What caused the under-construction metro pier in Bengaluru to fall?

What caused the under-construction metro pier in Bengaluru to fall?

It remains a mystery as to why the reinforcement cage of the under-construction metro pier swayed, buckled and eventually gave away, killing a woman and her toddler son in HBR Layout on Tuesday morning.

Was it the cage’s enormous weight? Or was its height?

Authoritative sources in the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) said the weight and height make the cage unwieldy but not unmanageable. “We have erected heavier and taller cages than this,” a source said.

The cage in question, a circular column made of TMT bars, weighed 30-40 tonnes and was 16.5 metres tall. “Given the size, it needs support, which is provided by scaffolding and then by guy-wires (metal ropes),” the source said.

When the cage gave way, at least six labourers were working on top of it to remove the scaffolding and tie the guy-wires. “Everything was fine until then. Our engineers had inspected the site just an hour earlier, found everything was in order and moved to the next location,” the source told DH.

As the labourers were removing the scaffolding, the cage encountered an imbalance and one of the guy-wires gave away. “We don’t know how,” the source explained. The labourers jumped down to save themselves.

While the incident has sparked questions about safety at metro sites, the source insisted that the BMRCL “rigorously” follows the method statement, a document that details how every work should be carried out.

“Every stage of the work is checked, first by the contractor’s safety engineers and then by our engineers and an independent agency,” the source explained. “Every activity is carried out only after the approval comes.”

The BMRCL has formed an internal inquiry committee consisting of chief engineers from the safety, quality and work departments. The report is expected in three days. Separately, it will ask the civil engineering department of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) to do an independent investigation.

While BMRCL boss Anjum Parwez said that the contractor (NCC Ltd) would be issued a notice, a source said the company might get away with meagre fines.

As per the contract, the company can be fined Rs 5 lakh per fatal incident and Rs 10 lakh for the second incident.

Large companies usually subcontract the work. A spokesperson for NCC Ltd promised to connect DH to the top brass but didn’t respond later.

Metro goes incommunicado

Namma Metro took more than seven hours to issue a statement on the tragedy, drawing further criticism. It promised to pay Rs 20 lakh to the victims’ family and bear their medical expenses. “BMRCL is deeply saddened by the unfortunate incident and stands with the distressed family,” the statement said.

Shadow on airport line

The tragedy occurred on the 38.44-km KR Puram-Airport metro line under Phase 2B, which is being constructed by the Hyderabad-based Nagarjuna Constructions Company (NCC) Ltd in three packages: Benniganahalli (KR Puram)-Kempapura, Kempapura-Yelahanka Air Force Station, and IAF Station to Airport. The cost is Rs 9,583.54 crore.

Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai last month announced the airport line would be ready by “December 2023” but metro officials say that deadline is impossible. The accident is likely to cause further delay.

The BMRCL has so far erected just 30% of the over 1,000 piers necessary for the airport line. The viaducts are currently being cast in the yard. Work on stations will start afterwards.

Phase 2B will connect to the 19.75-km Phase 2A, which runs from KR Puram to Silk Board.

All about World Tunnelling Day

For civil engineers in Australia and worldwide, December 4th holds special significance as World Tunnelling Day. This day celebrates the invaluable contributions of tunnellers, whose efforts enhance our lives through the creation of underground utilities, roads, and public transport infrastructure.

World Tunnelling Day also honors Saint Barbara, recognized as the patron saint of tunnellers, miners, and individuals engaged in underground construction. Rooted in a tradition dating back to the 1500s, it is customary to establish a small shrine to Saint Barbara at the onset of a new tunnelling project, typically positioned at the tunnel portal. This ritual is accompanied by a prayer seeking Saint Barbara's protection for all those involved in the tunnel's construction.

The question arises: Why Saint Barbara?

Legend has it that Saint Barbara, dating back to the third century A.D. in present-day Istanbul, Turkey, was the daughter of a wealthy man who secluded her in a tower for protection. Escaping and embracing Christianity, she faced denouncement by her father, sought refuge with miners in Greece, and met a tragic end—decapitated by her own father. Struck down by lightning as divine punishment, the association with explosives in underground darkness became linked with Saint Barbara, leading some to exclaim "Saint Barbara!" during lightning strikes.

This tradition endures, evident in recent blessings by the Dean of St Mary’s Cathedral at the Bligh Street Sydney Metro Railway Project, where tunnelling commenced in 2018. The practice extends to naming Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) after notable women, exemplified by the West Gate Tunnel Project's TBMs, Bella and Vida. Bella Guerin, the first Melbourne university graduate (M. Arts) in 1883, and Vida Goldstein, a women's rights advocate, symbolize the tradition.

In Australia, the tunnelling custom dictates that a TBM must bear a female name for good luck. Today, gratitude extends not only to Bluey tunnellers nationwide but also to the wider community tirelessly contributing to improving the quality and safety of life for all Australians.

