Print fraternity stresses on the importance of safety measures

Anuj Bhargava of Kumar Labels remembered how he visited the facility in March. “I was there with a machine supplier. I had all admiration for the well-managed unit. I checked the company’s corrugation set-up on the rooftop shed. I am very sad to hear about the fire,” he said.

Even when PrintWeek India visited the facility last year, we were impressed with the modern décor of the office building.

Bhargava said that as soon as he heard the news of the tragedy, he had set up a new procedure for the monthly audit of electrical panels in his own facility. “Also, all cables nearby the warehouse areas are being routed to a distance,” he said, adding, “I think organisations like AIFMP and LMAI should take a lead in arranging such audits at a nominal cost to a printer.”

Even CP Paul of IPAMA, and the owner of APL Machinery, whose factory is not far from the site, argued that printers should go for a monthly audit for fire and other safety measures, conducted preferably by an outside agency. “And, the higher management should heed these reports seriously,” he said, adding, “Financial loss can be managed, but if it leads to losses of life, it is a big loss for all of us.”

He said that IPAMA could help printers check their machines on a regular basis and give them a report or suggestions to opt for services and new wiring. “We are ready to do that,” he said.

According to Harsh Ratan Varshney of Reliance General Insurance Company, from an insurer perspective, printing companies come in a high-risk category. “The first time, a policyholder has to be careful and pay attention to risk engineers who visit the factory and give grades for risk,” he said.

He said there are two types of insurance policies for a printing firm – general and Industrial All Risk policies. A printer can cover maximum risk in All Risk Policy with a higher premium. He also urged printers to follow all rules mentioned by the fire brigade to avoid accidents.

On fire safety, Delhi-based electrical engineer Vikas Sharma said wirings of all machines and premises should be checked on a monthly basis. “One must never opt for jugaad (temporary arrangements), instead go for proper treatment for damaged wiring. Always keep advanced and updated equipment with you because printing press is always full of paper and chemicals, which are fire conductors,” he said.

Does shopfloor safety make a difference? Read the Avinash Kawadkar Blog from April 2015.