Odisha orders safety audits for all schools by end of August

The Odisha state government has directed all eligible schools to complete structural and non-structural safety audits by the end of August. This directive, issued by OSEPA State Project Director Ananya Das to all district collectors, is part of the ‘School Safety Observation Week – 2026-27’.

The initiative follows concerns regarding student safety during the ongoing monsoon season, particularly in districts experiencing heavy rainfall. The audits and safety measures are being conducted in alignment with guidelines from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).

Required safety activities include: • Conducting fire, electrical, and structural safety checks. • Preparing School Safety and Disaster Management Plans and performing mock drills. • Ensuring functional toilets, hand-washing facilities, and first-aid kits. • Installing emergency bells or public-address systems and repairing fencing. • Obtaining fire safety certificates and managing the storage of toxic or inflammable materials.

District Education Officers (DEOs) are responsible for ensuring these assessments are completed. Schools are also expected to adopt a School Safety Resolution to document infrastructure deficiencies, which must be reported to Block or District Education Officers for government intervention.