"Bhopal Tragedy: Unveiling the Roots of the Deadliest Industrial Accident in History through a Comprehensive Root Cause Analysis."

"As a former Union Carbide Corp. (UCC) employee, the moment I heard the news is etched in memory, mirroring the experiences of my colleagues. Delving into the root cause of this tragic incident not only offers insights but also presents opportunities to glean valuable lessons from the mistakes that precipitated the Bhopal disaster."

In the 11th century, Raja Bhoj of Dhar founded a city on the shores of a beautiful lake in central India. Today, that city, Bhopal, is a bustling metropolis of 2 million people. The city and surrounding area is home to a large wildlife refuge, a museum of Indian tribal life, a collection of historical palaces and temples, and Stone Age cave paintings.

Almost anywhere else in the world, this city would be a major tourist attraction, but Bhopal is well-known for something else: It is the site of the deadliest industrial accident in history.

The Accident

"The Tragedy Unfolds: In the early hours of December 3, 1984, a devastating release of toxic methyl isocyanate (MIC) gas occurred at a Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL) pesticide plant. The lethal cloud engulfed a densely populated area south of the plant, extending over a railway station 2 km away, resulting in numerous casualties among those waiting for and arriving on trains.

Approximately 500,000 people downwind faced exposure to the lethal gas cloud. While the exact death toll remains uncertain, estimates range from a commonly accepted 2,000 (D’Silva 2006) to a potentially higher figure of 8,000 (Amnesty International 2004). In the immediate aftermath, thousands perished, with tens of thousands sustaining severe injuries. Tragically, many succumbed prematurely in the months and years following the release, underscoring the profound and enduring impact of the Bhopal disaster."

A Personal Connection

"As a former employee of Union Carbide Corp. (UCC), the U.S. parent company of UCIL during the tragic incident, the news of the Bhopal disaster is etched in my memory, much like my fellow UCC colleagues.

During a recent trip to India, I visited Bhopal to witness the site of the idle plant, now abandoned for 30 years, succumbing to rust and overgrowth. The debate over its fate continues, with some advocating for demolition and cleanup, while others propose its preservation as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The aftermath persists in the local community, evident through billboards, graffiti demanding restitution, and ongoing medical facilities treating individuals for various health issues, as documented by Amnesty International. The social and economic repercussions are profound, exacerbating poverty, causing loss of breadwinners, and imposing lasting stigmas on those affected, particularly young women.

Reflecting on the approaching 30th anniversary, it becomes evident how little awareness exists about this catastrophic event. It is crucial to commemorate the lives lost and those still suffering while recommitting to learning from this tragedy, ensuring that such a devastating incident never recurs."

Seeking the Truth

"The elusive truth surrounding Bhopal remains a challenge to unveil, given the inherent complexities of investigating a catastrophe of such magnitude. The difficulty was compounded by interference from vested interests, adding layers of opacity to the inquiry.

Amidst the myriad accounts and narratives surrounding the incident, much of the information is speculative or driven by the specific agendas of involved parties. Drawing from personal experiences and extensive research, I've distilled the following analysis.

Examining the Political, Legal, Economic, and Social Landscape, safety expert Trevor Kletz's perspective on the absence of a singular root cause is pertinent. Instead, he suggests a point at which questioning ceases. In this context, delving into the days of the British Raj becomes essential, as the residue of colonialism appears to have left an indelible mark on the psyche of the people and the political and legal systems of India, contributing in multifaceted ways to the tragic events in Bhopal."

"Fig. 1 provides a snapshot of the cultural environment during the Bhopal accident, highlighting key drivers on the left and their consequential effects on the right.

Drivers of the Culture (Left side):

1. The recent history of colonialism, signifying India's past subjugation by a foreign power.

2. The pervasive poverty in the country, exacerbated by abject conditions near the plant.

3. The prevailing appeal of socialism in India during that historical period.

4. The absence of a safety culture within the industrial framework.

Effects of the Drivers (Right side):

1. Establishment of a legal system overtly pro-India, pro-citizen, and anti-foreign corporation, dissuading Western companies like IBM and Coca-Cola from sustaining operations in the country.

2. Rapid development of a shantytown in the supposed buffer area around the plant, supported by local politicians who resisted UCIL's efforts to remove squatters.

3. Employee mistrust of management hindered the implementation of a suitable safety culture, impeding the investigation of incidents and near misses as workers concealed them.

This illustration underscores how these cultural factors played pivotal roles in shaping the legal, economic, and social landscape surrounding the Bhopal tragedy."

The plant was not making money for a couple of reasons. Sales were much lower than predicted because of economic hardships in India and unexpected competition. Manufacturing costs were high due to problems with the technology. It cost four times as much to make the pesticide in Bhopal as it did to make it in the United States (Fig. 2).

