The Directorate of Fire & Emergency Services, Goa (DFES), on December 10, 2025, issued a comprehensive circular laying down Fire & Life Safety Guidelines for All Occupancies in the wake of recent fire incidents resulting in significant loss of life. The circular reiterates mandatory statutory compliance under the Goa Fire Force Act, 1986 and Rules, 1997, including obtaining and maintaining a valid Fire No Objection Certificate (NOC), adherence to approved building layouts, maintenance of records, and ensuring that trade licenses and occupancy certificates remain supported by current fire clearances.
The circular prescribes minimum standards for fire prevention, fire protection, detection systems, life safety measures, and means of escape, such as unobstructed exits, fire-retardant materials, compliant electrical installations, installation and maintenance of alarms, sprinklers, extinguishers, smoke control systems, emergency lighting, signage, and occupant load management. It emphasizes NBC-compliant egress design, protected staircases, functional fire-rated doors, and special evacuation considerations for vulnerable persons.
Further, DFES mandates emergency preparedness, regular training, and quarterly fire drills, placing primary responsibility on owners, occupiers, and management for continuous compliance, maintenance, and rectification of deficiencies. Local licensing authorities are directed to strictly enforce fire safety compliance and verify valid Fire Safety NOCs before granting or renewing licenses, with non-compliant establishments liable for suspension or revocation of licenses. The circular underscores that fire and life safety is an ongoing, shared responsibility.
[File No.: DFES/FP/CIRCULAR/25-26/26]
