CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL), Pune, observed this year’s National Safety Week held from 4 March to 10 March 2024. The theme of this programme was “Leadership for Excellence in EHS (Environmental, Health and Safety)”, which aimed to promote a culture of safety consciousness and responsibility within the organisation. On this occasion, Dr Sharad Joshi, Senior Safety Management Consultant, delivered an awareness talk on Safety Management on 8 March 2024.

Throughout the week, CSIR-NCL conducted a series of activities to raise awareness and enhance safety practices among its students and staff. These activities included fire drills, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) displays, safety equipment showcases, safety slogans and poster competitions.

In his welcome address, Dr Ashish Lele, Director, CSIR-NCL, emphasised ‘Safety’ as a value-based component of any organisation. He urged all to imbibe safety practices as a natural responsibility and to be mindful of the possible risks associated with our actions, both within and outside the laboratory.

Adding a creative touch to the event, research scholars, students and staff at CSIR-NCL presented a safety-themed Nukkad Natak, highlighting the significance of safety awareness and the adoption of best practices in laboratory settings. It resonated with the audience, delivering its message engaging and impactfully.

Dr Sharad Joshi delivered an enlightening talk on ‘Safety Management’. Drawing from his experience in safety maintenance, Dr Joshi shared real-life examples of risk mitigation strategies and emphasised the importance of a behaviour-based safety approach in handling workplace hazards. He also introduced the audience to the NFPA’s fire diamond as a valuable tool for identifying material properties and potential hazards. He also encouraged students to explore and pursue safety-related career opportunities.

During the event’s culmination, awards were handed over to best posters, slogans and skit participants. Appreciation awards were also given to labs, staff members, and security personnel who demonstrated timely awareness of handling probable risk-related situations throughout the year.