APPCB Chairman tells industries to ensure compliance with safety protocols

Two safety in-charges died and one person sustained injuries in an alleged gas leak at Sai Sreyas Pharmaceuticals Private Limited in JN Pharma City at Thanam village on June 12. File photo
| Photo Credit: BY ARRANGEMENT

Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) Chairman P. Krishnaiah on Saturday inspected M/s. Sai Sreyas Pharmaceuticals Private Limited in JN Pharma City at Thanam village in Parawada Mandal of Anakapalli district, where two safety in-charges died and one person sustained injuries in an alleged gas leak on June 12.

The plant head briefed Mr. Krishnaiah about the incident. He said that safety in-charges, who were on duty at the time of the incident, had not followed the SOP for neutralisation process of effluents such as wearing masks, operation of scrubber, etc. The safety in-charges inhaled toxic fumes containing hydrogen sulfide gas in high concentrations, causing their death. Further investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the incident and to evaluate compliance with safety protocols.

Later, Mr. Krishnaiah interacted with the representatives of chemical and bulk drug industries, as well as with the members of industry associations and key stakeholder departments in Parawada. The meeting was attended by the officials from APPCB, Department of Factories, Fire, APIIC and police.

During the meeting, Mr. Krishnaiah expressed concerns over the frequent industrial accidents reported from the region. He emphasised the need for all industries to prioritise safety and environmental responsibility.

He urged the industrial units to conduct regular safety audits, mock drills, provide PPEs to staff, organise training in updated safety protocols for workers, including behavioural and process safety, instal modern environmental and safety infrastructure.