Addressing Safety and Security Issues at R G Kar Hospital

The recent tragic incident involving the death of a postgraduate trainee at R G Kar Hospital has brought to light critical safety and security deficiencies within one of West Bengal’s most prominent medical facilities. This article delves into the various allegations raised by medical staff, highlighting the pressing issues related to CCTV coverage, facility conditions, unauthorised access, and overall security.

Insufficient CCTV Coverage: A Key Security Concern

Lack of Surveillance in Sensitive Areas

Doctors' significant concern is the absence of adequate CCTV coverage in crucial hospital areas. The seminar room where the trainee’s body was found, as well as other corridors and wards, reportedly lacked functional surveillance cameras. Currently, only the hospital's main gate is equipped with CCTV, and many of these cameras are said to be non-operational.

The lack of proper CCTV surveillance impairs the hospital’s ability to monitor activities effectively and respond to emergencies. This oversight poses a significant risk to the safety of both patients and staff, contributing to a heightened sense of insecurity and an environment where incidents can go unchecked.

One of the critical issues highlighted is the lack of designated rest areas for female doctors. The seminar room, which was used by the deceased doctor, lacks essential facilities such as a washroom. This deficiency forces medical staff to rest in unsuitable conditions, affecting their comfort and performance.

Challenges with Sanitation Facilities

The hospital also faces significant issues with sanitation. Doctors have reported the absence of proper washrooms and changing rooms for staff, particularly during night shifts. These inadequate facilities exacerbate the difficulties faced by medical personnel, impacting their ability to perform their duties efficiently.

Ineffective Screening Procedures

The hospital has been criticised for its ineffective screening procedures for individuals entering the premises, especially at night. The lack of stringent access control measures allows unauthorised individuals to enter the hospital, posing serious security risks.

Contractual workers at the hospital have been implicated in tout rackets, further complicating security. These workers often have unrestricted access to various wards, undermining the hospital’s environmental control and contributing to safety concerns.

Lack of Adequate Security Personnel

Doctors have expressed concerns about the lack of security personnel within the hospital, particularly during nighttime hours. Reducing private security coverage after 9 pm leaves the hospital vulnerable to security breaches and incidents. Poor Lighting Conditions Several hospital areas are poorly lit, which presents additional safety risks for staff, particularly women, who navigate these areas during night shifts. The lack of proper lighting further exacerbates security issues and creates an unsafe working environment.

Recommendations for Improvement

To address the security deficiencies, it is essential to expand the CCTV coverage throughout the hospital, including in sensitive areas such as corridors and wards. Ensuring all cameras are functional and monitored will enhance security and help prevent incidents. The hospital should invest in creating adequate rest areas and improving sanitation facilities for its staff. Providing clean and functional amenities will improve working conditions and overall staff well-being. Implementing rigorous screening procedures and controlling access to the hospital will mitigate security risks. Increasing the presence of security personnel and improving lighting in critical issues will enhance safety for both staff and patients.

Conclusion

R G Kar Hospital's severe safety and security issues underscore the need for immediate and comprehensive reforms. The hospital can significantly improve its operational environment, enhance staff safety, and ensure better patient care by addressing these critical concerns. Prompt action is necessary to rectify the current deficiencies and restore confidence in the hospital’s ability to provide a