Fire audit of all museums, libraries in the pipeline

The fire that gutted precious exhibits at the National Museum of Natural History in New Delhi on Tuesday appears to have spurred the Department of Fire and Emergency Services to look at preventive measures in Karnataka.

Looking beyond safety of people, the department has turned its attention to the invaluable items housed in various art galleries, museums and libraries in the State.

A re-audit of fire safety in all these spaces – government-owned and private – is likely to be conducted soon. It will include libraries within educational institutions, such as the one in Bangalore University’s Central College campus. Also on the list are the archives section in Vidhana Soudha, the Venkatappa Art Gallery, State Central Library and the Government Arts Museum. M.N. Reddi, Director General of Police, Fire and Emergency Services, told

The Hindu that fire audits for most public buildings and important museums were done long ago, according to the National Building Code.

“Until now, the focus of fire audits was on fire exit, etc, which were people-centric. However, in the new fire audit, focus would be on assets. In museums, art galleries and libraries, the assets are invaluable. At the same time, books are highly combustible,” he explained.