RINL Conducts Emergency Mock Drill to Enhance Preparedness and Safety Measures

Key emergency response tools, such as fixed and mobile firefighting installations, water curtain systems, and first aid and rescue equipment, were effectively deployed during the exercise.

On September 23, 2024, Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL), the corporate entity of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, conducted a plant-level on-site emergency mock drill to evaluate emergency preparedness and ensure the safety of employees and assets. The drill simulated a scenario involving a liquid nitrogen leak from the Liquid Nitrogen Tank at Air Separation Plant-1, where two personnel were affected by cold burns and asphyxiation during maintenance activities. Upon hearing alarm cries from employees, the incident controller promptly initiated emergency response procedures.

The drill showcased the coordinated efforts of various teams at RINL, including Utilities Department personnel, CISF Fire and Security, Medical Services, Gas Safety, Environment Management, Safety Department, HR, and Instrumentation, all working together to manage the crisis and rescue the victims.

Key emergency response tools, such as fixed and mobile firefighting installations, water curtain systems, and first aid and rescue equipment, were effectively deployed during the exercise. CISF personnel conducted rescue operations using Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and other emergency response devices to safely extract the affected individuals. The mock drill was observed by Shri V. Suresh, Deputy Chief Inspector of Factories, Government of Andhra Pradesh, alongside other officials, including Smt. Swapna Latha, Deputy Electrical Inspector, and Smt. Sri Lakshmi, Assistant Environmental Engineer from the AP Pollution Control Board.

Senior RINL officials, including Sri Pravin Kumar, CGM (Safety, Mines & Contracts), and Shri Uttam Brahma, GM (Energy, Environment, & Utilities), were also in attendance. Shri V. Suresh praised RINL's commitment to employee training and demonstrated preparedness during emergencies. The mock drill highlighted the importance of effective emergency response strategies and the collaborative efforts of all departments involved. Additionally, officials from M/s Hinduja Power Plant, RINL's mutual aid partners, were present to observe the drill, emphasizing the significance of industry partnerships in emergency preparedness.