assessment of Fire Safety Knowledge, Perception, and Practices Among Healthcare Workers in Srinagar City, India

tenants suggested that, in order to increase their level of satisfaction, they must receive
frequent training in fire safety and that warning signs be positioned in a way that makes
them visible to patients, guests, and building attendants. They also want exits to be
well indicated. On their part, healthcare professionals sought routine inspections of fire
apparatus. Collaboration among building administrators/owners, property managers,
and occupants is therefore essential in raising their level of satisfaction and firefighting
proficiency. Since hydrants serve as a backup source of water supply in the event of
a fire, the study also aimed to ascertain the opinions of healthcare professionals
regarding the functionality of the hydrants in the city. The investigation found that
although there were fire hydrants in the city, they were either broken or inefficient.

5. Recommendations
This present study investigated the level of Knowledge, Perception and Practices of
Health Care Workers, besides the fire risk preparedness and mitigation in selected
hospitals in Srinagar City. Following the analysis of the data from respondents, it is
recommended that there is need to inspect the firefighting infrastructure in existence
in buildings in all the health institutions of Srinagar City with a view of upgrading
them to an acceptable standard. Programs for emergency procedures and evacuation
drills, routine fire safety inspections, upkeep and servicing of fire apparatus, staff and
trainee training, informing building occupants, maintaining records, and emergency
situations should all be implemented to improve fire safety measures. The effectiveness
and functionality of the fire hydrants in the urban area need to be inspected. The
authorities and owners/property managers of the medical facilities should invite fire
professionals to speak to the residents of their buildings about fire safety and the actual
application of firefighting and safety equipment.

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