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Price 150/- | April 2015 | Vol. 01 | Issue 07
the complete
magazine on HSE
How
safe
is
flying
stay
healthy
in
summer
how
to beat
urban
heat
Safety Messenger | April 2015
1
contents
08
46
72
20
63
Cover story
India’s Aviation Safety Needs Urgent Updating
T. Mohan Chandran………………….....................……Page 8
Making Flying Safer
John Ebanazer…………………….........................….Page 13
Jumbo Job That’s Air Traffic Management
S. Swaminathan……………...............................…….Page 34
4
Drinking water through Desalination
ENVIRONMENT
Dr. A N Brijesh Nair ……......................................Page 67
How to Beat Urban Heat?
Stay Healthy this summer………..............…Page 78
Major Countries to sign Global Pact…............. Page 91
Kavitha Nambiar…………...................................…..Page 82
Tech Impact on Pilot Role
HSE TRAINING
Profile
Pilots at High Risk of Skin Cancer ……........... Page 92
Captain Anant Kulkarni………………….............…….Page 39
Management of Contractors
Into New Horizons on the Wings of Safety
Products
Safety
Jayas Manadath……………………...............……..Page 52
…..................................................................….. Page 72
Rescue Laser Light…...........................................Page 94
Robotic Role in Construction
Health
Safety News
Revere Aero Compact Liferaft for Aviation…...Page 95
Vipin Sasidharan…………......................................….Page 20
Asthma can be Dangerous
German wings crash, Shocking Revelations
SPOT Trace …...................................................…Page 96
Make Official Travel Safe
Dr. Rajesh..................................................................Page 27
……………................................................…….Page 88
Gator Kneeboard for Tablets and iPad Mini.….Page 96
C. Mahadevan…….............................................……..Page 46
Managing Asthma with Homeopathy
Condom Use up Worldwide…..........................…..Page 58
Dr. T.M Manju………............................…………….Page 31
Secutech India 2015 Concludes with
Record Turnout….............................................Page 89
YUNEEC Q500 Typhoon RTF with
CGO2-GB Camera….............................................Page 97
Guardian Angels of the Skies
Breast Cancer Rates Soaring in India
Rhea George…...................................................……..Page 42
Dr. Mohanan Nair….…..............................................Page 63
Aviation Sector Pins hope on
‘Make in India’ Campaign…...........................Page 90
HSE Conferences ….....................….. Page 77
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
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EDITORIAL
Subscription Form
Consulting Editor : Jose Philip
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Air travel is considered to be the safest, but, if
something untoward happens, it is the deadliest.
Hence, we cannot take aviation safety for granted,
especially in the backdrop of some of the recent
mishaps, including the mysterious disappearance
of the Malaysian Airlines flight (MH370) in March
2014 and the crash of the Air Asia flight QZ8501 in
the Java Sea in December 2014.
The cause of the Air Asia flight crashing into the
sea is still to be ascertained, with inclement weather
currently suspected to have been responsible, but
questions are now being raised as to whether Asia’s
rapidly expanding airlines are going easy on safety
regulations in order to cater to the growing demand
for flights.
In the case of the crash of an Air-India flight in
Mangalore in 2010, pilot error is also suspected to
be a cause. The Serbian pilot failed to act on his
co-pilot’s warnings. The disappearance of Malaysia
Airlines MH370 is also suspected to be the result of
the pilot’s actions.
It has been pointed out by aviation experts that
most Asian countries do not have sufficient number
of schools to provide airlines with pilots, and the
airlines have no alternative other than turning to
expatriate pilots from Europe and the US. This opens
the possibility for greater error. The integration of
diverse cockpit crew is often a ‘big management
challenge,’ according to experts.
Even more disturbing is the present plight of
India. The bad news is that, in March 2014, the US
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) downgraded
India’s aviation safety rating, citing lack of safety
standards, which means that Indian carriers cannot
increase flights to the United States and will have
to face extra checks for the existing ones. The
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6
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Aviation safety:
Let’s not take it for granted
Safety Messenger | April 2015
American aviation regulator conducted a fresh
safety audit of DGCA from December 8, 2014. The
result of this will determine India’s safety rating, after
having downgraded it from the top Category-I to
Category-II.
All this points to the fact that all is not well with
aviation safety, especially in the case of Asia in
general and countries like India in particular. The
amazing increase in the number of private players
in the field and increasing preference of people
for air travel is putting more pressure on aviation
safety. Moreover, the advent of the most advanced
technologies is making the pilot very subservient to
the automatic systems available in the cockpit for
easy navigation rather than his skills and personal
judgement.
The global aviation sector has been witnessing
drastic and fast-paced changes of late with the
advent of new concepts and technology innovations,
e-commerce, and open-sky policy. However, the
alarming reality is that while the new concepts and
technological advancements are being adopted by
prominent international regulatory authorities, they
do not find a place in our country. It is high time we
changed for the better.
We have made all efforts to give you in-depth
articles from eminent and experienced aviation
professionals like Mr Mohan Chandran in the current
issue of Safety Messenger. We look forward to your
critical comments.
M.V. Thomas
Chief Editor.
7
Cover Story
Cover Story
Making Flying
Safer
13
INDIA’S AVIATION
SAFETY NEEDS
URGENT UPDATING
Tough Challenges
in Air Traffic
Management
35
Tech Impact
on
Pilot Role
39
The global aviation sector is witnessing drastic and fast-paced changes
of late with the advent of new concepts and technology innovations,
e-commerce, and open-sky policy. However, the alarming reality is
that while the new concepts and technological advancements are
being adopted by prominent international regulatory authorities, they
do not find a place in India. T. Mohan Chandran, Aviation consultant
and advisor establishes that it is high time that we changed for the
better.
T
he aviation professionals may work in
different domains but the objective is
common one, that is, to facilitate safe,
efficient and economic aircraft operations
(landing and takeoff). This can only be achieved
with well-defined rules and regulations and effective
supervision by the responsible authority. Regulatory
authority is the backbone of the aviation industry
and its efficiency and effectiveness in delivering can
only ensure enhancement in operational standards
and flight safety.
Aviation business requires huge infrastructure,
resource and funds, in addition to the long-term
plan, vision and forecast and analysis capabilities.
The investment by the operator is huge. It is also a
highly regulated industry, and all aviation activities
need approval or clearances by the regulatory
authority. Any delay by the authority would affect the
user economics and survival of professional aviation
business group, but does not affect the officers or
regulatory body. Perhaps, for this reason, it is given
the least importance. The function of the regulatory
authority is also, unfortunately, not well-understood
by the governing body and the decision-makers,
which has led to frequent changes in the top post
at the regulatory authority, and the aviation and
standards gets affected.
Safety is a mindset
T Mohan Chandran
8
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety is an acceptable level, which is driven by
beliefs. Focus on safety is a mindset and comes
from within. Our culture and mindset is comfortable
with ambiguity and accepts ambiguous systems‎.
Enforcement of standards in an ambiguous/
incomplete system is a big challenge. To overcome
9
this challenge, it is essential that some positive
initiatives are taken to bring about the changes in
the existing systems. As there is always a great
resistance to any change, the initiatives remain
on paper or on hold and never get converted to
actions. No new initiative or concrete development
emerges unless it is self-serving.
Our benchmark of
standards is not
derived from the
mature global aviation
system; hence the level
of standards is not
comparable with that
of advanced countries.
Our benchmark of standards is not derived from
the mature global aviation system; hence the level of
standards is not comparable with that of advanced
countries. The advanced countries in aviation such
as the USA, the UK and the European countries
strive to enhance their standards to improve level
of safety. This is based on application-oriented
industrial research and performance monitoring,
leading to a sustainable aviation business in this
competitive industry and highly evolving and
innovative technology world.
We have been living for years without
understanding what the real standards should
be. We are not willing to accept and go for the
changes to adapt best global standards, which
remains the first challenge. The international civil
aviation community demands enhancement of
the existing safety level by adopting more than
the minimum standards of International Civil
Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and advocating
implementation of new recommendations of
Standards And Recommended Practices (SARPS)
of ICAO, that is Safety Management System (SMS).
We, in India, are still struggling to comply even with
the minimum Standards of ICAO compliance.
Emerging challenges
New concepts and technology innovations,
e-commerce and open-sky policy are changing the
aviation ecosystem. While the new concepts and
technological advancements are being adopted by
 A few of the 22 tires
on the Airbus A380
prominent International regulatory authorities, they
do not find a place in our country. Our regulations
and policies are old and are even now being
changed only on ‘need basis’ (reactive culture) and
not on a regular planned and proactive manner
(proactive culture).
Our regulations are old; some of them are
outdated, and yet there is no separate group or
system within the regulatory authority for research
and analysis, to update or develop them on a
regular basis. There is a visible hesitation or
resistance for change. This has left us far behind the
advanced countries, and new standards reach us
15-20 years after adoption by developed countries.
There is a need to address this on top priority and a
technical professional body to be formed along with
regulatory authority to work on regulation and policy
changes and updation based on industry inputs and
global trends. This will result in globally accepted
best practices being introduced proactively in time
to enhance the aviation standards, safety, efficiency
and economic of aircraft operation.
Ground realities
The civil aviation sector in India has seen
remarkable and sudden growth in the last few years.
The real boom in aviation started as early as 2003
and ended in early 2008. Unfortunately, the Indian
aviation industry and aviation authority realised the
boom only in early 2006, that is, three years late,
and it really ended before the aviation group could
get geared up to take benefit of the boom.
The late realisation created panic/chaos due
to acute shortage of skilled manpower. In the preboom period, the regulatory authority was equipped
with manpower for supporting the issue and control
of a maximum of 100 flight crew licences a year.
However, the unanticipated boom and the resultant
media hype attracted more new trainee pilots and
increased the load to much more than 100 licences
a month (that is, 1,200 to 2,000 a year). This
unmanageable task was continued to be handled
by the same manpower strength, which resulted in
unwanted delays, dilution of safety standards and
irreparable issues in aviation history. This left the
aviation regulator red-faced and brought it under
international scanner for standards and safety.
 Air bus A400M Atlasthe multinational four
engine turboprop military
transport aircraft
The manpower crisis of the regulatory authority
has been there for more than a decade and has fallen
below a critical level. While adequate administrative
posts have been filled over the last few years, only
paper work piled up for wants of skilled technical
manpower. The crisis built up over the years and
waited for the international aviation community to
warn and come heavily down on effective standards
implementation and aviation safety.
 Air India's popular 787
dreamliner jet takes off
 The cokpit of Airbus
380
The continued temporary arrangement of
utilising operators to perform regulatory function
led to self-regulation and supervision of airline
management and conflict of interest – and not kept
under the supervisory and technical control of the
authority. This known visible fact was addressed well
in advance by the ICAO safety team. Unfortunately,
our handicapped aviation system waited for the
downgrade to happen.
Internationally, research (technology) institutes
undertake aviation study and research and make
recommendation for improvements. In developed
countries like the USA and those of Europe,
“the educational and research institute provide
opportunities for staff to engage students in
scholarly activities and facilitate research through
curricular or co-curricular opportunities in specific
fields, thus utilising readily available technical
manpower/research scholars for proper analysis
in international practices to bring early solutions to
existing real world problems/issues while allowing
innovation to thrive, creating a healthy business
environment.” In our system, no synergy has been
created between research institutes and aviation
groups – both work in isolation, even though, the
manpower resource is supplied by the latter.
Missing links
Many government-sponsored or scholarship
students and research scholars are available with
research institutes and universities and are anxiously
looking for challenging issues/problems and to
undertake projects to obtain their Master’s degree
and Doctor’s degree. Many problems/issues exist
in the industry and no group is available to resolve
and provide solution. The industry is struggling
with problems and other research institutes are
searching for problems to solve. No synergy exists.
There is a need of research group support and
participation to resolve existing issues and support
aviation standards, safety and sustainable aviation
business.
The new global aviation demands safety
management system to enhance the existing
standards and level of safety through performance
monitoring, which requires primarily a move from the
existing reactive culture of firefighting to predictive
10
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
11
Cover Story
training and updating of knowledge and imbibing
global best practices to bring in fast-growing, highstandard global trend and technology for positive
development. In accordance with ICAO SMS (9859):
2.3.3: Technological improvements (due in no
small measure to accident investigation), together
with the eventual development of an appropriate
infrastructure, led to a gradual but steady decline
in the frequency of accidents as well as an everincreasing regulatory drive.
