The Key Hindrance To Safety Is That People Have The Sab Kuch Chalta Hai Attitude

We spoke to P Srinivas, VP - Group Quality, Greenko Group to understand the key challenges faced in implementing safety regulations within his organisation, steps required to get workers to accept and follow safety related norms, support he received from his organization in enforcing safety at the workplace and his views on OSH India expo and the role played by it in enhancing OSH awareness.

Interviewed by Adeesh Sharma

From your long experience as a safety head, please tell us the key challenges you have faced in implementing safety regulations?

One of the key challenge is that people have “Sab Kuch Chaltahai” attitude. It percolates from the top management (sometimes) to the person on the shop floor. They always have the mindset that accidents happen “not to them” but “the next person”. The next thought process is they are experienced enough and if in unsafe situation, can overcome them smartly. This is the worst misconception. When asked to wear PPEs, they have all the excuses in the world It’s very hot to wear a helmet, the work position is in such a way that it does not allow to wear PPEs, it’s only a five minute job, I have performed more dangerous works than this, etc. The other challenge, especially in project locations is the dynamic work force. The workforce changes on a daily basis. So they do not return the PPEs supplied to them and in these conditions, it is very difficult to maintain the stocks. Another key challenge is the awareness about the hazards present in the work they are performing and precautions, they need to take. In addition, self discipline is required. You always need some supervisor to oversee them for behaving safely.

What steps are required to get workers to accept and follow safety related norms?

We must constantly talk to them on hazards present in work area through Tool Box Talks. Always make clear the “Dos and Don’ts”. Educate them and sensitise them that, if something happens to them, then what will happen to their families. Always remind them that there is someone who is waiting for them back home. Provide proper procedures, educate them and provide adequate PPEs and sign boards. Hammer the idea about safety through carrot and stick. Levy penalties to workmen and contractors for not following safety procedures/ norms. Give incentives for people who follow safety norms religiously. Show them videos about accidents and tell them how their work affects their own and their co-worker’s safety. Encourage them to identify more near miss cases.

How much support you get from your organization in enforcing safety at the workplace?

Our Top management is committed towards OHS. Safety is not only the responsibility of the Safety officer, but is the primary responsibility of plant heads and project heads. OHS team supports them with proper procedures, checklists and training.

Please tell us about your views on OSH India expo and the role played by it in enhancing OSH awareness. OHS is one of the primary concern in India due to “Sab Kuch Chalta Hai” attitude, we have. That is the reason, hammering the idea into people is of utmost importance. I Think OSH India expo is doing the exact thing which is the need of the hour, by bringing experienced OSH professionals to present their experiences and viewpoints. I have seen some of the speakers in the expo really adding lot of value by sharing their first hand experiences and situations.