Fire safety measures should be non-negotiable

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A day after a fire broke out on the set of Pati Patni Aur Panga 2 in Film City, Goregaon, the All-Indian Cine Workers Association, on October 6, called for an overhaul of fire safety norms at the shooting hub.

The body demanded that every set have a designated fire officer, adequate firefighting equipment, and mandatory audits, with cancellation of licences in cases of non-compliance. It also sent a letter to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis with certain demands for action.

A fire broke out around 4 pm on October 5 at a temporary structure outside the main set of ‘Pati Patni Aur Panga 2'. The Mumbai Fire Brigade brought the fire under control, and no injuries were reported.

Fire compliance must be done double quick at all sets and shooting hubs. There are some important and immediately implementable suggestions within our report for fire safety. Basic firefighting measures include water availability on set. Extremely basic. Electrical equipment and wiring checks done on a regular basis at dedicated shooting spaces, including studios. Smoking must be banned within the premises, even for superstars who should not be allowed to bend any rules. There must be at least one exit route, clearly marked. This has to be free, not choked by material or any kind of debris. Every person on set must be aware of this escape avenue.

Even help/emergency numbers should be pasted on the walls of the set or in a clearly visible space. All flammable materials have to be handled according to the rules. Regular and surprise on-ground checks are a must. Every project taken to the floors must have safety at its core.