UCIL had decided to permanently shut down the plant and ship it out of India. The plant was in its last production run at the time of the accident, working off the last batch of MIC.

It was against this legal, political, economic, and social backdrop that the final events and decisions leading to the tragedy unfolded.

Description of the Plant

Fig. 3 illustrates the pesticide production facilities at which the MIC was produced on site in the production plant and consumed on site as a raw material in the pesticide plant (MIC consumer).

Fig. 3—A schematic of the methyl isocyanate (MIC) process plant.

The plant design (partially batch) required MIC storage, which was to be kept at minimum volumes. A caustic scrubber was provided to neutralize the MIC vented from the storage tanks, and a flare was used to burn the vented MIC. A refrigeration system was provided to keep the stored MIC cold to decrease the rate of MIC’s reaction with water and other contaminants.

Initiating Event: Operator Error or Sabotage?

"Accidents often trace back to a triggering event, and in the case of Bhopal, it stemmed from the introduction of a substantial amount of water (approximately 200 gallons) into the MIC tank. While MIC is typically stable, its highly reactive nature with water initiates an exothermic reaction, leading to an increase in temperature and pressure within the tank, eventually triggering venting.

Controversy surrounds the origin of the water in the tank. One account implicates operators in another plant section water-washing the vent header, allegedly allowing water to reach the MIC tank. However, technical scrutiny dismisses this scenario as implausible (Kalelkar 1988), even though it continues to be debated by those with vested legal and political interests.

The more plausible explanation points towards sabotage, with evidence suggesting that a disgruntled worker intentionally injected water into the tank, possibly to spoil the MIC batch (D’Silva 2006; Kalelkar 1988)."

Bypassed or Broken Safeguards

Significant safeguards were designed into the plant to prevent an MIC release, or at least to minimize its impact. Although the safeguards were probably adequate for handling typical initiating events, they may not have been adequate to handle the quantity of water injected into the tank on that day. We will never know, because all of the other safeguards were bypassed, out-of-service that night, or otherwise rendered ineffective.

No Means of Adding Water to the Tank

It is common in industrial facilities to install valves and drains in piping systems to make it easy to vent and drain the systems and inject water, steam, nitrogen, or air for purging or cleaning the systems. The designers of the Bhopal facility were aware that accidental injection of water could be catastrophic. Hence, the installed system had no drains or vents. Investigation (Kalelker) suggested that the injection of water could not have been a simple human error. It appears that the saboteur removed a pressure gauge and installed a hose connection in its place.

Minimizing the Stored Volume of MIC

The simplest of the safeguards was a safety directive to minimize the quantity of stored MIC stored. As indicated in Fig. 3, there were three storage tanks. According to the procedure, two tanks should have been empty and the third should have been at less than 50% level.

The actual level in Tank E-610 was about 70% (and Tank E-611 also contained MIC). Had there been less MIC in the tank, operators may have had the options to add diluent to slow the reaction.

Refrigeration System Out of Service

The rate of an exothermic reaction is decreased by decreasing the temperature. A refrigeration system was provided to keep the MIC at about 30°F. Had the tank been operated at that temperature, the reaction rate would have been much lower and the event may have been far less catastrophic.

Ironically, the refrigeration system was turned off months before the accident as a safety measure. The seals of the pump circulating the MIC through the refrigeration unit were prone to leaks. After one catastrophic seal failure, the refrigeration system was shut down permanently.

Caustic Scrubber

The vented MIC escaped through the vent gas scrubber (caustic scrubber). In the scrubber, it should have contacted caustic (sodium hydroxide), which would have neutralized at least some of the MIC.

There are conflicting reports on the operation of the scrubber. Some report that the scrubber was out of service for maintenance, while others report that it was operating, but that the flowmeter was not working. Hence, we have no direct evidence that caustic was pumped to the scrubber.

Even if the scrubber was in service, it probably had little effect. Scrubbers function by causing intimate contact between the liquid and gas streams. The gas flow rate on the night of the accident was probably from four to five times the scrubber design rate. At that flow rate, the vapor/liquid contact would have been poor.

Flare Out of Service

As in most processing facilities, the ultimate line of defense against vented gases is the flare, which is designed to burn the vented gases going through it. On the night of the accident, the flare was out of service. A section of pipe in the flare header was corroded and the flare had been taken out of service. 

Shantytown in the Plant Buffer Area

India is a crowded country with inadequate public transportation. The UCIL plant was a major employer, so it was natural that people would want to live near the plant. The poorest of the poor set up a shantytown along the plant perimeter, many literally using the plant’s concrete fence as one wall of their house. UCIL had tried multiple times to have the shantytown removed, but was unsuccessful because the shantytown residents were voters, and the local politicians supported them.