The new global
aviation demands
safety management
system to enhance
the existing standards
and level of safety
through performance
monitoring, which
requires primarily
a move from the
existing reactive
culture of firefighting
to predictive and
proactive culture.
and proactive culture. Unfortunately, we are still
firefighting to satisfy or to overcome downgrade. It
will be difficult to progress to a required performancebased regulatory environment and to monitor the
actual performance of the aviation safety system.
The outcome may then be reduced to simply ‘ticking
the appropriate boxes’ under the false pretence
of managing safety. Let us understand the role of
civil aviation regulatory authority and the need of
synergy to enhance aviation standards and support
the sustainable aviation business.
The aviation regulatory mindset of scheduled
airlines is to be changed to overall in depth concept
to accommodate the equal number of increasing
non-scheduled and general aviation activities.
General aviation is an ignored sector over the years
and overregulated and controlled by the scheduled
aviation group and regulation, which are leading to
dilution and technical misuse of the possibility of
breaking rules.
It’s not just ticking the appropriate
boxes
The aviation activities are not just implementation
of specification and simply ‘ticking the appropriate
boxes.’ It is an understanding and practice of 19
Annex’s and hundreds of supplement research and
explanatory documents (ICAO DOC) and delivering
high-profile technical decisions, evaluations and
suggestions for enhancement of existing standards,
performance and also to bring in high-standard
regulation environment and decision-making
capability. By providing mere number game is not
fulfilling the requirements objectively.
 Airbus A380 fuselage
and wing landing gear.
12
By the 1950s, aviation was becoming (in terms
of accidents) one of the safest industries but
also one of the most heavily regulated and 2.3.5:
Processes are driven by beliefs. Therefore, under
the belief that regulatory compliance was the key
to aviation safety, the early safety process was
broadened to encompass regulatory compliance
and oversight. 2.3.11: This signalled the beginning
of the ‘organisational era’ when safety began to be
viewed from a systemic perspective, to encompass
organisational, human and technical factors. It was
also at that time that the notion of the organisational
accident was embraced by aviation.
Stop the blame game
Let us move from a BLAME GAME environment
to the positive acceptance to change present
unpredictable environment to grow steadily and
continuously with global trend by considering
the cost/benefits of improvements to the aviation
system; public expectations about the civil aviation
system and to have face in the international
competitive business market.
As the government is rightly focusing on
much-needed changes and improvements in the
regulatory framework and overall business climate,
it is right time to bring in skilled professional teamleader supervision environment in India by creating
a strong, high-standard enforcing regulatory
authority environment to compete and lead in
this focus-oriented, globally competitive business
environment•
MAKING FLYING SAFER
It is estimated that, every day, about 6 million people board airplanes and arrive safely at
their destinations. Flying is one of the safest modes of transportation today. The overall safety
record of commercial airplanes is excellent and has been steadily improving over time. The
following is an updated overview of the safety aspects relating to aircraft and air travel.
John Ebanazer
D
uring the 1950s and 1960s, fatal accidents
occurred about once every 200,000
flights. Today, the worldwide safety
record is more than 10 times better, with
fatal accidents occurring less than once every 2
million flights. Given the excellent safety record
of modern commercial airplanes, many of today's
improvements are incremental. Major aircraft
manufacturers like Boeing are giving high priority to
the safety of their aircraft.
It requires a pool of talent technical and
management professionals who can deliver highly
technical task of evolution, suggestion for alternative
means of compliance and changes in the system
by having continuous technical and management
With Boeing airplanes representing roughly 51%
of the worldwide fleet, ensuring safe travel for all
passengers and crew is the primary focus of the
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Boeing personnel who design, build, test, deliver
and support its airplanes. Aircraft manufacturers
promote aviation safety in a number of ways like
using robust processes to produce safe products,
continuously monitoring the performance of
the worldwide fleet, leveraging new technology
to enhance safety, participating in accident
investigations, working together with others to make
sure flying is as safe as possible. These combined
efforts are the most effective way to improve
continuously aviation safety worldwide.
Aviation safety is a term encompassing the
theory, investigation, and categorisation of flight
13
With Boeing airplanes
representing roughly
51% of the worldwide
fleet, ensuring
safe travel for all
passengers and crew
is the primary focus of
the Boeing personnel
who design, build, test,
deliver and support its
airplanes.
 Mumbai ATC Tower, the
tallest in India.
miles are 100 times higher. The number of deaths
per passenger-mile on commercial airlines in the
United States between 1995 and 2000 is about 3
deaths per 10 billion passenger-miles.
Navigation aids
One of the first navigation aids to be introduced
in the USA in the late 1920s was airfield lighting to
assist pilots to make landings in poor weather or
after dark. The Precision Approach Path Indicator
was developed from this in the 1930s, indicating
to the pilot the angle of descent to the airfield.
This later became adopted internationally through
the standards of the International Civil Aviation
Organisation (ICAO).
With the spread of radio technology, several
experimental radio-based navigation aids were
developed from the late 1920s onwards. These
were most successfully used in conjunction with
instruments in the cockpit in the form of Instrument
Landing System (ILS), first used by a scheduled
flight to make a landing in a snowstorm at Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania, the US, in 1938. A form of ILS was
adopted by the ICAO for international use in 1949.
failures, and the prevention of such failures through
regulation, education, and training. It can also be
applied in the context of campaigns that inform the
public as to the safety of air travel.
Safety regulatory systems
During the 1920s, the first laws were passed
in the USA to regulate civil aviation. Of particular
significance was the Air Commerce Act (1926) which
required pilots and aircraft to be examined and
licensed, for accidents to be properly investigated,
and for the establishment of safety rules and
navigation aids, under the Aeronautics Branch of
the United States Department of Commerce.
 Chief operators at the
ATC
Following the development of radar in World War
II, it was deployed as a landing aid for civil aviation
in the form of ground-controlled approach (GCA)
systems, joined in 1948 by distance measuring
equipment (DME), and in the 1950s by airport
surveillance radar as an aid to air traffic control.
VHF omnidirectional range (VOR) stations became
the predominant means of route navigation during
the 1960s, superseding the low-frequency radio
ranges and the non-directional beacon (NDB). The
ground-based VOR stations were often co-located
with DME transmitters. With the proper receiving
equipment in the aircraft, pilots could know their
radials in degrees to/from the VOR station, as well
as the slant range distance.
Ground-based navigation aids are being
supplanted by satellite-based aids like Global
Positioning System (GPS), which make it possible
for pilots to know their position with great precision
anywhere in the world. With the arrival of Wide Area
Augmentation System (WAAS), satellite navigation
has become accurate enough for vertical (altitude)
as well as horizontal use, and is being used
increasingly for instrument approaches as well as
en-route navigation. However, because the GPS
constellation is a single point of failure, on-board
Inertial Navigation System (INS) or ground-based
navigation aids are still required for backup.
In June 2014, the International Air Transport
Association said it was working on implementing
new measures to track aircraft in flight in real time.
A special panel was considering a range of options,
including the production of equipment especially
designed to ensure real-time tracking.
Safety hazards of air travel
Despite this, in 1926 and 1927, there were a
total of 24 fatal commercial airline crashes, a further
16 in 1928, and 51 in 1929. The fatal incident rate
has declined steadily ever since, and, since 1997,
the number of fatal air accidents has been no more
than 1 for every 2,000,000,000 person-miles flown.
Foreign object debris (FOD) includes items left
in the aircraft structure during manufacture/repairs,
debris on the runway, and solids encountered in
flight like hail and dust. Such items can damage
engines and other parts of the aircraft. Air France
Flight 4590 crashed after hitting a part that had
fallen from another aircraft.
Safety has improved from better aircraft design,
engineering and maintenance, the evolution
of navigation aids, and safety protocols and
procedures.
Misleading information and lack of information is
another cause of air accidents. A pilot misinformed
by a printed document, reacting to a faulty instrument
or indicator in the cockpit or on the ground, or
following inaccurate instructions or information from
flight or ground control can lose spatial orientation,
or make another mistake, and consequently lead to
accidents or near-misses.
It is often reported that air travel is the safest
in terms of deaths per passenger-mile. The US
National Transportation Safety Board (2006) reports
1.3 deaths per 100 million vehicle-miles for travel by
car, and 1.7 deaths per 100 million vehicle-miles for
travel by air. These are not passenger-miles. If an
airplane has 100 passengers, then the passenger-
14
by lightning twice a year on an average. The
dangers of more powerful positive lightning were
not understood until the destruction of a glider in
1999. It has since been suggested that positive
lightning might have caused the crash of Pan Am
Flight 214 in 1963. At that time, aircraft were not
designed to withstand such strikes because their
existence was unknown. The effects of typical
lightning on traditional metal-covered aircraft are
well-understood, and serious damage from a
lightning strike on an airplane is rare. The Boeing
787 Dreamliner, the exterior of which is carbonfibre-reinforced polymer, received no damage from
a lightning strike during testing.
Boeing studies showed that airliners are struck
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety has improved
from better aircraft
design, engineering
and maintenance,
the evolution of
navigation aids, and
safety protocols and
procedures.
 Manufacturing of
Boeing 777 freighter
Ice and snow can be factors in airline accidents.
In 2005, Southwest Airlines Flight 1248 slid off
the end of a runway after landing in heavy snow
conditions, killing one child on the ground. Even
a small amount of icing or coarse frost can impair
greatly the ability of a wing to develop adequate lift,
which is why regulations prohibit ice, snow or even
frost on the wings or tail, prior to takeoff. Air Florida
Flight 90 crashed on takeoff, in 1982, as a result of
ice/snow on its wings.
An accumulation of ice during flight can be
catastrophic, as evidenced by the loss of control
and subsequent crashes of American Eagle Flight
4184 in 1994, and Comair Flight 3272 in 1997. Both
aircraft were turboprop airliners, with straight wings,
which tend to be more susceptible to in-flight ice
accumulation, than are swept-wing jet airliners.
Airlines and airports ensure that aircraft are
properly de-iced before takeoff whenever the
weather involves icing conditions. Modern airliners
are designed to prevent ice build-up on wings,
engines, and tails by either routing heated air from
jet engines through the leading edges of the wing
and inlets or on slower aircraft, by use of inflatable
rubber ‘boots’ that expand to break off any
accumulated ice.
Airline flight plans require airline dispatch offices
to monitor the progress of weather along the routes
of their flights, helping the pilots to avoid the worst
of in-flight icing conditions. Aircraft can also be
equipped with an ice detector in order to warn pilots
to leave unexpected ice accumulation areas, before
the situation becomes critical.
Engine
failure
failure
and
structural
An engine may fail to function because of fuel
starvation, fuel exhaustion, foreign-object damage,
mechanical failure due to metal fatigue, mechanical
failure due to improper maintenance, mechanical
failure caused by an original manufacturing defect
in the engine, and pilot error.
In a multi-engine aircraft, failure of a single
15
engine usually results in a precautionary landing
being performed, for example, landing at a diversion
airport instead of continuing to the intended
destination. Failure of a second engine or damage
to other aircraft systems caused by an uncontained
engine failure may, if an emergency landing is not
possible, result in the aircraft crashing.
Examples of failure of aircraft structures caused
by metal fatigue include the de Havilland Comet
accidents in the 1950s and Aloha Airlines Flight 243
in 1988. Now that the subject is better understood,
rigorous inspection and non-destructive testing
procedures are in place. Composite materials
consist of layers of fibres embedded in a resin
matrix. In some cases, especially when subjected to
cyclic stress, the layers of the material separate from
each other and lose strength.
Stalling of an aircraft, that is, increasing the angle
of attack to a point at which the wings fail to produce
sufficient lift is dangerous and can result in a crash if
the pilot fails to make a timely correction.
Devices to warn the pilot when the aircraft’s
speed is decreasing close to the stall speed include
stall-warning horns, now standard on virtually all
powered aircraft; stick shakers’ and voice warnings.
Most stalls are a result of the pilot allowing the
airspeed to be too slow for the particular weight and
configuration at the time.
Fire and toxic smoke
Safety regulations control aircraft materials and
the requirements for automated fire safety systems.
Usually these requirements take the form of required
tests. The tests measure flammability of materials
and toxicity of smoke. When the tests fail, it is on a
prototype in an engineering laboratory rather than in
an aircraft.
Fire and its toxic smoke have been the cause
of accidents. An electrical fire on Air Canada
Flight 797 in 1983 caused the death of 23 of the
46 passengers, resulting in the introduction of
floor-level lighting to assist people to evacuate a
smoke-filled aircraft. In 1985, a fire on the runway
caused the loss of 55 lives, 48 from the effects of
incapacitating and subsequently lethal toxic gas
and smoke in the British Airtours Flight 28, an
accident which raised serious concerns relating to
survivability – something that had not been studied
in such detail. The swift incursion of the fire into
the fuselage and the layout of the aircraft impaired
passengers’ ability to evacuate, with areas such as
the forward galley area becoming a bottleneck for
escaping passengers, with some dying very close
to the exits.
