Need to Change Mindsets Related to Implementing Safety Regulations

We spoke to Mr. Bharat Londhe, Head EHS, Piramal Group to understand the key challenges related to implementing safety regulations within a large organisation, the pre-requisites for safety managers before they conduct a workplace safety audit, the key points that you would like to convey to employees as part of an Occupational Safety Communication Program and his views on OSH India expo and the role played by it in enhancing OSH awareness.

What are the key challenges related to implementing safety regulations within a large organisation?

First of all, the mind-set and understanding of the people about safety regulations needs to change. Further, we need to unravel the complexity surrounding various safety regulations and impress upon the stakeholders the benefits that accrue post implementation of these regulations.

What are the pre-requisites for safety managers before they conduct a workplace safety audit?

A safety officer needs to be passionate about conducting such an audit and have strong auditing skills. Needless to add that he should have the minimum qualification and experience for conducting audit such an audit and a proven track record of having successfully done so. He should have complete understanding of the various safety regulations and safety standards. I would also prefer a person with the right attitude to be entrusted the job of conducting a safety audit within an organisation.

What are some of the key points that you would like to convey to employees as part of an Occupational Safety Communication Program?

The safety attitude needs to be engrained within your employees and they should be encouraged to maintain it regardless of somebody else working in a risky manner. Always encourage two way communications, ask questions from employees and try and understand their views on safety. Use the information gathered in day-to-day work related activities. All Incidents are preventable and we should not consider them as a matter of fate. Never compromise on safety and always consider all risks involved before starting work. Keep in mind your safe behaviour will make others behaviour safe because unfortunately people follow each other in their daily chores.

Please tell us about your views on OSH India expo and the role played by it in enhancing OSH awareness. I must appreciate the efforts of OSH India organisers who have created this platform for all safety professionals to come together and interact. The Expo is helping us in learning many things, and I firmly believe that seeing is believing. OSH India is creating opportunity for us to get all suppliers together at one place and understand their capabilities and know about various new innovative products being developed. I would also advise OSH India to incorporate more international faculties and suppliers in the conference and expo, as well as sponsor some safety professionals for international conferences.