Ineffective Emergency Response

No on-duty UCIL employees were killed in the event because as the plant operators became aware of what was happening, including the direction from which the wind blew, they chose an appropriate evacuation route.

An effective emergency response would undoubtedly have saved many people in the community. UCIL issued no alarm to the community and provided no information to civil authorities until about 2 hours after the initial release of the gas.

Ineffective Treatment of the Injured

A final safeguard would have been effective treatment of the injured. In the immediate aftermath, the doctors did not know the cause of the incident and were unable to determine the appropriate treatment of the injured.

Local groups argue that still today, thousands are suffering from the exposure and that the funding allotted for their treatment is inadequate.

Internal Communication Failures

It was a remarkable series of defeated safeguards and it seems incredible that a plant would be operated in this manner. As I read the various accident reports, I sensed that the decisions were made by different people at different times. It was possible that no single person knew that all of the safeguards were out of service. It is a fundamental weakness of defense in depth when an individual can bypass a single safeguard, convinced that other available safeguards will provide adequate protection.

The Perfect Storm

"In most major accidents, a recurrent pattern emerges with a cascade of errors, and Bhopal is no exception, presenting a striking list of contributing factors:

1. Financial struggles led to staff and maintenance cutbacks, compromising overall plant safety.

2. A social system that neglected safety culture, fostering tension between management and workers, culminating in intentional sabotage by a disgruntled worker.

3. The impending permanent closure of the plant significantly impacted operator morale, contributing to neglect in maintenance and safety system bypassing.

4. Adverse meteorological conditions played a role, with stable weather and low wind speed allowing the gas cloud to persist over a large section of the city.

5. A glaring lack of an emergency response program or its complete failure.

6. Inadequate treatment of the injured.

Bhopal stands as a tragic "perfect storm" event, and it is unlikely that we will witness another industrial accident of such deadly proportions."

What We Learned

"Bhopal has left an indelible mark on safety culture globally, influencing practices across various industries. Its legacy encompasses now commonplace measures like hazard and operability analysis, management of change, permit to work, and dispersion modeling.

The impact of Bhopal prompted swift actions worldwide, with plants taking immediate measures to restrict the storage and transportation of toxic materials. The likelihood of storing 15,000 gallons of a substance as toxic as MIC has drastically diminished, as the lessons from Bhopal continue to shape and enhance safety standards."

What We Have Not Learned

There were significant problems with the Bhopal plant design. Since then, we have learned to design safer plants. But the plant design played only a small role in the accident, which was caused largely by the failure to operate the plant as the designers intended (e.g., the bypassing of safeguard systems in particular and the violations in adhering to standard operating procedures [SOPs] in general).

UCC recognized the failure to follow SOPs as a root cause and launched a corporatewide program to update SOPs and instill a culture of using them effectively. In the years since, the airline industry has learned to make the following of SOPs a priority, resulting in improvements in the safety of air travel—a lesson that the oil and gas industry has yet to learn.

Scaffolding – Hazards, Safety Precautions, Types, Components – A Complete Guide

Scaffolding – Hazards, Safety Precautions, Types, Components – A Complete Guide

Scaffolding is an essential tool for construction and maintenance activities that require working at heights. A scaffold is a temporary platform that supports workers, tools, and materials during construction, repair, or maintenance tasks. However, scaffolding can be hazardous if not used properly. In this article, we will discuss the hazards of scaffolding, the precautions required to ensure safety, types of scaffolding, scaffolding components, and work-at-height safety.

**Table of Contents**

**1. What is Scaffolding?**

  

**2. Scaffolding Components**

**3. Hazards of Scaffolding:**

   - 1. Unsecured ladder slipping

   - 2. Use of unsuitable, damaged, and faulty materials

   - 3. Inadequately supported scaffold boards

   - 4. Omission/removal of guard rails

   - 5. Not properly tie-in/braced

   - 6. Overloading of platform and board

**4. General Safety Precautions for Scaffolding:**

   - 1. A competent third-party certified person is allowed for scaffolding job

   - 2. Cold work permit is required

   - 3. Employees shall use chin straps, leather gloves, and safety harness full time

   - 4. Tools and spanners shall be secured with the body

   - 5. Area shall be barricaded, and signboards shall be displayed

   - 6. Non-sparking tools shall be used in a hazardous area

   - 7. Materials, clamps shall not drop or through

   - 8. Leather bags shall be used for shifting

   - 9. While erection and modifications, red tag shall be displayed at a height equal to eye level

   - 10. If height exceeds the ratio, additional tie-in with nearby existing structure shall be given

   - 11. Job shall be suspended in case of heavy wind more than 65kmph and rain

   - 12. Dismantling starts from the top

   - 13. Scaffolding tag shall be renewed after one week, and a checklist shall be maintained

   - 14. Ladder shall be raised at least one meter above the landing platform and should be secure at three locations

