BANGKOK — The Bangkok bar that erupted into flames, killing 30 people, lacked some basic safety systems that might have saved lives, an independent expert told AFP today.

Wasawat Kitsiriteeraphak, a former president of Thailand’s Building Inspector Association, visited the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao restaurant and bar with forensic police in the wake of Sunday’s deadly blaze.

Afterwards, he said he believed the venue lacked the safety systems required for the large crowds and live music it hosted.

Fire escape routes, alarm systems and emergency preparedness can “help minimise the severity of potential loss of life and property”, he told AFP.

But during his preliminary inspection, he said he saw “no emergency exit signage, emergency lighting systems or fire alarm devices”.

Wasawat, a consultant who has worked with forensic police in other cases, cautioned that a comprehensive assessment by officials would be needed.

Thailand’s approach to health and safety regulations—particularly in bars and nightclubs—has long raised concerns.

In 2009, a blaze tore through Bangkok’s Santika club during New Year celebrations, killing 67 people and injuring more than 200.

In 2022, 25 people died after a fire ripped through the Mountain B nightclub in Thailand’s eastern Chonburi province.

“It keeps happening... since Santika, and now this incident again. It’s a huge loss,” said Jittiya Phaiklaw, whose niece died in Sunday’s fire.