According to guidelines issued under the National Building Code by the Bureau of Indian Standards, buildings exceeding 15 meters in height are classified as high-rise structures. Such buildings are required to be equipped with fire alarm systems, smoke detection systems, and automatic sprinkler installations to ensure early warning and fire suppression capabilities.
The code further mandates that high-rise buildings must have a minimum of two staircases constructed using fire-resistant materials to ensure safe evacuation during emergencies. Additionally, a dedicated fire-resistant lift must be installed for use by fire and emergency personnel during rescue and firefighting operations. Provision for a refuge area within the building structure is also required to offer temporary safe shelter during emergencies.
Electrical safety remains a critical compliance requirement, with periodic inspections of wiring systems mandated along with the possession of valid fire no-objection certification. Adequate water storage infrastructure, including underground and rooftop tanks, pumps, and fire hydrant systems, is also required to support firefighting operations.
As per Delhi Fire Service regulations, fire safety certification is mandatory for residential buildings with a height of 15 meters or more, or those comprising five or more floors. Hotels are required to obtain certification if they exceed 12 meters in height or have four floors. Buildings with two or more basement levels also fall under compulsory certification norms. Schools and colleges require certification if they exceed 9 meters in height or three floors, while commercial buildings must comply if they exceed 15 meters or have five or more floors. Shopping complexes and malls require certification beyond 9 meters or three floors. Industrial buildings and warehouses must obtain certification if the total built-up area exceeds 250 square meters. Residential building fire safety certification remains valid for five years, while non-residential buildings, hotels, and guest houses have a validity period of three years.
Fire safety protocols emphasize regular fire drills, avoidance of flammable materials near gas lines and electrical wiring, immediate activation of fire alarms during emergencies, and the use of staircases instead of lifts for evacuation. Individuals are advised to cover their nose and mouth with cloth to avoid smoke inhalation, ensure the safe evacuation of children and elderly persons, alert nearby occupants, immediately contact emergency services on 101, and strictly follow instructions issued by fire and rescue personnel.
The incident in Lucknow has underscored the urgent need for strict enforcement of fire safety regulations and comprehensive compliance across all categories of buildings to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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