The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): In response to recent tragic fire incidents, the Delhi government has issued a circular directing factories, shops, and construction sites to ensure all firefighting equipment is functional and that there are no obstructions on staircases. This directive follows a blaze at a private neonatal hospital that claimed the lives of six newborns, and other fire incidents at an entertainment center in Rajkot, Gujarat, and a factory in Dombivli, Thane.
The circular, issued on May 27 by the Delhi government’s labour department, instructs all district in-charges to verify that establishments in their jurisdictions have operational fire-fighting equipment such as fire extinguishers, sand buckets, and fire alarms. Fire extinguishers for electrical fires and sand buckets filled with dry sand must be placed in prominent locations.
“Flammable items such as chemicals and solvents should be stored in a cool, isolated place and handled by authorized personnel. Staircases must be kept clear of any obstacles,” the circular states.
The circular also addresses measures to mitigate the effects of the prevailing heatwave conditions in the national capital. It emphasizes the importance of providing adequate clean drinking water, ensuring the availability of coolers and fans, and maintaining proper ventilation at workplaces.
Additionally, the circular advises against allowing workers to work in direct sunlight and recommends adjusting work shifts to avoid peak hours between 12 noon and 4 p.m. Workers should be trained on heatwave precautions, including covering their heads when exposed to direct sunlight. Emergency kits containing items like ice packs and ORS should be made available for construction workers and employees.
To minimize fire hazards, the circular highlights that there should be no joints in electrical wires or cables whenever possible. All non-current carrying metallic parts and the metallic frames of electrical appliances or equipment must be properly earthed.
These measures are part of the Delhi government’s broader initiative to enhance safety standards and protect workers from both fire hazards and heatwave effects. The directive underscores the need for increased vigilance and adherence to safety protocols in commercial and industrial settings.