Airlines and airports
ensure that aircraft
are properly deiced before takeoff
whenever the
weather involves icing
conditions.
B
ird-strike is an aviation term for a collision between
a bird and an aircraft. Fatal accidents have been
caused by both engine failure following bird ingestion
and bird-strikes breaking cockpit windshields. Jet
engines have to be designed to withstand the ingestion
of birds of a specified weight and number and not to
lose more than a specified amount of thrust. The weight
and numbers of birds that can be ingested without
hazarding the safe flight of the aircraft are related to the
engine intake area.
Much research into evacuation and cabin and
seating layouts was carried out at Cranfield Institute
to try to measure what makes a good evacuation
route, which led to the seat layout by overwing exits
being changed by mandate and the examination of
evacuation requirements relating to the design of
galley areas. The use of smoke hoods or misting
systems was also examined, though both were
rejected.
The outcome of an ingestion event and whether it
causes an accident – be it on a small and fast plane
such as military jet fighters or a large transport –
depends on the number and weight of birds and where
they strike the fan blade span or the nose cone. Core
damage usually results with impacts near the blade root
or on the nose cone.
South African Airways Flight 295 was lost in the
 Boeing 737 assembly
line in Washington
16
Birds a threat always
 Asiana Airlines after
crash
Safety Messenger | April 2015
The highest risk of a bird-strike occurs during
takeoff and landing in the vicinity of airports, and
during low-level flying by military aircraft, crop dusters
and helicopters, for example. Some airports use active
countermeasures, ranging from a person with a shotgun
through recorded sounds of predators to employing
falconers. Poisonous grass can be planted that is not
palatable to birds, nor to insects that attract insectivorous
birds. Passive countermeasures involve sensible landuse management, avoiding conditions attracting flocks
of birds to the area like landfills.
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Various ground support equipment operate in close
proximity to the fuselage and wings to service the aircraft
and occasionally cause accidental damage in the form of
scratches in the paint or small dents in the skin. However,
because aircraft structures including the outer skin play such
a critical role in the safe operation of a flight, all damage is
inspected, measured, and possibly tested to ensure that
any damage is within safe tolerance. An example problem
was the depressurisation incident on Alaska Airlines Flight
536 in 2005. During ground services, a baggage handler hit
the side of the aircraft with a tug towing a train of baggage
carts. This damaged the metal skin of the aircraft. This
damage was not reported, and the plane took off. Climbing
through 26,000 feet, the damaged section of the skin gave
way under the difference in pressure between the inside of
the aircraft and the outside air. The cabin depressurised
explosively, necessitating a rapid descent to denser air and
an emergency landing. Post-landing examination of the
fuselage revealed a 30-centimetre hole on the right side of
the airplane.
Plumes of volcanic ash near active volcanoes can
damage propellers, engines and cockpit windows. In 1982,
British Airways Flight 9 flew through an ash cloud and
temporarily lost power from all four engines. The plane was
badly damaged, with all the leading edges being scratched.
The front windscreens had been so badly ‘sandblasted’ by
the ash that they could not be used to land the aircraft.
17
In a multi-engine
aircraft, failure of
a single engine
usually results in a
precautionary landing
being performed, for
example, landing at
a diversion airport
instead of continuing
to the intended
destination.
Indian Ocean in 1987 after an in-flight fire in the
cargo hold could not be suppressed by the crew.
The cargo holds of most airliners are now equipped
with automated halon fire-extinguishing systems
to combat a fire that might occur in the baggage
holds. In May 1996, ValuJet Flight 592 crashed into
the Florida Everglades a few minutes after takeoff
because of a fire in the forward cargo hold. All 110
people on board died.
Pilot error and improper communication are
often factors in the collision of aircraft. This can take
place in the air (the 1978 Pacific Southwest Airlines
Flight 182) (TCAS) or on the ground (the 1977
Tenerife disaster) (RAAS). The ability of the flight
crew to maintain situational awareness is a critical
human factor in air safety. Human-factors training
is available to general aviation pilots and is called
single-pilot resource management training.
At one time, firefighting-foam paths were
laid down before an emergency landing, but the
practice was considered only marginally effective,
and concerns about the depletion of firefighting
capability due to pre-foaming led the United States
FAA to withdraw its recommendation in 1987.
Rarely, flight crewmembers are arrested or
subject to disciplinary action for being intoxicated
on the job. In 1990, three Northwest Airlines
crewmembers were sentenced to jail for flying while
drunk. In 2001, Northwest fired a pilot who failed
a breathalyzer test after a flight. In July 2002, two
America West Airlines pilots were arrested just
before they were scheduled to fly because they had
been drinking alcohol. The pilots were fired, and the
FAA revoked their pilot licences. At least one fatal
airliner accident involving drunk pilots occurred
when Aero Flight 311 crashed at Koivulahti, Finland,
killing all 25 on board in 1961, which underscores
the role that poor human choices can play in air
accidents.
One possible cause of fires in airplanes is wiring
problems that involve intermittent faults, such as
wires with breached insulation touching each other,
having water dripping on them, or short-circuits.
These are difficult to detect once the aircraft is on
the ground. However, there are methods, such as
spread-spectrum time-domain reflectometry that
can feasibly test live wires on aircraft during flight.
Human factors
 Rescue team working
at the crash site of the
Lion Air plane
18
Human factors, including pilot error, are
another potential danger, and currently the most
common factor of aviation crashes. Much progress
in applying human factors to improving aviation
safety was made around the time of World War
II by people such as Paul Fitts and Alphonse
Chapanis. However, there has been progress in
safety throughout the history of aviation, such as the
development of the pilot’s checklist, in 1937. Crew
Resource Management (CRM) is a technique that
makes use of the experience and knowledge of the
complete flight crew to avoid dependence on just
the captain.
Human-factors incidents are not limited to errors
by pilots. Failure to close a cargo door properly on
Turkish Airlines Flight 981 in 1974 caused the loss
of the aircraft – however, design of the cargo door
latch was also a major factor in the accident. In the
case of Japan Airlines Flight 123, improper repair of
previous damage led to explosive decompression
of the cabin, which in turn destroyed the vertical
stabiliser and damaged all four hydraulic systems
which powered all the flight controls.
Menace of terrorism
Aircrew are normally trained to handle hijack
situations. Since the September 11, 2001, attacks,
stricter airport and airline security measures are
in place to prevent terrorism, such as security
checkpoints and locking the cockpit doors during
flight. Though most aircrews are screened for
psychological fitness, some have taken suicidal
actions. In the case of EgyptAir Flight 990, it appears
that the first officer deliberately crashed into the
Atlantic Ocean while the captain was away from his
station, in 1999, off Nantucket, Massachusetts.
apart before it finally crashed near Palembang,
Sumatra. After three years of investigation, the
Indonesian authorities declared that the cause of
the accident could not be determined. However, the
US NTSB concluded that deliberate suicide by the
captain was the only reasonable explanation.
Passenger planes have rarely been attacked in
both peacetime and war. In 1973, Israel shot down
Libyan Arab Airlines Flight 114. In 1983, the Soviet
Union shot down Korean Air Lines Flight 007.
In 1988, the United States shot down Iran
Air Flight 655. In 2001, the Ukrainian Air Force
accidentally shot down Siberia Airlines Flight
1812 during an exercise. In 2014, an as-of-yetundetermined party in Ukraine shot down Malaysia
Airlines Flight 17.
 Boeing Dreamliner
executive class
Importance of design
Airport design and location can have a large
impact on aviation safety, especially since some
airports such as Chicago Midway International
Airport were originally built for propeller planes
and many airports are in congested areas where
it is difficult to meet newer safety standards. For
instance, the FAA issued rules in 1999 calling for a
runway safety area, usually extending 500 feet (150
metres) to each side and 1,000 feet (300 metres)
beyond the end of a runway. This is intended to
cover 90% of the cases of an aircraft leaving the
runway by providing a buffer space free of obstacles.
Many older airports do not meet this standard. One
method of substituting for the 1,000 feet (300 metres)
at the end of a runway for airports in congested
areas is to install an engineered materials arrestor
system (EMAS). These systems are usually made
of a lightweight, crushable concrete that absorbs
the energy of the aircraft to bring it to a rapid stop.
As of 2008, they have stopped three aircraft at JFK
Airport.
In 1982, Japan Airlines Flight 350 crashed while
on approach to the Tokyo Haneda Airport, killing
24 of the 174 on board. The official investigation
found the mentally ill captain had attempted suicide
by placing the inboard engines into reverse thrust,
while the aircraft was close to the runway. The first
officer did not have enough time to countermand
before the aircraft stalled and crashed.
According to a 2000 report by the United
States US National Transportation Safety Board,
emergency aircraft evacuations happen about once
every 11 days in the US. While some situations are
extremely dire, such as when the plane is on fire, in
many cases the greatest challenge for passengers
can be the use of the evacuation slide. In a Time
article on the subject, Amanda Ripley reported that
when a new supersized Airbus A380 underwent
mandatory evacuation tests in 2006, 33 of the 873
evacuating volunteers got hurt. While the evacuation
was considered a success, one volunteer suffered
a broken leg, while the remaining 32 received slide
burns. Such accidents are common. In her article,
Ripley provided tips on how to make it down the
airplane slide without injury.
In 1997, SilkAir Flight 185 suddenly went into a
high dive from its cruising altitude. The speed of the
dive was so high that the aircraft began to break
According to the 2014 ICAO safety report, the
total number of plane accidents in 2013 was 90
worldwide. Only 9 of these accidents were fatal
Safety Messenger | April 2015
accidents. The Global Fatal Accident Review of
the Civil Aviation Authority gives a total number of
0.6 fatal accidents per one million flights for the
10-year period 2002 and 2011. When expressed
as per-million hours flown, this number is 0.4. The
corresponding number of fatalities is 22.0 fatalities
per one million flights, or 12.7, when expressed as
per-million hours flown. The total number of fatalities
in 2013 was 173, which is the smallest number of
fatalities since 2000, even though the total number
of departures in 2013 was with 32.1 million as high
as never before. This corresponds to 5.39 fatalities
per one million departures in 2013•
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety improvement
initiatives
The safety improvement initiatives are
aviation safety partnerships between regulators,
manufacturers, operators, professional unions,
research organisations, and international
aviation organisations to enhance further safety.
Some major safety initiatives worldwide are:
• Commercial Aviation Safety Team (CAST)
in the US: This was founded in 1998 with a goal
to reduce the commercial aviation fatality rate in
the United States by 80% by 2007.
Aircrew are normally
trained to handle
hijack situations. Since
the September 11,
2001, attacks, stricter
airport and airline
security measures are
in place to prevent
terrorism, such as
security checkpoints
and locking the cockpit
doors during flight.
• European Strategic Safety Initiative (ESSI):
This The European Strategic Safety Initiative
(ESSI) is an aviation safety partnership between
EASA, other regulators and the industry. The
initiative objective is to enhance further safety
for citizens in Europe and worldwide through
safety analysis, implementation of cost-effective
action plans, and coordination with other safety
initiatives worldwide.
19
Safety
ROBOTIC ROLE IN
CONSTRUCTION
Automobiles and consumer goods are among the many products
that are already under the control of robotics. The use of robots in
the construction and building industry is still not commonplace, but
it is increasing slowly but surely. From welding steel I-beams for
buildings, to handling insulation where it is manufactured, the use of
robots is making steady inroads into the construction and building
industry. Vipin Sasidharan, Assistant Professor, SCMS College
explains the role and benefits of employing robotic systems in our
Indian construction Industry.
R
obotics is the science of designing,
building, and applying robots. It can be
considered as a solid discipline of study that
incorporates the background, knowledge,
and creativity of mechanical, electrical, computer,
industrial and manufacturing engineering. During
its initial phase of development, the construction
industry was one of the most unfamiliar R&D fields
for the robotics and automation community.
Vipin Sasidharan
The main difficulty of robotics and automation
in construction is related to the nature of the work
environment, which is highly unstructured in general.
The degree of automation and robotics systems
implementation in construction varies significantly
from one construction phase to another. But, in
20
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
21
recent years, the construction industry has become
one of the most important research areas in the field
of service robotics.
The past two decades have witnessed an
intense search among researchers for suitable
ways to introduce robotics into the construction
field. In Japan, robotic manipulators have been
used as assistants to human construction workers.
