Centre sends security SOP to central govt hospitals

In a letter to heads of central government hospitals and institutes including AIIMS/INIs, the Union Ministry of Health Family Welfare asked them to enhance security measures on their premises.

“It has been evidenced for a long time that government hospitals are more permeable to the public compared to private facilities, making it easier for unauthorised individuals to enter freely. While accessibility is important for providing care, it can also pose security risks,” the letter said.

“Hospitals sometimes become targeted by acts of violence, including assault on staff, which can be related to disputes, dissatisfaction with medical care, or external criminal activities. Ensuring the safety of healthcare professionals is vital,” it added.

Stating that violence and harassment against staff can disrupt operations and affect the quality of care provided to patients, the ministry called for a comprehensive approach to security that balances accessibility with effective measures to protect patients, staff and the integrity of the facility.

It instructed hospitals to take the following measures:

• Proper display of relevant penal provisions of the state legislation to prevent violence against healthcare workers on hospital premises.
• Sufficient number of high-resolution CCTV cameras at strategic locations.
• Setting up of control room for quick response to an emergency situation.
• Deployment of at least one admin staff at the control room.
• Employment of an adequate number of well-trained security guards for proper monitoring/patrolling/surveillance of premises
• Strict monitoring of entry and exit to allow entry of authorised persons only.
• Identification badges for staff, patients, and visitors.
• Display of I Card by all hospital staff while on duty to be made mandatory.