EHS Officers: How Can I Safeguard Myself in a Hazardous Work Environment?

Dear All,

I am Krunal Mhatre, working in a small-scale chemical industry (API) as an EHS executive. Currently, the infrastructure situation at my company is at its worst. The management plans to reconstruct the plant within the next 6 months, but the support structure of the company is not reliable for working.

In the event of an accident leading to a fatality, how can I protect myself? I am seeking suggestions regarding procedures, tips, and any written proof that could be helpful.

Your guidance is invaluable to me.

Thank you.

If you go through the state factory rules, it clearly mentions the qualifications, duties, and conditions of service of Safety Officers in a Factory. Most of the state factory rules have this provision.

Important Aspects from "The Tamil Nadu Safety Officers (Duties, Qualifications, and Conditions of Service) Rules, 2005":

"To carry out plant safety inspections in order to observe the physical conditions of work and the work practices and procedures followed by workers and to render advice on measures to be adopted for removing the unsafe physical conditions and preventing unsafe actions by workers."

This is the utmost important aspect that a safety officer must do to protect themselves from a legal point of view. Conduct proper plant safety inspections periodically. Document it (make it in black and white) and submit it to the concerned management representatives via email or hard copy. This can help you showcase that you are performing your job in front of the court of law.

The other functions mentioned in the Factory Rules require a Safety Officer to advise, promote, render, etc. All these tasks are to be done in coordination with other departments and management. If the management is not inclined to heed your advice, as a safety officer (who is like a joker if not empowered), you can't do much.

So, check your state factory rules. Wherever under the duties of Safety Officer, statements like "Perform," "Conduct," "Carry Out" are written, please execute all those actions. Document them. You will be safeguarded in front of legislations.

Take this assignment as a challenge. Strive to change the culture of the organization. Do your best to implement safety systems so that innocent human lives in the factory can be saved. All the very best.

Regards

Hi,

Dipil Sir has provided the ultimate answer for your query. When taking a plant round, you must observe and insist on safe work practices and seek external trainer support to stop unsafe work practices. It is important to circulate daily safety observations department-wise (electrical, mechanical, production, etc.), and ensure that the mail is sent to your personal email ID as it will be very helpful.

Regards,

GDV Prasad