According to this approach, the human beings
perform the vital parts of the task, and the robot is
used to expand the human physical limits.
During the last few years, a tendency to
develop wearable robots for different applications
has immerged. At first, these types of robots were
thought of from a military point of view to provide
soldiers with powered exoskeletons to allow them
handle heavy loads and resist longer periods
without being exhausted. A wearable robot can
prove to be handy in construction activities requiring
large muscular power, providing the operator with
more strength beyond his natural limits and allowing
him to handle heavy objects. The manipulator is the
main structural component of the robot system. The
length and strength of the arm as well as the speed
at which the robot arm operates will dictate the
maximum load which the manipulator can handle.
 Concrete pouring
with the help of robotic
mechanism
In construction, the scope for automation and
robotics technologies implementation can be fairly
broad, including all stages of the construction
lifecycle. Robotics and automation can find
its application from the initial design, through
construction of the building on site and building
maintenance or control after the building has been
completed to the eventual dismantling or demolition
of the building.
Construction sector
Construction phase is one of the important
aspects of civil engineering structures. The success
of a project depends on how well the construction
phase is carried out. Efficient and economical
construction is particularly important because of the
increasing complexity of structures being built, the
availability of improved materials and construction
equipment. The project success from the project
management’s viewpoint is achieved when the
project is completed with the lowest possible cost,
at the highest quality, in the minimum possible time,
with no setbacks. In other words, success means
bringing each of the project performance indicators
such as cost, schedule, quality, safety, labour
productivity, materials consumption or waste to an
optimum value.
Advantages of robotic s
 Talon bomb disposal
robot
Applying automation and robotics in construction
is addressed from the perspective of adding value
to client and the environment by raising project
performance on various parameters such as quality,
cost, and speed of construction. These can be
approached by a flexible automation using robots
based on computer-assisted planning, engineering
and construction management.
Robotics and automation systems in construction
industry can achieve the advantages of higher safety
for both workers and the public through developing
and applying machines for dangerous jobs; uniform
quality with higher accuracy than that provided
by skilled worker, thereby satisfying customers
and meeting their expectations; and increasing
productivity and work efficiency with reduced costs.
The use of technology would be able to convert the
labor-oriented industry into a highly mechanised
and precise industry.
By automation, increased productivity could
reduce high labour cost share of 40% or more.
Automated and robotised construction process lead
to a continuous working time throughout the year. The
reduction of construction time would improve cost
22
Safety Messenger | April 2015
preventive security systems – the perhaps the
biggest factor for considering the use of robots in
construction is safety.
In addition to relieving human workers of tedious
jobs, robots can be increasingly employed in toxic
and hazardous environments. As inanimate objects,
robots are not susceptible to toxins or other materials
that are hazardous to humans. Dust generated from
construction industry often leads to fatal diseases
like tuberculosis and other bronchial problems,
thus affecting the manhours and hampering work.
Through automation, we can replace workers and
put automatic machines, thereby reducing casualty.
with a high degree of accuracy.
By automation,
increased productivity
could reduce high
labour cost share
of 40% or more.
Automated and
robotised construction
process lead to a
continuous working
time throughout the
year.
Indian context
In India, the construction industry is one of
the largest industrial sectors, but the complaints
of poor construction quality have been traditional
problems in the Indian construction industry. Lack
of skilled workers and the rapid advancement
in automation and robotics technology indicate
promising potential for gradual use of automation
in construction industry. In India, automation
technology is less adopted as compared to other
countries. In developed countries such as Japan
and Germany, the use of automation, developing
the techniques and implementing automation are
much advanced as compared to India.
Disadvantages of robotics
benefit analysis of construction project due to faster
availability and return on investment of real estate.
It can also greatly reduce the scrap generated and
thereby reducing cost. Reusing building material
could enhance environment-friendly conditions and
can lead to green construction.
Robots are used commonly within a specific
area of the construction process. There are several
examples and can be divided into robots for
structural work, robots for finishing or completion
work, robots for inspection works, and robot for
maintenance work. Automation can be done
in uniform brick-laying, steelwork lifting and
positioning, plastering of uniform thickness of
ceilings, interior and exterior walls. Applications
for automation in concrete works cover concretelaying to post-laying levelling, removal of surface
water, and final floor-finishing.
As with all technologies and systems, robotics
also has its disadvantages. Lack of mechanical
flexibility can be considered as one of the main
disadvantage of robotic system. In comparison
with the human worker, a robot is not nearly as
complicated as a human is; humans have more end
effectors like arms, legs, fingers and much more
sophisticated sensory perception. In addition, the
mechanics of robotics prevents robots from having
the proficiency, physical flexibility, and movement of
humans. This leads to a pivotal rule for employing
robots in the workplace – that is, to optimise the
task according to robot’s capabilities and not for the
sake of replacing human workers
Lack of understanding and awareness
about robotics can be considered as another
disadvantage. In general, the average individual
knows very little about robotics, its uses and
potential in industrial applications, and the
benefits of these uses. Much of the information
In addition to relieving
human workers of
tedious jobs, robots
can be increasingly
employed in toxic
and hazardous
environments. As
inanimate objects,
robots are not
susceptible to toxins
or other materials
that are hazardous to
humans.
 Robot which assembles
 Tartan's rescue robot
engines at Nissan Motor
Co. Ltd.
Displacement of workers: Robots are installed
to improve production efficiency and quality,
thereby reducing cost. Since it is human workers
who perform the work, one robot will replace one or
more human workers. It is this threat of impending
and potentially widespread unemployment that is of
greatest concern to the workforce. In most cases, it
is the threat, not the action, of unemployment that
causes the most harm.
Robotic costs: Certain costs will be incurred
when buying and operating a robotic system.
These costs may be broken down as acquisition
costs, investment costs, maintenance costs,
and operating costs. The acquisition cost of a
robot is highly dependent on the type of robot,
the sophistication of movement and control, the
type and movement of the end effectors, and the
number and sophistication of sensors. Investment
costs include the depreciation of the robotic
system and equipment, and the interest charges
on the investment. Maintenance costs include
cost incurred on regular maintenance, system
and equipment inspections, and repairs after
breakdown. Operating costs include the costs of
electrical power, fuel, or other costs incurred during
operation of the robotic system. In general, these
costs can be either readily determined or estimated
Cost benefits of robotisation
In the cost and benefits analysis, benefits are
those savings that may be derived from robotisation.
In general, the benefits derived from the use of a
particular robot may be difficult to calculate or
determine. These benefits may be largely in the
field of execution speed and safety.
Safety advantages
Thousands of construction workers are injured
or killed in construction accidents each year.
Studies show that the main risk sources in onsite environment are collision with the machine
transporting heavy and big objects, falls from highwork areas, materials falling on workers, crane and
material handling accidents, and the collapse of
trenches and excavations. Therefore, these have
to be taken into consideration when designing
24
gathered about robotics is published in technical
journals and publications which are not available
to the average individual. This lack of information
causes individuals to formulate opinions and make
decisions based on hearsay and emotion rather
than logic and intelligence. These misinformed
opinions and decisions, in turn, lead to bias and
fear. Also, many people insist on human touch, they
dislike the fact that the products and services they
receive may not have been produced or rendered
by another person. Robotics provide service and
convenience, but lack human interaction. Without
the human touch, users feel frustrated, exploited,
and vulnerable.
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Safety Messenger | April 2015
The key challenge for automation of construction
activities arises from the fact that construction is
usually done in an unstructured fashion. Automation
technology available has not been adequate to meet
the needs of such unstructured environment. One of
the main obstacles while implementing automation
technologies in Indian infrastructure projects is
the high capital cost. Due to the high cost, few
use the automation technology. Low technological
knowledge of workers is another obstacle during
implementing automation technology in Indian
construction industry. There are so many unskilled
labourers in India who have no knowledge about
automation technology.
The future
In days where the skilled work force is diminishing
at an alarming rate, robotics has tremendous
potential in construction industry. The wide-scale
acceptance of robotics can be achieved through
development of cheap and easy-to-use robots.
The concept of easy-to-use robots should target
the development of robust robots which are easy
to control and programme through friendly human
machine interfaces. Development of cheap robots
that cover single type of application can make this
system affordable to even small-scale construction
activities.
Increasing the level of automation of existing
machinery can also prove to be a practical solution
to increasing the popularity of robotic applications.
Modifying the conventional construction machines
like cranes and compactors can be done to convert
them into robotic systems. Robotics has been
named a key science of the 21st century. The
means and methods of robotics are spreading to
other engineering sciences and to medical areas,
offering huge chances for novel products.
The robot is expected to be an extended,
intelligent tool for the human. It should be seen as
a partner to human beings in fulfilling difficult tasks
rather than a competitor•
25
Health
Japan tops automation
T
wenty-five years ago, it would be very
uncommon to see much construction
plant and equipment on small-scale, domestic
work. Today, access equipment, mechanical
excavators and power hand-tools are the norm.
This incremental development of productivityraising and cost-saving devices will continue
alongside the more ambitious site automation
and autonomous systems. Twenty-five years
from now, it will be a very different picture on
many sites around the world where concern
for human life is paramount. Safety and the
environment will become a driving force for
more automation and robots on our sites.
To be fair, most of the running – so to
speak – has been done in Japan by the major
construction companies, often supported
by large research institutes (of their own)
and by collaboration with heavy engineering
enterprises. There have been developments in
the USA, Canada, Europe and Australia, but, by
number alone, the Japanese have produced far
more than the rest put together.
SMART (Shimizu Manufacturing system
by
Advanced
Robotics
Technology)
represents more recent attempts at computerintegrated construction (CIC) that claims
to reduce by 30% the number of manhours
required to complete a multi-storey office
building in 1993. System set-up takes about 6
weeks, after which the building’s top floor and
roof are erected on top of 4 jacking towers:
the effect is to resemble a top-hat. The jacking
towers are used to push up the 1,323-ton top
floor assembly – the main work platform – as
well as lifting their own bases from floor to
26
floor in a cycle time of around two and a half hours.
The heart of the system is composed of lifting
mechanisms and automatic conveying equipment,
which is installed on the work platform. This later
becomes the roof of the building. Overhead gantry
cranes are connected to the underside of the
roof structure in a way that resembles a factory
production facility. Trolley hoists are used to lift
and position components, which are introduced at
ground level.
Computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM) has
been used as the model for the site-automation
system element of SMART. Technologies such
as just-in-time (JIT), materials handling, process
control and inventory control are implicit in the
approach. The third element, site automation, brings
together a raft of technologies and management
practices that are adapted to the circumstances
of the construction site. Automated transportation
of materials, followed by their assembly and
positioning using robots completes the process.
Dr. Rajesh
The implications of the push towards total
automation, as embodied by CIC, are to require
many changes to working practices. For Shimizu,
this means that job descriptions for its workers
have had to become less specific because of the
integration of different functions. The emphasis has
moved the company still closer to multi-disciplinary
working. Within this, Shimizu has recognised that
not only technical skills but also the personalities of
the workers are important.
ASTHMA CAN BE
DANGEROUS
Asthma and other allergic diseases are extremely common in general population and it is
estimated that up to 10% of Indian population may be allergic. Since asthma and allergic
disorders are predominantly genetic in origin, prevention is not possible. Dr. Rajesh, reputed
faculty and expert consultant in pulmonary and critical care explain the reasons and remedies
of this serious chest disease and suggest possible precautions. Dr. Rajesh, former Professor
of Amritha Institute of Medical Sciences, Kochi is now consultant pulmonologist in the Rajagiri
Hospital, Kochi.
A
sthma is an allergic disorder affecting
the airways and the lung. Allergy refers
to exaggerated response of the human
body or parts of it to external agents. The
affected organs react to external stimuli at a much
greater magnitude to the extent of injuring one’s
In heavy engineering and civil engineering,
more and more autonomous machines will appear,
replacing humans where safety and productivity are
key issues. No wonder, the construction robots will
become an everyday sight in the near future•
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
own body. Asthma often coexists with other allergic
diseases of the skin, eyes, nose, throat etc. The
manifestations of the condition can vary greatly as
described subsequently.
Asthma and other allergic diseases are
extremely common in general population and are
27
How do we detect asthma?
Asthma is essentially a clinical diagnosis which
can be picked up with the classical symptoms and
examination findings as mentioned above. However,
in clinical practice, many patients do not have the
typical symptom pattern. Many other diseases like
tuberculosis, COPD and lung cancer can have
closely mimicking symptoms. In early stages,
symptoms may be minimal, and detection by
examination can be difficult. This aspect is crucial,
as treatment will yield the best results if instituted
after early detection. Usual tests needed include a
chest X-ray to rule out more serious conditions, and
a pulmonary function test (spirometry) which will
clinch the diagnosis in most cases. Sophisticated
tests like bronchial challenge testing and exhaled
breath nitric oxide concentrations are hardly needed
in routine clinical practice.
being encountered extremely commonly in medical
practice. It is estimated that up to 10% of Indian
population may be allergic. True data and figures
are difficult to obtain and the values are estimated
by extrapolation from sample population surveys.
