Jindal officials, including the company promoter and plant manager, have been booked for violating safety norms by failing to comply with the Onsite Emergency Plan approval process, as mandated by the Industrial Safety Act.
NEW DElHI (India CSR): The Industrial Health & Safety Department in Pithampur in Madhya Pradesh has taken action against Kingspan Jindal Private Limited, a subsidiary of Jindal Steel Limited, for violating safety norms. The factory, located in the Sagore area of Pithampur Industrial Area, is involved in the manufacturing of PUF and Rockwool panels, pre-engineered building, and pre-fabricated building doors.
Charges Filed Against Company Promoter and Plant Manager
Rajesh Yadav, the deputy chief inspector of the Industrial Health & Safety Department in Pithampur, has stated that the company has been booked under sections 41B and 41C of the Industrial Safety Act, 1948. The charges are related to the violation of guidelines outlined in the act regarding the Onsite Emergency Plan. Saurabh Jindal, the company’s promoter, and Pawan Namdev, the plant manager, have been named as accused in the case.
Importance of Onsite Emergency Plan Approval
Under the act, it is mandatory for the company management to obtain approval from the chief inspector of factories (CIO) for the Onsite Emergency Plan. This approval is granted only after the company fulfills all the necessary safety requirements for the workers and nearby residents. The act was strengthened after the Bhopal Union Carbide disaster, which resulted in a significant loss of life. The Onsite Emergency Plan includes provisions for fire-fighting, worker rescue, and emergency exits in the event of a mishap at the factory.
Significance of Compliance with Safety Measures
The act necessitates that companies prepare their plans in a manner that enables a dedicated team to effectively manage any damage caused by an incident. Yadav mentioned that his office had repeatedly reminded the company to prepare and obtain approval for the plan. However, since the company failed to respond, a case was registered. He emphasized that this is a serious offense, with potential imprisonment of up to seven years and a fine of up to Rs 2 lakh if the charges are proven in court.