   - 15. Properly train workers

   - 16. Use safety harnesses

   - 17. Keep the workplace clean

   - 18. Loose materials and clamps should not be kept unattended on the working platform

   - 19. Risk assessment is required if wind speed is more than 50kmph

   - 20. Mobile scaffold casters (wheels)

   - 21. Gin wheel (pulley and rope)

**5. General Safety Precautions for Ladder Safety:**

   - 1. Ladder should be of industrial type

   - 2. Use the right type of ladder for the job

   - 3. Inspect the ladder for defects and damage before use

   - 4. Independent ladder shall be tagged

   - 5. Ladder shall be positioned at a 75-degree angle

   - 6. Ladder shall be secured with clamps at three locations

   - 7. Only one person shall climb at a time and face the ladder during up and down

   - 8. Do not carry tools and materials while climbing

   - 9. Metal ladder shall not be used for electrical works

**6. Types of Scaffolding**

   - 1. Independent Tied Scaffolding

   - 2. Stationary Scaffolding

   - 3. Mobile Scaffolding

   - 4. Cantilever/Suspended Scaffolding

**7. Ratios of Scaffolding**

**8. Best Practices for Working at Height

What is Scaffolding?

Scaffolding is a temporary structure that is erected to provide a safe working platform for workers to carry out their tasks at heights. Scaffolds are commonly used in construction, maintenance, and repair activities. They are typically made of steel or aluminum and consist of different components that work together to form a safe and secure working platform.

Scaffolding Components

Scaffolding is comprised of various components designed to collaboratively establish a safe and stable working environment. The key components include:

1. Sole Plate: A plate that evenly distributes the scaffold load onto the ground.

2. Base Plate: Sits on the sole plate, providing support for the vertical standards of the scaffold.

3. Standards: Vertical tubes supporting horizontal ledgers and the working platform.

4. Ledgers: Horizontal tubes connecting the standards.

5. Bracing: Diagonal tubes ensuring stability to the scaffold structure.

6. Decking: The working platform resting on the ledgers.

7. Guard Rails (Hand Rails and Mid-Rails): Rails preventing workers from falling; should be at least 1 meter in height.

8. Toe Board: A board preventing tools and materials from falling; should be at least 6 inches in height.

9. Clamps:  Used to connect different scaffold components; standard clamps include EN-74 and BS-15.

10. Ladder:  Provides access to the working platform and should be secured at three locations.

11. Tags: Green or red tags indicating scaffold status; renewal required after one week.

Hazards of Scaffolding:

Scaffolding is one of the most dangerous activities in construction and can lead to serious injuries or fatalities if not done correctly. The most common hazards associated with scaffolding include:

1. Unsecured ladder slipping:

Workers may slip while climbing a ladder, especially if the ladder is not secured correctly. This can cause serious injuries or even death.

2. Use of unsuitable, damage and faulty materials:

Scaffolding must be constructed using suitable materials and checked regularly to ensure it is in good condition. Faulty or damaged materials can cause the structure to collapse, leading to serious injuries or fatalities.

3. Inadequately supported scaffold boards

Scaffold boards must be properly supported to avoid the risk of collapse. If they are not supported correctly, workers can fall from height, causing serious injuries or fatalities.

4. Omission/removal of guard rails

Guard rails are essential in preventing falls from height. If they are omitted or removed, workers are at risk of falling from the scaffolding.

5. Not proper tie-in/braced

Scaffolding must be properly tied-in and braced to prevent it from toppling over. Failure to do so can cause serious injuries or fatalities.

6. Overloading of platform and board

Overloading of the scaffold platform and boards can cause the structure to collapse, leading to serious injuries or fatalities.

General Safety Precautions for Scaffolding:

1. A competent third-party certified person is allowed for scaffolding job:

It is important to hire a competent person who is certified by a third-party to do scaffolding work. A certified person will have the knowledge and experience to erect and dismantle the scaffold properly, ensuring the safety of workers.

2. Cold work permit is required:

Before starting the scaffolding work, a cold work permit is required. This permit ensures that all necessary precautions are taken to avoid accidents and injuries.

Ladders used for scaffolding work should be raised at least one meter above the landing platform and should be secure at three locations to prevent accidents.

14. Properly train workers:

It’s important to provide proper training to workers before allowing them to work on scaffolding. Workers should be trained to recognize the hazards associated with scaffolding work, including the dangers of falling, the risks associated with using power tools, and the need for proper safety gear.

15. Use safety harnesses

Workers should wear safety harnesses when working on scaffolding, especially when working at heights greater than 1.8 meters. The safety harness should be securely anchored to a suitable point, and workers should be trained to use the harness properly.