Increasing rates are seen in recent years, which
may be a true increase owing to alterations in
atmospheric particles or an apparent increase due
to better awareness and detection rates. Allergic
disorders account for a significant proportion
of patients seeking care from respiratory, ENT,
dermatology and general medicine practitioners.
Who is prone to asthma?
Asthma and other allergic disorders have
a strong familial component. Atopy refers to
the genetic predisposition to develop allergic
conditions. Such subjects have some specific
genes which confer the allergic tendency, though
an exhaustive list of the implicated genes is still a
matter of research. Though the tendency is inherited,
the manifestations will depend on environmental
conditions that trigger a response. Diet, exposure to
pollutants and infectious agents, usage of tobacco
products etc have a bearing on the development
of atopy. In susceptible individuals, exposure to
triggering agents results in symptoms of asthma.
These triggers vary from dust, smoke, respiratory
infections, atmospheric pollutants, drugs and
dietary substances.
 Vaccination for Asthma
 Passive smoking can
trigger Asthma
the age, duration of asthma, severity of disease and
exposure to triggering factors in the recent past.
The following symptoms should prompt the patient
and doctor to think the possibility of asthma. These
symptoms, if occurring intermittently but repeatedly
on exposure to the triggering agents as mentioned
above, strongly suggest the possibility of asthma.
In very mild cases, the symptoms may be so subtle
that specialised tests may be required to detect the
disease.
•
Frequent respiratory infections
•
Cough with or without shortness of breath
•
Wheezing and noisy breathing
•
Chest tightness
What are the consequences of asthma?
In early stages, asthma is a truly intermittent
and infrequent disease causing inconvenience only
during acute attacks. Severe acute attacks can
present with severe oxygen drop and respiratory
failure, leading to potential death, especially at
extremes of age. Untreated or inadequately treated
asthma leads to progressive narrowing of airways
and shrinkage of the lung, leading to decrease in
the lung capacity and exercise capability. Though
the narrowing and shrinkage is reversible in early to
mid stages with medications, it no longer remains
so at later stages. Beyond a stage, this leads to
irreversible decrease in lung capacity even with
treatment. This underscores the importance of early
detection and appropriate therapy.
 Construction dust is a
cause for Asthma
development of exaggerated allergy and prevent
the development of asthma attacks to a major
extent even if exposed to adverse triggers. Relievers
help getting out of the symptoms during an acute
attack. Preventers are recommended as they are
considered the drugs of choice for asthma. They
have to be used continuously (even when the patient
is symptom-free) for optimal results. Medications
may be slowly tapered or even attempted to be
stopped over months if the disease remains wellcontrolled.
The preventer medicines can be administered in
the inhaler, tablet, syrup or powder form. Molecules
are available where preventers can be given as
injections once every 2-4 weeks. Various medicine
categories include theophyllines, leukotriene
modifiers, and steroids. Inhaled steroid medicines
At very late stages, chronic, persistent asthma
leads to complications. Chronic respiratory failure,
heart failure (a specific type of right heart-chamber
failure called cor pulmonale), and resting low levels
of oxygen can cause potential threat to life. Frequent
pneumonias and respiratory failure needing artificial
breathing (mechanical ventilator support) can
occur at late stages. Subjects can become oxygendependent, needing continuous oxygen at home.
What are the symptoms and signs?
What is the optimal treatment of asthma?
Asthmatic subjects can present with varying
symptoms and examination findings depending on
28
Spirometry involves forced inspiration and
expiration into a computerised instrument with a
mouthpiece. It measures the various aspects of
lung volumes and capacities and gives crucial
information about the functional status of the lung.
In addition to providing the diagnosis and disease
severity, the test can be repeated after administration
of medicines, which gives a good assessment of
treatment response. The test is regarded as the
backbone of asthma diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment of asthma involves usage of preventer
as well as reliever medications. Preventers block the
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
29
Health
contain different chemicals other than the classical
steroids (like cortisone, prednisolone, etc.) which
can be safely given without steroid side effects in
the recommended small doses.
Inhalers for asthma
Inhaled medicines carry lots of potential
advantages in respiratory diseases. They can be
delivered directly into the airway and lung (which
is the desired site of action) without circulating into
the blood and going to vital organs; hence they
virtually lack any systemic side effects. Since they
are directly delivered to lungs, very small doses are
enough. Furthermore, the onset of action is rapid
and immediate owing to direct delivery. Much of
the phobia surrounding inhaler use is baseless.
Inhaled medicines are neither highly potent (on the
contrary, they are of low potency due to miniature
doses used) nor habit-forming. Both preventers and
relievers can be delivered in the inhaled form.
Attaining lung health
Since asthma and allergic disorders are
predominantly genetic in origin, prevention beyond
a limit is not possible. Certain harmful exposures
and diet in infancy as well as early childhood can
prevent the development of atopic state to some
extent. There is lack of clarity on these aspects even
in the medical field.
What is more accepted and straightforward is
the avoidance of asthma triggers which provoke
an acute attack. Most allergic subjects become
symptomatic on exposure to tobacco smoke,
dust, strong smells, fungal spores, automobile
exhaust and such noxious particles. A minority can
have problems with cold atmosphere, humidity,
infections and specific foodstuffs. Identifying the
triggers by close observation and appropriate
avoidance can go a long way in preventing asthma
attack. Legislation and voluntary efforts to maintain
a healthy environment at a collective level can
advance asthma control to the next level.
New therapies
Asthma is an area of hot research in the medical
field, and a lot of new and potentially effective
treatments are being developed. Antibodies
against the allergic chemicals (termed monoclonal
antibodies) are beings developed and used. The
one with extensive experience and good results
is termed omalizumab (anti IgE antibody) and is
commercially available in India. This is given as
an injection every 2-4 weeks for periods ranging
from 6 months to 2 years. The high cost precludes
widespread usage. New inhalers are also being
developed for asthma treatment•
 Feeling of chest
tightness is a symptom
 Breathing exercise can
help Asthma
Dr. T. M Manju
"Asthma, a condition often labelled as incurable and chronic, can be cured if treated with
homoeopathic medicines", says Dr T M Manju. She is the consultant homoeopath in Kochi. In
this article she explains how asthma can be managed through homoeopathy.
Vaccinations
Infections play a major role in the development
of atopy as well as in triggering an acute asthma
attack. Prevention of infections can theoretically
improve asthma control and exacerbation rate. Two
commercially available vaccines are recommended
for asthma subjects: The pneumococcal vaccine
is directed against 23 types of pneumococcus
bacteria, and influenza vaccine (flu shot) gives
protection against influenza viruses. Influenza
vaccination is recommended yearly prior to winter.
It needs to be remembered than germs not covered
by these vaccines do exist in plenty and can still
cause respiratory infections despite vaccinations.
30
MANAGING ASTHMA
WITH HOMOEOPATHY
A
sthma (az-muh) affects people of all
age groups and all walks of life. Some
races may be predisposed as compared
to others; however, asthmatic patients
happen to exist globally with an alarming increase
each year. Asthma is defined as a disorder
characterised by chronic airway inflammation
and increased airway responsiveness resulting in
symptoms of wheeze, cough, chest tightness and
difficulty in breathing.
Asthma is multifunctional in origin arising from
interaction of both genetic and environmental
factors. Airway inflammation characterising asthma
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
occurs when genetically susceptible individuals
are exposed to environmental factors but the
exact processes may vary from patient to patient.
The timing, intensity and mode of exposure to
aeroallergens are important environmental factors
which trigger the production of immunoglobulin E
(Ig.E).
With an increase in pollution levels and
exposure to artificial foods and chemicals, the
body’s immune response ought to break down at
some point. This allergic response manifests in the
form of respiratory ailments or skin allergies. Very
often, this immune malfunction may cause certain
31
skin conditions (atopic dermatitis) which alternate
with asthma symptoms. Most asthmatics opt for the conventional line
of treatment which includes bronchodilators and
steroids. They work wonderfully in acute conditions
and when immediate relief is expected. Though
helpful, patients, over time, realize that they
work only at the level of relieving symptoms and
preventing them temporarily. They do not help the
body improve its response to allergens (irritants) or
simply fail to improve the faulty immune mechanism.
Prevalence
Asthma is common and its prevalence is
increasing. Apart from its linkage to the genetic
factor, it has a strong relationship with the
atmospheric pollution and modern living conditions
and habits of people such as:
• The increasing concentrations of pollutants
particularly sulphur and nitrogen dioxides
• Active smoking and passive exposure to
cigarette smoke
Early detection
The following conditions help early detection of
asthma:
• Lack of proper ventilation in airconditioned
workspaces and rooms
• Recurrent attacks of allergic rhinitis
• Pet-derived allergens
• Nasal polyposis
• House with dust abounding in carpets, soft
furnishing
• Higher frequency of eosinophilia
Homoeopathic management
• Unhealthy food habits: Junk foods, ice creams,
canned food, and certain artificial tastemakers
trigger allergic reaction, besides shellfishes, crabs
and prawns in genetically susceptible individuals
Genetically predisposed individuals develop the
disease in early childhood.
 Allergic attacks is an
early symptom
Homoeopathic medical science attributes the
cause of chronic diseases to the ‘Miasms’. To a
common man, it is the tendency of a particular body
to contract a particular disease. Rhinitis, pharyngitis,
tonsillitis, asthma and allergic manifestations come
under Psoriac Miasm.
Homoeopathy considers the patient as a
whole – his body constitution, mental makeup,
predisposition to diseases, lifestyle, food habits,
and family history. All these factors are taken into
consideration for the selection of medicine, and
hence the medicine given to each individual is
different.
Antipsoric remedies help a lot in the
management of infections of the upper respiratory
tract. Homoeopathic medicines have no side
effects and can be given to children in their early
days to suppress the expression of Psoric Miasm
and hence the disease.
Effective medicines are available for reducing
the frequency of diseases like tonsillitis, pharyngitis,
allergic rhinitis, and allergic asthma as well.
The following are needed along with medicines:
• Regular breathing exercises
• Avoiding cold food
• Steam inhalation•
32
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Cover story
JUMBO JOB THAT’S AIR
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT
Transformational change in governance, technology, processes and people is about to occur in India's ATM system.
With air traffic in India more than tripling in volume over the last decade, much of the focus in terms of capacity building
has been on airport modernisation and construction. However, equally if not more critical, is the issue of airspace and
air traffic management infrastructure. With Indian aviation expected to enter a new growth phase, to achieve air safety
of the highest order, unidirectional air corridor concept need to be introduced. Focusing on the risky affair of ATM,
S. Swaminathan, Officiating General Manager, Airports Authority of India here discusses the efficiency of Air Traffic
Control in the Indian Air Space.
Y
our kind attention, please… In a few
moments from now, our flight will be landing
in Delhi. Please fasten your seatbelts and
keep the window shutters open. The
temperature outside is 5 degree Celsius.
S. Swaminathan
When I opened the shutter, I found the live city
full of neons, argons and sodium-vapour looking
upwards to invite us to a smooth landing into her
lap. Cars and buses, no bigger than the size of ants,
were marching past long trails of highways – they
were getting bigger and bigger. Ahh… I could see
a sigh of relief when a not-so-heavy impact was
made by the landing gears on the hard runway at
the Indira Gandhi International airport, New Delhi.
I could see passengers busy switching on their
cellphones as the aircraft exited the main runway.
34
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
35
in India, including surveillance and meteorology
data, so that ATC centres can be periodically
advised about the best decisions to be taken in
traffic management – be it an unprecedented delay
observed at a busy airport, or weather conditions
causing re-routing and deviations from planned
tracks, or some airspace closed due to contingent
requirements.
Services. Defying the commonly held myth that Air
Traffic Control is done only from the tall towers, which
is visible to the public, Air Traffic Services are divided
into Aerodrome Control Services, Approach Control
Services, Area Control Services, Flight Information
Services, and Air Traffic Advisory Services.
