As temperatures soar to record levels this summer, ship recycling companies are stepping up their efforts to protect employees from the sweltering heat, argues Rohith Agarwal, Managing Partner at GUIDESHIP CONSULTING SERVICES LLP.
The extreme summer heat, rising absenteeism, and its impact on productivity have prompted these companies to implement a range of measures designed to keep their workers safe and healthy.
Bansal Ship Breakers Private Limited in Alang, India, has introduced several initiatives to ensure that their employees are not adversely affected by the scorching temperatures. These measures include misting and fogging systems, air-conditioned rest areas, distribution of rehydration salts, frequent medical check-ups, and having a doctor on call.
To combat dehydration, we ensure a steady supply of drinking water, water dispensers, and earthen pots at all work areas. We also distribute oral rehydration salts (ORS) water regularly. Our employees are provided with fire-retardant clothing that helps reduce the impact of heat from hot metal in their surrounding areas.
…said a Rubal Bansal, Director of Bansal Ship Breakers.
In addition to looking after their own employees, Bansal Ship Breakers has gone a step further to support the broader community. Recognizing the pressing need for hydration solutions in the Alang Sosiya ship recycling area, the company has donated 3,000 sachets of oral rehydration salts to The Alang Sosiya Ship Recycling & General Workers’ Association (ASSRGWA). Each sachet can be used to prepare one litre of oral rehydration drink, which will be distributed to those in need within the Alang Sosiya ship recycling area.
This generous contribution by Bansal Ship Breakers is aimed at ensuring that not only their employees but also other workers in the region can stay hydrated and healthy during the intense summer months. By providing these ORS sachets, the company is helping to combat the risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses among the broader workforce.
Guideship Consultancy Services has also been proactive in addressing the heat stress faced by workers. Rohith Agarwal, the Chief Officer of Guideship Consultancy Services, has been advising the ship recycling yards consulting with him to implement preventive measures. By monitoring heat stress indices, Agarwal ensures that appropriate actions are taken at various ship recycling yards in Alang. He has strategically advised ship recyclers to install hydration stations across facilities to encourage adequate water intake.
Additionally, Agarwal emphasizes the importance of regular training sessions to equip employees with the knowledge to identify and address heat stress symptoms. “On-site medical teams must be prepared to provide immediate assistance in case of heat-related illnesses,” he said. “It’s crucial that we take these proactive steps to ensure the safety and well-being of workers.”
These proactive measures are crucial as temperatures continue to climb. Companies recognize that maintaining employee health is not only a moral obligation but also essential for sustaining productivity during the intense summer months. The comprehensive approach taken by industry leaders like Bansal Ship Breakers and Guideship Consultancy Services demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding their workforce against the challenges posed by extreme heat.
As the mercury rises, the ship recycling industry is setting an example of how to protect employees and maintain operational efficiency. Through innovation and dedication, these companies are ensuring that their workers remain safe, hydrated, and productive, even in the face of extreme summer conditions.
The views presented hereabove are only those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of SAFETY4SEA and are for information sharing and discussion purposes only.