16. Keep the workplace clean

Cluttered or poorly maintained work areas can increase the risk of accidents, so it’s important to keep the workplace clean and free of obstacles. Workers should also be trained to recognize the hazards of a cluttered work area and encouraged to maintain a tidy workspace.

17. Loose materials and clamps should not be kept unattended on the working platform.

Loose materials and clamps can fall and cause serious injuries to the workers below. All materials should be secured and properly stored in designated areas.

18. Risk assessment is required if wind speed is more than 50kmph

The scaffolding structure can become unstable and pose a significant risk to workers in case of strong winds. It is important to assess the risk and take necessary measures to ensure safety.

19. Mobile scaffold casters (wheels)

Mobile scaffold casters (wheels) diameter should be 5 inches (12.7cm) and swivel lock required. This will ensure the scaffold remains stable and secure during movement.

20. Gin wheel (pulley and rope)

Gin wheel (pulley and rope) should be used for light material lifting. Heavy materials should be lifted using a hoist or crane. This will prevent strain and injury to workers who are manually lifting materials.

General Safety Precautions for Ladder Safety:

Ladders are essential tools used in construction, maintenance, and other industrial jobs. To ensure safety while using ladders, follow these general safety precautions:

1. Ladder should be of industrial type

Industrial ladders are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use in a workplace environment.

2. Use the right type of ladder for the job:

Different jobs require different types of ladders. Always select the right ladder for the job to ensure safety.

3. Inspect the ladder for defect and damage before use:

Before using a ladder, always inspect it for any defects, cracks, or damages. If any are found, the ladder should not be used until it is repaired.

4. Independent ladder shall be tagged:

Independent ladders should be tagged with the date of inspection and the name of the inspector. The validity of the tag should be for a month.

5. Ladder shall be positioned at 75-degree angle:

Ladders should be positioned at a 75-degree angle from the ground to ensure stability and safety.

6. Ladder shall be secured with clamps at 3 locations:

Ladders should be secured with clamps at three locations to prevent slipping and sliding.

6. Only one person shall climb at a time and face the ladder during up and down:

Only one person should climb the ladder at a time, and they should always face the ladder during ascent and descent.

7. Do not carry tools and materials while climbing

Carrying tools and materials while climbing can cause the ladder to become unbalanced and lead to falls.

8. Metal ladder shall not be used for electrical works:

Metal ladders should not be used for electrical work as they conduct electricity and can cause electrocution.

Types of Scaffolding

There are different types of scaffolding, and each type is used based on the construction needs and job requirements. Here are the most common types of scaffolding:

1. Independent Tied Scaffolding:

This type of scaffolding is built independently and tied to a building or structure for stability. The independent tied scaffolding is further categorized into light-duty, medium-duty, and heavy-duty scaffolding based on the weight it can hold.

2. Stationary Scaffolding:

Stationary scaffolding is fixed to the ground and used for construction work that does not require mobility. The height of the stationary scaffolding shall not exceed 18.3 meters (60 feet) and shall not exceed four times the minimum base ratio.

3. Mobile Scaffolding:

Mobile scaffolding is a type of scaffolding that can be moved from one place to another. The height of the mobile scaffold shall not exceed 12.2 meters (40 feet), and the ratio should be 1:3 (1 base and 3 height). It consists of castor wheels and a single working platform. The caster wheel shall be a minimum of 12.7 cm (5-inch) diameter with rubber types and should be locked while using.

4. Cantilever/Suspended Scaffolding:

This type of scaffolding is used when it is impractical or impossible to erect a standard scaffold on the ground or other surfaces. Rakers (bottom diagonal one for every standard) shall be used, and the angle of rackers shall not be greater than 35 degrees.

Ratios of Scaffolding

It is essential to use the correct ratio of scaffolding to ensure that it is safe and stable. Here are the ratios for mobile and tower scaffolding:

1)Mobile Scaffold: The ratio of mobile scaffold should be 1:3, which means one base for every three heights. It should not exceed 12.2 meters (40 feet) and must consist of caster wheels and a single working platform. The caster wheels should be at least 12.7 cm (5 inches) in diameter, made of rubber, and have locks.

2)Tower Scaffold: The ratio of tower scaffold should be 1:4, which means one base for every four heights. The height should not exceed 18.3 meters (60 feet), and it should not exceed four times the minimum base ratio.

Best Practices for Working at Height

Working at height poses inherent risks, demanding strict adherence to best practices for the prevention of falls and other hazards. Follow these guidelines:

1. Keep the workplace clear of obstacles and clutter.

2. Maintain a clean and dry walking surface.

3. Block or barricade areas during floor cleaning.

4. Address spills promptly or cordon off the affected area.

5. Immediately report surface hazards.

6. Avoid running cables or cords on walkways.

7. Use ladders with proper safety precautions.

8. Ensure scaffolds are erected by a competent person and implement a tagging system.

9. Wear appropriate footwear for added traction.

10. Maintain adequate illumination in the work area.

11. Refrain from jumping from elevated surfaces.

12. Cover and barricade floor openings.

13. Avoid engaging in horseplay.

14. Utilize a safety harness when working at heights exceeding 1.8 meters.

All about Hazard identification & Risk Assessment ( HIRA)

Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment (HIRA)

What is HIRA?

