Safety utmost priority at SMS 3

Bhilai, Jul 27:
Steel Melting Shop 3 (SMS 3) is producing more than 45 heats/day and stabilising its existence as a MODEX unit of SAIL-Bhilai Steel Plant. Also inherent in its functioning is its work culture of Safety first. From basic concept of clear demarcation of areas and equipment with display and sign boards with systematic numbering of columns, installing cross over bridge in Run out roll table and transfer roll table in Billet and despatch yard to setting up anti-collision device in Cranes, numerous measures are being taken to promote a Safe working environment at SMS 3 under the leadership of K Bhattacharjee, CGM (SMS 3) and all Sectional Incharges of SMS-3.
Pushpa Ambrose, GM & DSO (SMS 3) shares that Sample and temperature taking window in BOF and Ladle Furnaces have been provided with chains to prevent burns. Fire safety measures have also been stepped up with commissioning of all fire hydrants, identification of fire emergency routes and proper display showing routes.
To avoid damage due to heat/metal, Rail reinforced concrete encasing has been done at Columns H-14/H-15 & H-16. Rail reinforced concreting at Slag bay floor of SMS 3 has been started in coordination with CED to secure the floor from getting damaged. Reladling pits A & B at SMS 3 have been coated with Special refractory for making it dry. Barricading has also been done at Billet yard to protect persons moving through the yard.
The shop not just ensures Safety of its regular employees, but its contractual employees too. They are guided to wear proper PPEs while working like using rubber/heat-resistant hand gloves and not ordinary gloves while doing welding work. Proper housekeeping is followed and Safety talks at regular intervals are held at the shopfloor for all employees.
Improvised systems like Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) are being used in order to ensure foolproof Electrical shutdowns. A sizeable number of Walkie Talkies have also been issued to streamline communication at the site among employees.
The department also is encouraging workers and employees to report Near Miss cases, so that preventive steps to avert accidents can be taken on time. Those who report Near Miss cases are encouraged and rewarded by SMS 3 department on a regular basis.