State Comptroller Reveals Serious Deficiencies in Public Shelter Safety Across Israel

A surprise inspection conducted by the State Comptroller in September 2025 during the "Iron Swords" war uncovered alarming safety and maintenance issues in protected rooms within essential public buildings across Israel. The audit examined 16 facilities nationwide, including offices of the National Insurance Institute, Employment Service, Clalit and Maccabi Health Services, and Ministry of Health-operated family health stations (Tipat Halav).

The inspection assessed various aspects such as accessibility, internal condition, door and window integrity, ventilation ducts, railings, ladders, plumbing, electrical and communication systems, and related equipment. Findings revealed that between 8% and 23% of buildings lacked any proper shelter protection: 8% of National Insurance Institute buildings, 23% of Clalit facilities, 22% of Employment Service offices and Tipat Halav stations, and 12% of Maccabi Health Services buildings had no shelters at all.

Moreover, 69% of the inspected shelters had at least one deficiency related to access routes or signage, while 94% showed internal issues like missing illuminated signs, disorder, or inappropriate wall coverings. Door seals and locking mechanisms were faulty in 14 of 16 shelters, and 88% had ventilation openings with missing or damaged sealing gaskets, screws, or covers.

State Comptroller Matanyahu Englman warned of the consequences these shortcomings pose to public safety and critical infrastructure continuity during emergencies. He emphasized the need for ongoing maintenance and readiness of shelters to ensure they provide safe environments for prolonged stays in crises. Englman demanded that institutions with identified faults promptly clear and mark access paths, ensure functional doors and locks, maintain safe escape ladders, provide sanitary solutions with safe materials, and equip shelters with proper communication infrastructure.

The report highlights the urgency of addressing these vulnerabilities amid ongoing missile threats to Israel, underscoring the importance of safeguarding lives and maintaining essential services during wartime or natural disasters.