In light of recent industrial accidents in the state, the Andhra Pradesh government has notified fresh safety guidelines to institutionalise preventive measures to check accidental leakage of toxic gases and dangerous chemicals in factories.

Madireddy Pratap, Director General of AP Disaster Response and Fire Services (DRFS), said the new guidelines issued under the AP Fire Service Act, 1999, would go a long way in averting accidents in industrial units.

“Democratic checks and balances resulting from public disclosure will go a long way in preventing major disasters,” Pratap pointed out. Periodic mock drills and community awareness programmes are some of the preventive measures that are now being mandated for industrial units.

Under Section 14(1) of the Act, all companies and industries, including ports, which store or process any toxic, hazardous or explosive chemicals are required to disclose that information every three months. That will enable the first responders — police, fire services and health personnel — to conduct joint mock drills and also create awareness among the local communities on the likely hazards and possible preventive measures, according to the DG.

“Any violation of the minimum safety provisions will attract prosecution not only under AP Fire Service Act but also under the Indian Penal Code,” the DG warned.