Electrical Fires in Hospitals and Safety

Electrical safety in hospitals is a subject of high attention due to the recent fire incidents in Covid Hospitals. In comparison to a general electrical installation, in medical locations it is necessary to ensure the safety of patients likely to be subjected to the application of medical electrical equipment. For every activity and function in a medical location, the requirements for safety must be considered.

Recent News in India

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/death-by-hospital-fire-the-hindu-editorial-on-operational-fitness-of-hospitals/article37428795.ece

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/behind-frequent-hospital-fires-covid-patients-death-toll-7302274/

https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/11-covid-patients-die-in-maharashtra-hospital-fire-101636223547035.html

Electrical safety in Hospitals is ensured by safety of the installation and the safe operation and maintenance of medical electrical equipment connected to it. The use of medical electrical equipment on patients undergoing intensive care (of critical importance) has called for enhanced reliability and safety of electrical installations in hospitals to improve the safety and continuity of supplies which is met by application of this standard. Variations of the standard to further enhance safety and reliability are acceptable.

The technical webinar is to explain the electrical safety requirements in hospitals and in medical locations as per IS 17512:2019 and the background behind major safety recommendations to be followed in a hospital.

1. TN-S type electrical distribution shall be followed.
2. Maximum tripping time of protective device for a 230-volt fault shall be 0.2 seconds. Touch voltage shall not exceed 50 V.

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