Industrial fires in Bangladesh and pathways to prevention

Abstract

Fire hazards have become increasingly prevalent in the industrial sector of Bangladesh due to the rapid expansion of unregulated industries, inadequate infrastructure, and poor safety standards for complex machinery and strenuous processes. Export-oriented garment industries maintain some safety standards due to buyer organizations, trade unions, and government requirements, while other sectors still face significant risk, causing substantial economic and human losses. This study investigated the causes, impacts, and gaps in the existing systems that contribute to industrial fire risks by employing a qualitative method, involving the analysis of incident reports and key informant interviews (KII) with fire safety experts and first responders. Findings revealed that inadequate fire protection systems, noncompliance with safety regulations, and a lack of effective preventive strategies are mainly responsible for fire hazards in the industrial sector. Outcomes are supported by case studies, demonstrating that these deficiencies led to significant losses of life, property, and economy. This study identified several critical prevention measures, including hazard analysis, employee training, safety drills, safety inspections, emergency action plans, infrastructure planning, and emergency evacuation plans to safeguard lives, assets, and businesses. The findings emphasise the need for a comprehensive, policy-driven strategy to mitigate fire hazard risk across diverse industries in Bangladesh.

J. Asiat. Soc. Bangladesh, Sci. 51(2): 251-273, December 2025