10-point safety guidelines issued for cracker manufacturers

Prayagraj: Fire department officials have issued a 10-point fire safety guideline that is mandatory for stockists and manufacturers who have a licence for firecracker production, storage, and transportation ahead of Diwali.
Chief Fire Officer (Prayagraj) RK Pandey told TOI, "Eight teams have been constituted to check the manufacturing, storage, and transportation of firecrackers in the district with the strict implementation that production of firecrackers will be made as per the set norms at the determined \ fixed area only."
He added, "There will be no entry of unauthorised persons, kids, elderly, and ill people into the determined firecrackers manufacturing unit, and no one would be allowed to smoke on the premises."
Pandey, meanwhile, said, "Licensed vendors have been strictly advised to store manufactured crackers from the manufacturing sites." The fact was that vendors involved in the manufacturing of firecrackers were asked to make a temporary mud wall around the manufacturing sites and take all preventive measures.
"Police teams have also been asked to strictly check the vehicles engaged in the transportation of firecrackers, and all vehicles must have installed firefighting equipment and arrangements," said the CFO, adding, "No public transportation mode like passenger buses, tempos, and autos will be used for the transportation of firecrackers," he added.
The district fire department authorities have launched a special drive at firecracker manufacturing units located in Naini, Mauaima, Soraon, Meja, and other areas aimed at preventing explosions in firecracker factories and warehouses.
In light of the recent incidents reported in different districts of the state, senior cops have directed all SSP/SPs, ACPs/DSPs, and SHO/SOs across the region to prioritise safety. Moreover, a joint team comprising the area SDM, SHO, and fire services are also asked to inspect all licensed firecracker factories at frequent intervals. The inspection will be videographed to ensure accountability, with cross-verification by ASP and ADM.
Special attention has been laid to reviewing preparedness for fire accidents, especially those involving chemical fires. Precautions and plans will be thoroughly checked. Inspections will focus on examining safety measures taken by workers and managers during emergencies, and appropriate actions will be taken based on the findings," officials said.
Adequate firefighting equipment must be ensured at all storage and sales locations for fireworks. During inspections, if a child labourer is found, immediate and strict action will be taken against the violators," said cops. Moreover, confidential intelligence regarding unauthorised factories, storage, and illegal sale or transportation of firecrackers will be gathered by revenue officials, local police, and intelligence units.
Firecracker storage and sales must take place only in licensed or permitted locations. Any violations will be met with strict legal action," said a senior cop. Firework sales points should be clearly marked and located at a safe distance from residential areas and busy markets to avoid potential hazards.