HIRA, or Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment, is a systematic approach aimed at evaluating potential hazards and associated risks. In the context of safety, HIRA helps define objectives related to identified hazards and provides techniques for effective risk management.

What is a HIRA risk?

A HIRA risk involves a comprehensive process that includes hazard assessment, risk examination, and risk estimation. This method identifies potential hazards within a process or system that could lead to significant accidents, injuries, or environmental harm.

Upon identifying a hazard, the HIRA team evaluates both its severity and likelihood. Severity measures the potential consequences, such as the number of potential injuries or the intensity of potential damage. Likelihood assesses the probability of the hazard occurring.

The HIRA team then formulates recommendations to mitigate the risk. This may include eliminating the hazard entirely, reducing the likelihood of its occurrence, or minimizing the severity of potential consequences.

HIRA risks can be classified into different categories, such as:

1. Process Risks: These pertain to hazards inherent in the process, such as the potential for fire or explosion.

2. Equipment Risks: These involve hazards linked to the equipment utilized in the process, encompassing the risk of equipment failure.

3. Human Factors Risks: These are associated with the potential for human error, including the risk of mistakes made by workers.

Why HIRA is important?

Through risk identification and assessment, HIRA plays a crucial role in minimizing the probability and impact of significant accidents, injuries, and environmental harm. Its key functions include:

1. Identifying all potential factors posing harm to workers.

2. Determining incident probabilities and analyzing their potential severity.

3. Identifying and evaluating existing safeguards and controls.

4. Assessing safety risks to ensure they align with acceptable limits.

5. Providing recommendations to mitigate the likelihood of hazards.

HIRA and HAZOP

HIRA (Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment) and HAZOP (Hazard and Operability Study) are both integral techniques in process safety.

HIRA serves as a structured method for detecting and evaluating hazards within process facilities/systems, identifying potential risks leading to accidents, injuries, or environmental damage. It offers a simple yet effective approach applicable across various operations.

On the other hand, HAZOP takes a more comprehensive and rigorous stance. Utilizing guidewords, the HAZOP team identifies potential deviations from planned designs or operations, analyzes their severity and likelihood, and proposes mitigation solutions. Though more intricate and time-consuming than HIRA, HAZOP is thorough and effective.

Combining HIRA and HAZOP data allows for the development of a comprehensive risk management plan, encompassing hazard identification, risk analysis, and mitigation recommendations. This integrated approach enhances the safety of process facilities, mitigating the risk of major accidents, injuries, and environmental damage.

How many types of HIRA are there?

There are three types of risk assessments: Baseline Risk Assessments, Issue-Based Risk Assessments, and Continuous Risk Assessments.

Baseline Risk Assessments:

Conducted to identify risks for the first time, this assessment highlights specific aspects or issues. Regular reviews are essential to maintain an up-to-date baseline profile, reducing safety risks identified through HIRA in an organization.

Issue-Based Risk Assessments:

Triggered by highlighted aspects or issues, the Issue-Based Risk Assessment responds to factors like new processes, installation of machinery, or ongoing hazard assessments within an organization.

Continuous Risk Assessments:

Integrated into routine inspections and observations, continuous risk assessments are ongoing processes that contribute to the organization's risk management efforts.

What are the 3 Phases of HIRA ?

Phase 1: Identification of Hazards

During this stage, all potential incidents are meticulously identified and cataloged. A comprehensive approach involves field visits and a thorough examination of procedures related to operations. Input documents such as drawings and process write-ups are crucial in pinpointing hazards.

Phase 2: HIRA Risk Assessment

Inputs Required

The effectiveness of HIRA is closely tied to the availability and accuracy of input data. Complete input data enhances confidence in the validity and robustness of results. Data collection examples may include operational specifics, building design details, and personnel/population occupancy levels.

Risk Assessment Methodology

HIRA Risk Assessment serves as a critical tool for risk management and safety enhancement across various industries. Offering a quantitative evaluation of potential risks, it establishes a foundation for assessing process safety against predefined risk acceptance criteria.

The study method integrates identification, analysis, and brainstorming around identified hazards, structured into four main sections encompassing various categories:

1. Section 1: External and Environmental Hazards

2. Section 2: Facility Hazards

3. Section 3: Health Hazards

4. Section 4: Assessment of Risks to People, Assets/Production, and the Environment

Phase 3: Elimination of the Risk

Known hazards are listed and assessed within a risk matrix to determine their significance. Safeguarding controls/measures are outlined based on risk rankings, and recommendations are provided to prevent or eliminate potential hazards. The accompanying risk matrix is included in the study.

