Concrete measures would be taken to improve safety standards in the industries in the district, Minister for Infrastructure and Investments Ganta Srinivasa Rao said at a meeting on the safety measures in the industries, he held with representatives of trade unions, people’s representatives and officials, here on Thursday.
As many as 1.18 lakh workers are working in the 1,095 industries in the district and 108 industries are susceptible for accidents. Ninety one accidents were reported in 69 factories between 2010 and 2012 and most of them due to human error.
The Minister wanted a thorough study on the causes of accidents, lacunae in safety measures and warned that severe action would be taken on the industries that flout safety norms.
“Workers and trade union leaders know well the reasons for accidents and we give priority to their opinion while analysing the reasons for accidents”, he said.
Rajya Sabha Member T. Subbirami Reddy wanted special attention paid to the safety equipment in industries.
AITUC’s national council member and general secretary of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant’s recognised trade union D. Adinarayana felt that no pressure should be exerted on the officers visiting factories for inspection and issuing certificates. Workers, particularly engaged by the chemical industries must be provided protective dress and equipment and periodical inspections were necessary, he said.
INTUC leader Mantri Rajasekhar regretted that government, officers and trade unions would respond only at the time of accidents.
Leaders of CITU and BMS made suggestions on safety at industries. Inspector of Factories Chandrasekhara Varma explained the safety measures.
Government Whip Dronamraju Srinivasa Rao, Collector V. Seshadri, GVMC Commissioner M.V. Satyanarayana, MLC and MLAs participated.
