HPSEBL ‘Field Staff’ safety: 32 fatalities in three years spark Union outcry
Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet
Shimla, Feb 25,
In the past three and a half years, the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Ltd. (HPSEBL) has witnessed 32 fatal accidents among its field staff, including five outsourced employees. The recent deaths of two employees—one from Hamirpur and another outsourced worker from Shimla—while working on electric supply restoration, underscore the gravity of the situation.
The employees’ union has raised serious concerns over these increasing fatalities and non-fatal mishaps, attributing them to severe staff shortages, inadequate safety measures, and a lack of proper training. Instead of a three-person team, which is the norm for handling maintenance and complaint resolution, single workers are often sent alone, exposing them to extreme risk, informed Hira lal verma, leader of the Union. He said this directly violates the safety guidelines laid out by the HPSEB, which emphasize that employees working on live apparatus should always be accompanied by at least one employee capable of rendering first aid in case of accidental electric shock and calling for immediate assistance.
Another pressing issue he stated is the limited safety training available to technical staff. Adding that, without regular safety seminars, workers remain vulnerable to hazardous conditions. The HPSEB safety manual clearly states that the majority of accidents are preventable if proper precautions are taken, attributing mishaps to factors such as lack of proper instructions, improper tools, and failure to observe safety rules.
Moreover, outsourced workers face additional challenges, as their compensation in case of fatal accidents is shockingly low—just ₹2 lakh. The Union has demanded that the HPSEBL review its policies, ensuring either that outsourced workers are not deployed in high-risk tasks or that they receive fair compensation and social security benefits.
Pertinent to mention that it is high time that the state government and HPSEBL chairman should mandate providing proper safety equipment, insulation materials, and protective gear to field staff.
Safety Manual and its implementation The HPSEB safety manual clearly outlines essential safety protocols designed to protect field staff. It mandates the use of safety devices such as rubber gauntlets, gloves, insulated platforms, and safety belts when working on electrical apparatus and electric supply lines. The manual also stresses the importance of regular inspection and maintenance of these safety devices, with monthly checks for rubber gloves and gauntlets and six-month inspections for other special safety equipment. Despite these clear guidelines, the increasing number of accidents raises questions about their implementation and enforcement in the field.
Additionally, the union has called for the revival and extension of the 2017 HPSEB non-fatal accident policy to include outsourced employees, ensuring that all workers—regular or temporary—receive equal protection and benefits. They emphasize the need for proper supervision and the deployment of adequately trained staff, as outlined in the HPSEB safety manual, which attributes many accidents to inadequate oversight and lack of proper training.
The growing toll of these preventable deaths demands immediate intervention. Strengthening safety protocols, ensuring adequate staffing, and providing comprehensive training programs could be the crucial steps in preventing further loss of life.
Education minister mourns loss of HPSEBL workers
Education Minister Rohit Thakur has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic demise of two HPSEBL employees, Pankesh Kumar (Assistant Lineman) and Sushil Kumar (Maintenance Worker), who lost their lives while repairing high-voltage electricity lines.
The minister acknowledged their dedication and sacrifice, stating that their contributions to ensuring uninterrupted power supply would always be remembered. Extending heartfelt condolences to their families, he assured them of full support from the government.
The minister’s statement comes amid growing concerns over the safety of HPSEBL field staff, with 32 fatal accidents reported in the past three and a half years.
The employees’ union has urged the state government and HPSEBL to take urgent measures, including proper safety equipment, insulation materials, and fair compensation, to prevent further tragedies.
Calling the incident an irreparable loss, Thakur prayed for the peace of the departed souls and strength for their families in this difficult time.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
References:
Lollybet Casino Download http://spanish.myoresearch.com
References:
Lollybet Casino Neukundenbonus board-en.skyrama.com