Why in News : A chemical reactor explosion at Sigachi Industries, Telangana, killed 40 workers, exposing serious lapses in industrial safety and workers’ rights enforcement in India.
Causes of Industrial Accidents
- Negligence in safety protocols – outdated equipment, overloading, lack of alarms or trained personnel.
- Poor regulatory oversight – minimal inspections and absence of safety officers.
- Informal and unregistered workers – no records, no insurance, or safety coverage.
- Cost-cutting by employers – prioritizing profit over worker safety.
- Weak accountability – lack of criminal liability for preventable deaths.
ILO’s Stand on Industrial Safety
1. ILO confirms accidents are rarely random but result from systemic neglect.
2. Employers cut corners to reduce costs, underinvesting in maintenance and training.
3. Human error argument invalid – true cause lies in unsafe work environments.
4. Advocates for decent work conditions and shorter hours to ensure safety.
5. Calls for state enforcement and criminal accountability of employers.
Legal Framework in India
- Factories Act, 1948 – regulates safety, working hours, and welfare measures.
- Workmen’s Compensation Act, 1923 and ESI Act, 1948 – provide compensation and insurance.
- Amendments (1976, 1987) post-Bhopal tragedy strengthened safety norms.
- Occupational Safety, Health & Working Conditions Code, 2020 – consolidates labour laws but dilutes enforcement.
- Self-certification and inspection weakening undermine workers’ statutory rights.
Way Forward
1. Reinstate independent inspections and enforce penalties for violations.
2. Ensure criminal liability for preventable industrial deaths.
3. Mandate registration of all workers, including contract labour.
4. Treat workplace safety as a fundamental labour right, not discretion.
5. Promote “Safe Workplaces = Productive Workplaces” as a national ethos.
UPSC Relevance
GS Paper III – Economy / Disaster Management:
- Industrial safety standards and accident prevention mechanisms.
Mains Practice Question
Q1. Industrial accidents in India expose the erosion of workers’ rights and weak enforcement of safety laws. Examine the causes and suggest measures to ensure workplace safety. (250 words)