Aerodrome Control Services and Surface
Movement Control Services are provided from the
Control Tower for aircraft on the tarmac, taxiways
and runways and in the vicinity of the airport in the
air which are in their final phases of landing. The
controllers are tasked with ensuring safety; and
preventing collisions between aircraft, between
aircraft and vehicles, and between aircraft and
buildings. With a complex network of taxiways and
parking bays which are grouped in tiers and multiple
runways, and aircraft with different performance
capabilities, as small as a Cessna and as large as
an Airbus 380, the Aerodrome Controllers have a
not-so-enviable task at hand.
The ASM and ATFM in combination enable
optimal utilisation of airspace(s) and airports.
Imagine an airport with a single runway, with a
condition that any two aircraft movements, either
an arrival or departure, should have a 2-minute
interval between them owing to runway occupancy
and other safety conditions. Imagine there are 30
departures and 30 arrivals within a block-hour ready
to go and come in for a landing. Whereas the airport
can cater only to 30 movements in an hour, the
additional 30 will have a cascading delay, causing
holding at the taxiways or in the skies. These delays
are systemic and directly related to constraints, and
they are being increasing addressed to the extent
that delays are becoming minimal, and on-time
performances are improving by the day.
Divisions of ATS
It is wonderful to have an insight into Air Traffic
Control, which is the main component of Air Traffic
 Working in high alert
The Approach Controller has to climb and
descend aircraft within a 100 kilometres from the
airport through crossing paths and allow efficient
and safe establishment of flights on their tracks
to destinations in case of departures or along the
extended centre-line of the runway in case of an
arrival. At any given moment in Delhi, with westerly
flow of traffic, departures going to Kolkata, Guwahati
and Bangkok have to cut across a stream of arrivals,
inter alia, from Lahore, Amritsar, Srinagar, Karachi,
Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Singapore.
The Area Control Centre handles the flights
beyond the jurisdiction of the Approach Control,
up to 46,000 feet and over 400 kilometres from the
airport. The handling of real-time traffic in 3D with
tens of thousands of passengers on board requires
the Controller to possess high skill sets, diligence,
alacrity, spontaneity and any number of adjectives
that may be lined up.
My cellphone too came alive, and my son was on
the line; he had been excited about his visit to the
Air Traffic Control centre the previous day along
with his schoolmates. When he was done with his
narration, I realised that there is a ‘lot in the middle’
between the aircraft and the airports, which makes
my travel safe and efficient, and I was very eager
to know more, and, as I entered the cab, I started
surfing the internet.
Air Traffic Management (ATM) has evolved so
quickly over the decades, to keep pace with the
industry, which has ‘speed’ inherent in it. ATM is
today far distant from merely being Air Traffic Control
and has evolved to include Air Traffic Services (ATS),
36
 Flights lining up for
take off
ATC handles traffic not only over the continental
airspace but also over a vast continental airspace
over the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea. ATC is
also involved in constant coordination with military
authorities and act as a second-line of air defence.
A wonderful one-liner in an advertisement captures
the essence of the safety aspect: ‘In Air Traffic
Management, knowledge is not power, safety is.’
Air Space Management (ASM), and Air Traffic Flow
Management (ATFM).
Air Space Management is more strategic and
pre-tactical in nature and includes design of air
routes and airspace(s). India has a robust network
of ATS Routes, which are highways in the sky. Air
Traffic Flow Management ensures that delays
in air are minimized by deploying ground-delay
programmes and speed-control initiatives.
Technological revolution
Technology has revolutionised communication
and travel, and the ATC centres in India have come
a long way in terms of equipage. From old radar
displays which were Cathode Ray Tube-based
technology, which had to be operated in dark rooms,
we have come a long way. All our metro and major
ATC centres are equipped with ‘daylight radars’ –
the old, hand-held mikes have given way to highfidelity headsets, and old transmitting technologies
India is at the threshold of implementing ATFM
– the project is likely to be completed in 2015. The
ATFM system will have such advanced Decision
Support Tools (DST) and contain all ATM information
from across all major airports and ATC centres
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Safety Messenger | April 2015
37
Cover story
are being replaced by IP-based radios. The major
ATC centres also have moved from analog to digital.
Today, the Indian ATC centres are capable of
transmitting digital messages delivered direct into
the aircraft cockpits, which contain ATC clearances
through Controller Pilot Data Link Communication,
Pre-Departure Clearances through DLC and even
Digital Airport Terminal Information Service (D-ATIS)
and Digital VOLMET services. The ATS Automation
Systems at the ATC centres contain safety nets,
including calculated warnings and alarms and other
decision support tools, which assist in ensuring that
there is ‘zero incidence’ of a safety situation.
The entire continental airspace is surveilled
by radars and Automatic Dependent Surveillance
Broadcasts (ADS-B), which are integrated into the
ATS Automation systems. In fact, Metro ATC centres
in Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai and Delhi have
multiple surveillance inputs integrated into their
systems that the Air Traffic Controller can have an
enhanced and uninterrupted situational awareness
of the flights under his control. Technology has
enabled the implementation of a major programme
known as the Upper Airspace Harmonisation (UAH)
Programme whereby Air Traffic above 26,000 feet
within the entire Flight Information Region of Delhi,
Kolkata, Chennai and Mumbai is controlled by the
respective Metro ATC centres, thus ensuring high
and uniform quality of service delivery.
Modern aircraft are capable of high
performances, and India has also implemented a
robust performance-based navigation programme,
and matching procedures and facilities are in place
to harness the aircraft-performance capabilities.
Today, better-equipped aircraft are better-served
in letter and spirit. Safety, Capacity and Efficiency
initiatives have made the airspace highly safe,
optimally utilised and more efficient than before
and will cater to future growth of air traffic as well.
It is good to know that the Indian environmental
initiatives have also won global recognition.
Sustainable aviation is a key thrust area, and
programmes are in place for shorter routing through
Route Optimisation, minimising air-borne delays
and allowing flights to follow flexible tracks. The
fuel burns are reduced, leading to reduced CoxNox
emissions. Today, the Indian Air Navigation Services
are recognised globally, and international awards
are pouring in, including the Jane’s ATC Awards,
World ATM Congress Awards, the Golden Peacock
Award, and, more importantly, the leader of the
ANSP has been conferred with the JRD Tata Award.
‘People’ factor
Despite the modern technology better and
evolving procedures, the most important facet
in efficient and safe air transport management is
‘People.’
38
The Air Traffic Controllers work 24 x 7 in highpressure situations, with the responsibility of
handling life-critical operations. These situations
include the systems throwing innumerable tough
situations; pressure to push efficiency within a
safety paradigm; handling contingent situations
like aircraft emergencies like sequencing an aircraft
with a sick person on board ahead of so many
other arrivals, even while entering loads of data into
systems; managing information from meteorological
information to advanced surveillance and aircraft
control information; coordinating with adjacent ATS
units within the country and abroad regarding flight
movements; coordinating with military regarding air
defence issues; handling security-sensitive flights;
monitoring flights and guiding them safely between
airports; and ensuring that they fly at optimal levels
so that their fuel efficiency is at a maximum.
 New ATC Tower at
Mumbai Airport
TECH IMPACT
ON PILOT ROLE
The Human in the loop is what matters ultimately
to define the system efficiency. And, I am glad
I am in safe hands, in the hands of the ‘sentinels
of the skies’ – the Air Traffic Controllers – who are
professionals who work in the background to enable
my safe flight every time I embark an aircraft.
There is growing concern in the aviation circles as to whether the increasing dependency
on automation is creating a potentially dangerous scenario in which the role of pilots and
there skills are only to backup automation in the cockpit. Gone are the days of an airplane
pilot having the supreme role of steering an aircraft depending mainly on his skills. In fact,
automated systems on the flight deck have changed the role of pilots in a major way with the
advent of the latest navigational systems and automated flight-control devices.
Even before I could knock the door and ring
the bell, the door opened, and my son was eagerly
awaiting with a twinkle in his eye. I knew in my heart
of hearts I owe it not only to the airport and airline
professionals but also a host of Communication,
Navigation and Surveillance Engineers, and, more
importantly, to a group of dedicated professionals
known as Air Traffic Controllers•
T
here is no doubt that greater automation on
the cockpit has saved countless lives over
the years. Moreover, autopilot controls can
fly planes more efficiently than human pilots,
leading to savings on fuel burn and more efficient
flying. Yes, more and more, pilots are becoming the
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
backup to the automation.
Automation has made it easy for pilots to
become overdependent on the autopilot system,
which is not infallible in terms of the risk of providing
false information to pilots, experts say. For this very
39
reason, many an airline have been revising their
policies on the use of automation and strengthening
their manual flying instruction.
Growing concern
In this backdrop, new rules which require higher
standards for pilot training and dramatically raise the
number of minimum flight hours for pilots applying
for airline jobs are being framed by leading airline
companies, especially as pilot errors are on the rise
as the cause of some major aviation mishaps.
ReCalling
CHALLENGING TIMES
Today, the aviation technology is at its best with
the inception of computer/digital technology and
satellite monitoring. Aeroplanes are equipped with
EFIS, ACRAS, TCAS, CPDLC, FMCG, EFB, HUD,
Weather Radar, SATCOM, GPS, IRS and many
more. The role of the captain has become as system
manager, that is, monitoring the equipment at all the
time with designations as PF/PNF, CM1/CM2, PF/
PM, etc., designating area of work and responsibility,
arrangements of appropriate checklists and other
on board technical reference manuals concerned.
Crash of Air France Flight 447
The decision to troubleshoot automated
readings appears to have contributed to the fatal
crash of Air France Flight 447, an Airbus A330 en
route to Paris from Rio de Janeiro that went into
a high-altitude loss of airspeed on June 1, 2009
and plunged into the Atlantic Ocean, killing all 228
people aboard, according to the investigation into
the mishap. The investigators concluded that the
pilots lost control partly because they responded
incorrectly to an airspeed-indicator failure and
misinterpreted the problems that were occurring.
Captain Anant Kulkarni has had a commendable career in Air India.
He recalls the challenging times in his career. Here he tries to touch
upon issues like the impact of technology and automation and how
they affect the role of a pilot and his judgement skills.
A
eromodelling was my hobby in college days
in the 1960s, which finally led to my flying
career later. During my initial stage, I flew with
a number of flight instructors from civilian as well as
Air Force background – everyone has his own way
of instructing methodically.
I was very much impressed by a civilian
instructor. He was well-educated, very methodical,
disciplined and a strict person with very few words.
He never discussed anything other than what is
concerned with flying training. He would always
demonstrate the exercise with pre-flight/post-flight
briefing.
I do remember his final briefing even to this day
– that everything in a pilot’s profession depends on
how smoothly he handles the aeroplane, practical
knowledge of weather, meticulous and accurate
40
During his weather briefing, he always insisted
that weather is never ‘bad’ as it is very much
essential for all living beings and created by
nature. He always referred it to as ‘severe weather
operations.’
Severe weather operations
Concerns run deep in the airline industry that
during flight situations that could quickly escalate
into emergencies, pilots might rely too heavily on
interacting with computerised flight systems instead
of looking out the windshield to point the nose
in the right direction, listening to the hum of the
engines and flying the plane. “Automation can dull
the discovery of a problem if a crew relies on it too
much,” an aviation expert says.
Emirates Airlines, based in Dubai, has added a
two-day manual flying class to its training regimen,
and it has substantially updated its rules on when
and how automation is used. A few other Middle
Eastern airlines are adopting the same change in
training philosophy.
flight planning, regulations, fuel uplift policy, and
making the right decisions on the ground and
during flight. (All these issues and more were part
of CRM and LOFT training, which were introduced
after the 1970s in Indian aviation).
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Before commencement of every flight, current
weather data is available on aviation weather
charts and can be accessed by computers or
smartphones beforehand and can be studied for
required flight at home. After reaching the company
dispatch section, current weather observations, en
route and destination weather, TAFAR’s, ROFOR’s
and Prognastic Charts are issued by the respective
meteorological department on behalf of IMD. It
will also include upper-air data such as winds,
temperature and height of tropopause, turbulence,
jet streams and volcanic ash activity on certain
routes touching the Polar regions. Harmful radiation
data also is available, with additional subscription
for the flights.
earlier contour or ISOECHO mode and can be
superimposed on the pilot’s navigation display (ND)
to bring reality with present route and waypoints.
Whatever may be the type of airborne weather
radar, it should be remembered that display does
not show the clouds. Radar targets only certaindimension water drops to large water drops
associated with updrafts/downdrafts related to
severe weather that is to be interpreted.
