Caring for construction workers
|
Mfar Constructions has adopted many small measures that may fail to stand out but have made a huge difference to the overall environment in the realty scene, says A. B. SUDHINDRA
|
SOUND ADVICE: Workers of Mfar being briefed about their duties. (Right) A worker gets medical aid
Construction is one of the most hazardous of industries. The problems are plenty and not many companies make an effort to preserve the natural resources or care for the safety of their workers. They think investment made on “green efforts” or providing safe environment for their employees is an unnecessary financial burden.
Here is a company that spends five percent of its total profit on educating and training all employees in Environmental, Occupational Health Safety (EOHS) practices and believes in conserving invaluable resources such as water and power. This is not all; it also ensures that the processes, products and services incorporated in civil construction activities have minimum impact on the environment and cause less EOHS risks.
No surprise
And, when the company received the Golden Peacock Award for Environment Management, instituted by the Institute of Directors, at a recently held convention on Corporate Response to Climate Management organised in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, for incorporating simple, yet practical measures, it was not surprised. “This is one among many prestigious awards that we have won,” says B. K. Dhar, Chief Executive Officer of Mfar Constructions Pvt. Ltd, a company based in Bangalore.
Sprinklers
Mfar has adopted many small measures, which may fail to stand out but have made a huge difference to the overall environment. Things such as using sprinklers instead of pipes for curing as it restricts the wastage of water. Spraying of water to reduce dust pollution; removal of debris through chute; erecting windmills to lift water; usage of metal scaffolding instead of wooden or bamboo; usage of safety nets to safeguard the lives of its employees; setting up solar panels for heating and lighting; usage of power-saving lamps at the camp site…have all added up to protecting the environment and saving of natural resources.
All this at a time when the warnings of global warming, depleting water table, soil pollution, irreplaceable damage to our planet and a host of other issues are getting louder.
“It makes sense for companies like us to take corrective measures and contribute towards saving our environment,” says Mr. Dhar.
Huge savings
“Our initiatives have made a difference. Last year, we have saved 6.15 lakh unit of power, 29,063 cubic feet of wood and paper worth over Rs. 4 lakh,” says H. S. Chana, Chief Coordinating Officer. The company is aware about its responsibility towards the society, the environment and the people who work for it (labourers, who are referred to as workers).
All personnel compulsorily attend daily toolbox meetings, wherein the safety measures to be taken on that particular day are discussed in detail.
The continuous training programme covers a wide range of activities that include procedures in civil construction, handling of tools, machine operation, storage, usage and disposal of materials, and personal protective equipment.
Risk assessment
A continuous risk minimisation assessment is done that will either remove or reduce the likelihood and impact of an onsite hazard. “The company’s vision is not only to apply innovative techniques and best construction practices for providing cost-effective and safe solutions to all the construction problems but also take adequate measures to protect and preserve the environment,” adds Mr. Dhar.
Useful measures
Disposal of waste such as used oil, used waste cotton, batteries etc. through registered recyclers.
Disposal of sewage waste and garbage through government agencies.
No plastic permitted at the project site.
Secondary container to prevent spillage.
Disposal of bio-medical waste as per rules.
Noise control.
Warning signages at all strategic points.
Isolation of noisy activities.
Rotation of workers.
Provision of mufflers/silencers.
Provision of acoustic enclosures.
Printer friendly
page
Send this article to Friends by
E-Mail
Property Plus
Bangalore
Chennai
Hyderabad
Kochi
Thiruvananthapuram
