SDMA ISSUES ADVISORY FOR NIGHTCLUBS, RESTAURANTS, BARS, EVENT VENUES & SIMILAR ESTABLISHMENTS
In view of the recent fire incident that resulted in the tragic loss of 25 lives, the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) under Sections 22(2)(h), 22(2)(i) and 24 of Disaster Management (DM) Act 2005 hereby issues this advisory to all nightclubs, restaurants, bars, event venues, and similar establishments operating within the State.
Under the above provisions of the DM Act, 2005, all such establishments are directed to ensure strict compliance with fire safety, electrical safety, emergency preparedness, and structural safety norms prescribed by the competent authorities. This shall include, but is not limited to:
1. Maintain a valid Fire NOC and comply with all conditions issued by the Fire Services Department.
2. Adhere strictly to authorized occupancy limits and display maximum capacity prominently; do not allow overcrowding.
3. Ensure functional smoke/heat detectors, alarms, sprinklers, hydrants, hose reels and serviced fire extinguishers.
4. Use certified electrical wiring and protection devices; remove temporary, overloaded or unsafe electrical connections immediately.
5. Keep all emergency exits and escape routes unobstructed with illuminated exit signage, evacuation maps and emergency lighting.
6. Train staff regularly; appoint a Fire Safety Officer for each shift; conduct documented evacuation drills at defined intervals.
7. Include NDMA-recommended escape measures in staff training (e.g., if trapped and unable to exit safely, tie bedsheets together to form a makeshift escape rope/ladder when height is manageable).
All establishments are further directed to conduct an internal safety audit within 7 days and keep the report ready for inspection by the district administration, fire services, or SDMA-authorized teams.
Non-compliance will attract strict enforcement action including closure, suspension or cancellation of licenses and prosecution under Section 51(b) of the DM Act, 2005 and other applicable laws.
This advisory is issued as per the direction of State Disaster Management Authority and shall come into immediate effect.
The Advisory is also available on the official website www.sdma.goa.gov.in