Radar basically requires a lot of experience
to operate during flight. In my flying career, I have
attended many courses on how to utilise and
interpret weather information. I walked away from
these with ‘singular’ thought. Nothing is same, as
every situation is different from time to time and
flight to flight. In short, practical interpretation works
at all times and situations. Radar operation is mainly
concerned with various adjustments of tilt, gain and
range, and requires considerable experience to
look ahead what you want to see. Today’s airlines
have issued the operational procedures in the
documents like SOPs – please follow that because
it supersedes other documents•
Despite all above services, the airborne weather
radar plays a paramount role as it provides instant
weather information visually to pilots. At the end
of World War II, continuous R&D in avionics and
weather detection equipment began at a rapid rate
in the USA, Europe, Japan and other advanced
countries of the world.
Reading the radar
Earlier, radar sets were working on ‘C’ band and
dish antenna with gyro-stabilising platform. The
display screen requires rubber hood, as display was
bright white against black background, which has
certain range limitations. Later versions (‘X’ band)
had advancements like disc-type, flat, perforated
antenna, and display was in bright satin-green
colour against black background. Today, we have
multi-colour digital weather radars differentiating
rainfall rates in corresponding colours such as
red, magenta, cyan, green and black, eliminating
Safety Messenger | April 2015
41
Safety
A
n air hostess’ main job is to ensure the
safety of the passengers. Once the flight
takes off, the flight attendants, including
air hostesses, are put in charge of all
passengers on board. Their task is to make sure
that everyone is safe, comfortable and are taken
care of. They are trained to handle discomforting
and terrifying events like turbulence, airpocket
situations, emergency landings, engine breakdown
and even plane hijacking. They monitor all situations,
including unusual smell, suspicious activities and
untoward attitude of the passengers.
GUARDIAN ANGELS
OF THE SKIES
After takeoff, air hostesses are normally seen
serving foods, checking on passengers and
attending to their needs. They also make sure that all
necessary equipment needed during emergencies
are readily available. Prior to takeoff, they must
ensure that all the safety and security features of the
plane are functioning and are activated.
Learning the hard way
Air hostess training is rigid. All flight attendants
undergo a series of training that normally lasts
for 6 months. They are given ample knowledge
regarding fundamentals of aviation, weather
monitoring, airplane basics, flight safety and
security and lessons on swimming, language,
grooming and proper decorum. While all of these
areas are deemed important to be able to handle
their job well, safety training is being given the
highest regard. The air hostess training regarding
Rhea George
More than an exciting profession, an air hostess’ career is unique in many ways. The
responsibilities of an air hostess are about the safety, security, welfare and satisfaction of
the passengers. Rhea George, who worked as an air hostess with Kuwait Airways, and now,
an aviation trainer and grooming in-charge with Frankfinn Institute of Air Hostess Training,
explains how important the role of an air hostess in ensuring the safety and comfort of the
passengers on board.
42
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
safety involves passenger-evacuation management
during emergencies, first-aid and CPR, handling of
emergency landing situations, jungle survival, sea
survival, desert survival, and security measures.
Many young people opt for cabin crew/
airhostess as a full-fledged career because of
the high salaries, exciting experience of flying
and interacting with different kinds of people on
board and visiting several countries. But, above all
these, this profession demands lot of hard work,
commitment, smartness and total dedication. The
job entails performing safety and service duties
which ensure that air travellers are flying in a safe
environment, while receiving excellent standards of
friendly service.
Life is always varied when you work as cabin
crew. Your training in communication, teamwork,
first-aid, personality development and customercare skills also will be helpful and can be transferred
to other areas of your life. The courses in in-flight
operations and hospitality industry prepare one to
handle the toughest moments while flying.
Handling tough situations
The first and most important duty of an air hostess
is to ensure the safety of passenger in any kind of
emergencies. For this, they are trained to protect
the passengers in emergency situations like aircraft
evacuation, ditching, decompression, firefighting,
passenger management and occurrences of other
safety-related issues.
43
immigration and other documents and helping the
passengers fill them, if required.
They are also expected to give special attention
to young children, the elderly and unwell passengers
by trying to make their flight as comfortable as
possible; checking the tickets of passengers;
assisting disabled ones; answering questions and
helping the passengers find vacant seats; following
health regulation of different countries; and spraying
the cabin with insect aerosols, etc.
Art of keeping cool
The job entails
performing safety
and service duties
which ensure that air
travellers are flying in
a safe environment,
while receiving
excellent standards of
friendly service.
Most importantly, an air hostess is expected to
help the passengers to be clam and patient during
critical situations. There have been instances of
air hostesses displaying exemplary courage and
even laying down their lives for the sake of their
passengers. It is an air hostess’s responsibility to
evacuate passengers from the plane during an
emergency.
The air hostess also has to undertake the role of
a firefighter during cabin fires. An airhostess should
have the knowledge of cabin firefighting equipment
and procedures. Fighting against fire is a vital crew
role wherein they have to be alert and spontaneous.
They must take immediate actions without waiting
for orders from the superiors.
Providing first-aid is another reason for having
airhostess on board. When an aircraft reaches
at a height of 33,000 feet over the middle of the
Atlantic Ocean, there is neither the availability of
hospital nor qualified medical professionals. So
the airhostess are trained in first-aid techniques,
including administration of certain controlled drugs,
resuscitation techniques, emergency childbirth, and
use of defibrillator machines.
Hectic routine
The job of an air hostess once she boards
the aircraft comprises welcoming the passengers
aboard;
meeting, greeting and seating the
passengers; supervising safety and seating
arrangement; making announcement about the
flight and answering questions; serving food and
beverages; selling duty-free goods including wines,
perfumes and jewellery items; supplying reading
material, blankets, pillow and toys; distributing
44
An air hostess has to keep her cool even in the
midst of the gravest situations on board. During
sudden, emergency situations like hijacking, plane
crash or any other unexpected errors or engine
failures, an air hostess must act calmly and with
commonsense and take control of the situation.
If panicked, she will not be able to control the
passengers. When emergency situations occur,
there is a lot of havoc and chaos expected inside the
cabin. While keeping the self-control, a cabin crew
should take up the responsibility to inspire trust and
confidence among passengers and colleagues.
Air hostesses must be prepared to provide
direction and instruction for emergency landing
and assist passengers out of emergency exists
with emergency equipment. Should a medical
emergency occur during flight, an air hostess
assesses the condition of the passenger, perform
first-aid and, if needed, inform the cockpit about it.
In case of hijack or other threats, air hostess
act as a mediator between the deck crew and the
hijackers and do what is told by the hijackers. Every
company has some mandatory training methods
to be followed and it is given to all crewmembers
before they fly. If a passenger engages in any
unsafe behaviour during the flight, an airhostess
must respond by informing the passenger about
the infraction and enforce safety procedures, if
necessary. She can inform the superiors if the
situation goes out of their hands.
Need for special skill set
Safety is an accumulation of knowledge about
risk converted into practice, and no other mode of
transportation has been as expansive as flying. From
the plane seats to the cabin air to the course and
altitude of the flight, every decision in commercial
aviation comes after careful consideration of its
impact on safety. That is how life on air becomes
very safe.
The skill set needed by an air hostess comprises
ability to remain pleasant and presentable no
matter how much the pressure is, stay fit, have a
good complexion, good eyesight, team spirit, ability
to handle difficult situations and deal with them
independently•
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety
MAKE OFFICIAL
TRAVEL SAFE
Over a quarter of all road traffic incidents may involve somebody who
is driving as a part of one’s work at the time. Health and safety law
applies to work activities on the road in the same way as it does to all
other work activities, and you need to manage the risks to the drivers
as a part of your health and safety arrangements.
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Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
C Mahadevan
V
ery few Indian companies have travel
safety policy. Every year, a number of fatal
accidents are reported while travelling on
official duty in two-wheelers, cars, bus or
other means like train and air travel. All companies
do not keep records of such fatal or other injuries
happened during travel unless the company
management has this aspect covered in their
47
as per general Health and Safety Legislation, which
covers all employers and employees at workplaces.
This includes risks presented by driving at work.
HSE policy and related instructions. Most persons
involved in such accidents are officers, staffers or
workers, members from sales /marketing / logistics
groups or even operations, especially sales
representatives of pharmaceutical companies who
have to travel daily for sales-related matters. Many
companies have not issued any safety directives
to follow safety norms during such official travels.
Even top executives do not follow safety norms
while travelling in a car or taxi to catch a flight. They
do not plan their trip properly, with the result that
they have to ask the company driver or taxi driver to
RUSH within the unplanned short period, resulting
in even fatal accidents.
Effective management of work-related road
safety helps reduce risk, no matter what size your
organisation is. It could also result in fewer injuries
to drivers, reduced risk of work-related ill-health,
reduced stress and improved morale. Health and
safety law does not apply to people commuting/
travelling between their home and their usual
place of work, unless they are travelling from their
home to some other place which is not their usual
place of work. Those who drive are often exposing
themselves to the risks during road use.
Risks of driving on official duty
Whether employers provide vehicles or expect
employees to drive their own for work purposes,
all employers should have a policy to address the
issues.
Health and Safety Executive (HSE) of the United
Kingdom estimates that up to 33% of all road traffic
accidents involve somebody who is at work at the
time. This may account for 100 fatalities in Scotland
a year and over 20 fatalities and 250 serious injuries
a week in the UK. Such accident figures are not
available in India; maybe a few companies keep
such records. If one of your employees is killed,
for example, while driving for work, and there is
evidence that serious management failures resulted
in a gross breach of a relevant duty of care, the
company could be at risk of prosecution as per HSE
In addition, the various the UK Road Traffic Acts
have many provisions, which may apply to either
the vehicles or the drivers. The employers should
ensure that they comply with the relevant sections.
As mentioned earlier, there are no statutory
regulations on travel safety, but the Motor Vehicles
Act/Rules cover many of the safety norms required
to be followed by the drivers.
The drivers are required to comply with the Motor
Vehicles Act/Rules on highway and other guidance
related to driving.
Drivers’ hours in UK
Driving hours of goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes
and some passenger vehicles are regulated by the
European Community rules. These set limits on
driver’s hours:
• Daily driving limit: 9 hours*
Reducing risks
regulations.
• Maximum driving limit: 4 ½ hours
It has been estimated that between 800 and
1,000 road deaths a year are in some way workrelated. Many bosses have ignored this problem in
the past, but the Health and Safety Executive has
now made it clear that employers have duties under
health and safety law to manage the risks faced
by their workers on the road. Such regulations
are not in Indian factories act or other Indian
statutory regulations. Few companies have insured
employees while coming to work from home till
they reach factory and going back from factory till
they reach home. Accidents happening while such
employees are inside factory site are covered by
the Factories Act, like driving cars, trucks, tankers,
heavy vehicles, and trailers.
• Daily rest period: 11 hours
One place to start is to select appropriate
vehicles for the type of work you expect your drivers
to carry out. The selection of drivers (drivers include
persons who drive two-wheelers and cars on official
duty) is also important, and you should ensure that
only fully trained, appropriately licensed, competent
drivers are employed. The driver must undergo
special travel-safety training programme along
with defensive driving techniques, and all other
driving regulations including wearing of helmets
while driving two-wheelers and safetybelt while in
vehicles.
It is, therefore, vital that employers take steps
to reduce the risks associated with driving at work
and the employees to follow safety norms while
travelling on duty.
• Weekly driving limit: 56 hours
• Fortnightly driving limit: 90 hours
• Weekly rest period: 45 consecutive hours**
* Can be extended to 10 hours no more than
twice a week.
** May be reduced to 36 hours if taken at
normal base, or 24 hours if taken elsewhere.
Drivers operating within the UK exempt from the
European law will be subject to the Transport Act,
1968, which lays down the following limits:
• Daily duty: 11 hours maximum
No such specific rules or regulations are in India
at present. It is recommended to have such detailed
• Select company vehicles and allocate driving
duties carefully
 Attending cellphone
while driving is a risky
affair.
• Consider whether face-to-face meetings that
require participants to drive are necessary: could
telephone or video conferencing be used instead?
• Consider whether driving is the only option:
could people walk, cycle, or use public transport?
Could a delivery service be used instead?
Those at most risk
• Avoid setting unrealistic delivery schedules or
deadlines, which may encourage drivers to exceed
speed limits or take shortcuts or other risks
• Ensure that drivers do not use mobile phones
while driving. If this is unavoidable, they must be
provided with an appropriate hands-free set.
Policy for driving at work
Organisations should draw up a policy for
driving at work. It should include measures for staff
using their own cars for work purposes.
Legal duties and obligations
In the UK, it is the moral duty of the employers to
protect the employees and members of the public
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Other steps include:
• Daily driving: 10 hours maximum
Bus drivers, other heavy vehicle drivers and
delivery drivers can spend their whole working
day driving, these are the higher profile driving
occupations, but company representatives like
sales, marketing executives and maintenance
workers who drives as a part of his or her work
are at risk. This includes staff driving to meetings,
seminars, events, visiting customers or clients and
driving between company’s own sites.