Hazard Likelihood rating

Hazard Severity Rating

Risk Matrix

Risk Rating

LSIR (Location specific Individual risk)

Location-Specific Individual Risk (LSIR) represents the risk for an imaginary individual situated at a specific location for 24 hours daily, 365 days a year. LSIR criteria play a pivotal role in shaping long-term industrial land use planning and development overviews. This individual risk is directly obtained from risk software, providing LSIR values expressed in the unit of Individual/Societal Risk Frequency per year.

What are the main 5 risk assessment stages?

1. Defining the scope of risk assessment.

2. Identifying the required resources.

3. Selecting the appropriate type of risk analysis measures.

4. Identifying key stakeholders involved.

5. Identifying relevant regulations or standards in accordance with organizational policies.

Tragic incident on Ulwe-Uran road: One fatality and three injuries as an SUV collides with a two-wheeler and subsequently strikes a truck driver.

The SUV initially collided with the Mukadam brothers on their two-wheeler. Rohan Mahendra Mukadam, 26, a resident of Belapur Koliwada, wearing a helmet, avoided head injuries, unlike his brother Sarvesh, 28.

By - safetywalebhaiya

Nov 27, 2023 08:44 PM IST

Tragedy in Navi Mumbai: A 39-year-old truck driver lost his life, and three others suffered severe injuries on Thursday night. The incident occurred on Ulwe-Uran road when a 20-year-old driver in an SUV collided with a two-wheeler and fatally struck the truck driver who had alighted from his vehicle.

Tragedy in Navi Mumbai: One fatality and three severe injuries occurred when a Hyundai Creta attempting to overtake collided with a stationary dumper in Ulwe on Friday.

Siddharth Vishwanath Dere, 20, identified as the driver of the Hyundai Creta, was heading from Ulwe to Seawoods when the accident occurred.

The SUV initially collided with the Mukadam brothers on their two-wheeler. Rohan Mahendra Mukadam, 26, of Belapur Koliwada, wearing a helmet, avoided head injuries. However, his brother Sarvesh, 28, riding pillion without a helmet, suffered serious head injuries in the fall.

Subsequently, the vehicle struck Pramod Singh, 39, a Uttar Pradesh resident who had alighted from his truck. Singh tragically lost his life on the spot. The SUV then collided with a roadside barricade before coming to a halt. All involved, including Dere, the Mukadam brothers, and Singh, were promptly taken to the hospital.

While Singh was pronounced dead, the Mukadam brothers and Dere are currently receiving medical care. According to the police, Dere, who is a college student and the sole son in his family, was tested and found not to be under the influence while driving. The authorities are in the process of retrieving CCTV footage from the accident site and the Ulwe stretch to determine the sequence of events and ascertain if speeding was a factor. Police sub-inspector Nivas Shinde from NRI police station mentioned, "He had lost his father during the Covid-19 pandemic, and his mother was traumatized after the accident."

Dere, in critical condition and undergoing treatment at a private hospital, has been charged by the police under sections 304 A (causing death by negligence), 279 (rash driving), 337 (causing hurt by an act endangering the life or personal safety of others), 338 (causing grievous hurt by an act endangering the life or personal safety of others), and 427 (mischief) of the IPC, along with sections under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.

Tragedy Strikes Cochin University Tech Fest: Four Students Lose Lives, More Than 60 Injured in Stampede.

Two Critically Injured as Hundreds Surge into Packed Auditorium at Cochin University Tech Fest, Resulting in Stampede.

November 25, 2023 09:11 pm | Updated 11:03 pm IST - KOCHI

Safetywalebhaiya 

Tragedy Strikes Cochin University Tech Fest Conclusion: Four Students Killed, 61 Injured in Auditorium Stampede. The incident, just before a concert by singer Nikhita Gandhi, occurred around 7:30 p.m. as heavy rain prompted hundreds waiting outside to surge into the packed auditorium. Two seriously injured, with four fatalities confirmed by Government Medical College Hospital, Ernakulam. Forty-six admitted to MCH, and 15 to Kinder Hospital.

The site of the stampede at the Cochin University of Science and Technology in Kochi on November 25, 2023. The stampede claimed at least four lives and left several others injured. 

Auditorium Packed Before Music Show: Eyewitnesses describe unaware rush into students. An emergency Cabinet meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, takes place in Kozhikode. Ministers P. Rajeeve and R. Bindu head to Kochi. Health Minister Veena George assures medical support at MCH and General Hospital. University authorities express lack of anticipation for the large crowd, citing students from other institutions. The locked entrance gate couldn't contain the surge, leading to a tragic incident amid the sudden downpour. Appeals to refrain from rushing into the auditorium went unheard.