48
special restrictions in the Motor Vehicles Act/Rules
while travelling on official duty.
As a part of any policy for driving at work, the
employers should do the following:
Safety Messenger | April 2015
49
safety equipment like seatbelts, how to use antilock braking system (ABS) properly, what to do to
ensure they are safe if their vehicle breaks down,
for example, use safety warning triangles and highvisibility jackets. Drivers must follow all rules related
to the Motor Vehicles Act/Rules.
•
Make it clear that the employees must
maintain their vehicles in a roadworthy condition if
they are to use their own vehicle for work
• Ensure that if the vehicle is over 15 years old,
it has a valid fitness certificate
• Ensure that the employee has appropriate
insurance with cover for using the vehicle for
business use (the employee should present copies
of certificates annually for inspection)
• Prepare and follow written instructions and
guidance, training sessions or group meetings to
help you communicate your policy more effectively
•
Check the validity of driving licences on
recruitment and periodically afterwards
•
Ensure systems to report in writing,
investigating, analysing and recommending
actions to prevent recurrence along with status on
recommended action plans
• Drivers must be properly trained with priority
to those at the highest risk, like poor accident
record. New drivers must be given induction training.
Training must cover defensive driving techniques
and how to load and unload safely. Extend training
to cyclists and two-wheelers.
• Drivers must know how to carry out routine
safety checks such as those on lights, tyres and
wheel fixings, and report and correct any faults.
They should also know how to adjust correctly
• Ensure that the employees informs their line
manager of any changes in circumstances such as
penalty points, changes in insurer or vehicle used
or use of any prescription medication or changes to
health that affect their ability to drive safely
Employee drivers should:
•
Report any vehicle defects to their line
manager and never drive defective vehicles
• Be aware of what action needs to be taken in
an emergency situation
• Ensure they are physically fit to drive
•
Inform the line manager of any health
problems or personal circumstances that could
make driving hazardous
• Never drive while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs
• Remember that some prescription drugs can
adversely affect the ability to drive, so check with
doctor or pharmacist
• Have regular eye tests and ensure that any
necessary corrective eyewear is worn, and avoid
using a mobile phone while driving
• Drive within speed limits and to the speed
dictated by conditions, which may mean driving at
less than the limit
• Follow advice on route planning supplied by
line management
• Ensure that suitable breaks are included to
prevent fatigue
• Allow extra journey time and breaks where
required, to allow for bad weather, traffic congestion,
etc.
• Stay calm and relaxed while driving, and try
to avoid situations which could lead to stress or
road rage
• Be aware that fatigue is more of a problem
at certain times of day and when nearing the end of
a long journey. There is an increased likelihood of
falling asleep in the afternoon and in the early hours
of the morning.
• Plan and consider how, as a driver, you
would take responsibility for vulnerable passengers
or cargo in the event of a breakdown or other
emergency
The Government or the RTO must design
programmes to enable companies to conduct
awareness sessions with the employees who drive
as a part of their work.
Additional driver assessment
Many employers carry out internal assessments
of driving skills in addition to the minimum legal
requirements. This can be done in-house or by an
external assessor.
If the drivers are being asked to drive vehicles
like minibuses, then the employers can require
additional qualifications as proof of abilities. Some
employers offer specific training in safe driving
techniques for their employees.
Diving for travel agencies/transport
contractors
Many charitable and voluntary groups expect the
employees and volunteers to use their own vehicles
to carry out business. Usually, the car user will be
paid a certain amount per mile to cover the cost of
petrol, wear and tear on the car, and other general
running costs such as servicing and insurance.
In these cases, the employee is required to
ensure that the car user’s insurance covers the
use of the vehicle not only for the normal ‘social,
domestic and pleasure purposes’ but also for use
by the policyholder in connection with his work.
Where groups make use of volunteers using their
car for the business of the charity, whether or not
they claim for the journey, the driver must make sure
that the car insurer is aware of the circumstances.
The Association of British Insurers has produced a
model letter for such a purpose and a copy of this
should be available from the insurer.
It is, therefore, vital
that employers take
steps to reduce the
risks associated with
driving at work and the
employees to follow
safety norms while
travelling on duty.
 Accident at work place
Most insurers do not charge any extra premium
for volunteers using their cars to assist a charity or
community organisation. However, if a volunteer
fails to notify his insurer regarding such use, then the
insurance policy can be invalidated and the driver
could be held personally liable for any damage or
injuries suffered in an accident.
If organisations are using employees or
volunteers to provide transport or drivers for users
of their services, then they should aim to follow
the main good-practice standards outlined for
employers in developing a driving-at-work policy as
given above.
Special care
There is a need for special care of the employees
on official travel going to countries with disturbances
like terrorists/strikes/other disturbances.
Before preparing the travel plan, especially out
of the location, it is essential to find out the details of
the current news and conditions of the place you are
travelling. Check whether there is any major local
disturbances, riots, terrorist problem, strikes, etc.
Do not undertake immediate travel to such places.
Postpone the travel. If urgent, contact/communicate
by other means like telephone•
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Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
51
HSE Training
A
nyone entering premises for the purposes
of carrying out specialized work for
the client, owner or occupier must be
regarded as a ‘Contractor’ to whom duties
are owned, including such people as caterers,
window cleaners, agency staff, equipment repairers
and servicers.
Financial pressures, whether real or perceived,
are nearly always present and the acceptance of
the lowest bid in competitive tendering is often at
the expense of health and safety standards. Other
major factors include a transient labour force which
never gets properly or fully trained, the small size of
most contracting companies which claim not to be
aware of legislation or safe practices, the inherent
danger of the work and work conditions, pressure
of work, and poor management awareness of the
need for safety arrangements.
When contractors are working on site the
occupier needs to ensure that applicable legislation
is being complied with including the company’s
Safety Policy.
The following are terms that are used when
dealing with contractors:
Client
It is the party for whom the work or a project is
being carried out.
Contractor
This term commonly applied to those who
visit the premises of others to carry out work. The
contractor is the person with whom the client places
the order. This can be in connection with the provision
of catering services or the cleaning of premises
as well as the repair, maintenance, refurbishment
or installation of plant and equipment, or building
alterations. Contractors can be employers,
employees of third parties or self employed people.
Sub Contractors
The subcontractors are usually defined as a
contractor who has been engaged by the main
contractor rather than the client. However this term
is sometimes used to describe a contractor.
Responsibilities of Clients
Clients (as employers)should protect contractors
as well as their own workforce from health risks
as personal injury and conduct all undertakings
in such a way as to ensure that members of the
public around or entering their premises are also
protected.
Management Strategy for Working
with Contractors
There are six main elements to a Management
Management of
Contractors
S
Jayas Manadath
52
afety Messenger continues with the syllabus of NEBOSH (National Examination
Board in Occupational Safety and Health), a UK based independent examination
board delivering vocational qualifications in health, safety & environmental practice
and management. Safety Messenger is neither an approved trainer nor an accredited
agency for NEBOSH, but those who attend the training in any accredited schools
can get tips for preparing NEBOSH exam through the pages of the magazine. Jayas
Manadath, Authorised trainer for NEBOSH, takes you to major health and safety roles
and responsibilities of various people in a workforce. This part of syllabus discusses
on the roles, responsibilities and rights of Contractors, Safety Representatives and
Safety Committees. Visit the following websites also: www.hse.gov.uk |www.osha.gov
| http://www.iosh.co.uk| www.iso.org
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
53
Strategy for successful working with contractors.
The extent to which each element is relevant will
depend upon the degree of risk and nature of work
to be contracted.
Financial pressures
may be present and
the acceptance of
the lowest bid in
competitive tendering
may be at the expense
of health and safety
standards.
The elements are:
1. Identification of suitable contractors
2. Identification of hazards within the specification
3. Checking of (health and safety aspects of) bids
and selection of contractor
5. Management of the contractor’s activities on
site
Identification of suitable Contractors
Reputation amongst previous or current clients
c)
Content and quality of safety policy
d)
Content and quality of risk assessments
e)
Training and qualifications of staff
f)
Accident /enforcement record
g)
Membership of approved trade bodies
h) Records
inspections
of
maintenance
i)
Method Statements
j)
Suitable Insurance
and
statutory
Identification of Hazards within the
Specification
A checklist could be followed which will give a
pointer to most, if not all, of the common health and
safety problems which may arise during the work.
These should be communicated to the contractor
in the specification before the bid is made. The
received bid must be compared with the checklist
to ensure that proper provision is being made for
the control of risks identified.
Checking the Bid
When the bids are returned, it should be
possible to distinguish the potentially competent.
An “approved list” of contractors, scrutinized at
intervals, can save the need for carrying out a
complete re-selection process.
Financial pressures may be present and
the acceptance of the lowest bid in competitive
tendering may be at the expense of health and
safety standards. However the lowest tender is not
always the worst as there could be a large number
of reasons for it being the lowest but it needs to
be closely examined against the specification and
54
5. Participation in Safety Committees on site
by contractors.
8. The client must set a good example by
following all site rules.
When assessing the Health and Safety
competence of a contractor, the following factors
should be considered:
b)
Arrangement of regular progress meetings
4. Regular (at least weekly) inspections of the
contractor’s operations by the client.
7. The form of reporting to the client by the
contractor of accidents and dangerous occurrences,
including those to sub-contractors.
6. Checking after completion of contract
Previous experience with the type work
3.
6. Provision by the contractor of written
method statements in advance of undertaking
particular work, as agreed.
4. Contractor agrees to be subject to client’s rules
a)
Communication paths should be developed to pass
on all relevant safety information to those doing the
work. Any permitted borrowing of equipment should
be formally discussed at this time.
9. Provide adequate safety
including posters and handbooks.
10.No machinery allowed on site until
documentation on statutory inspections has
been seen, including details of driver training and
experience.
requirements of the tender document.
Safety Rules
A basic principle of control is that as much
as possible should be set down in detail in the
contract. An Important condition should be that the
contractor agrees to abide by all the provisions of
the client’s safety policy. Often the contractor may
delegate all or part of the contract to other subcontractors. It is essential to ensure that the subcontractors are as aware as the original contractor
of the site rules and policies and also the client is
made aware of the use of these sub-contractors.
This can be done by an attachment to the contract
requiring the contractor to notify the client of who
they are and the contractor undertakes to inform
any sub-contractors of all safety requirements, and
monitor their performance.
literature,
The contractor is the
person with whom
the client places the
order. This can be in
connection with the
provision of catering
services or the
cleaning of premises
as well as the
repair, maintenance,
refurbishment or
installation of plant
and equipment, or
building alterations.
11. Monitor the contractor’s safety training
programme.
Contract Completion
The contractor should leave the worksite clean
and tidy, removing all waste, materials, tools and
equipment. This should be checked.
Health and Safety Consultation
The ILO Occupational Safety and Health
Convention, C155 states that:
‘Co-operation between management and
workers and /or their representatives within the
undertaking shall be an essential element of
Written orders containing detailed terms
and conditions such as the above should be
acknowledged by the contractor before work starts.
The loan of tools and equipment by the client should
be avoided unless part of the original contractual
arrangement. Areas of concern which should be
covered by general site rules and within the client’s
safety policy should be communicated to the
contractor.
organizational and other measures taken’.
Employers should, where appropriate, enable in
accordance with national practice the appointment
of workers’ health and safety representatives and
establish health and safety committees. Wherever
possible the Safety Representatives should have
suitable experience of the work activities.
Functions of Safety Representatives
The functions of a Safety Representative can
include:
•
Investigate
potential
hazards
and
dangerous occurrences and examine the cause of
accidents at the workplace
•
Investigate complaints by any employee
they represents
•
Make representations to the employer
concerning health hazards, dangerous occurrences
and accidents
•
Make representations on general matters
affecting the health, safety and welfare of employees
at the workplace
•
Carry out inspections at regularly agreed
intervals
•
Consult with the enforcement authorities
as to any information acquired by inspectors in the
course of their activities, or action that they have
taken or propose to take against their employer
•
Attend meetings of the Safety Committee
in the capacity of Safety Representative.
The Safety Representative should also take all
reasonable steps to keep themselves informed of:
•
The legal requirements relating to health
and safety of persons at work, particularly the
persons they directly represent.
•
The particular hazards of the workplace
and the measures deemed necessary to eliminate
or minimize the risk deriving from these hazards.
•
The health and safety policy of their
employer and the organization and arrangements
fulfilling that policy.
The Safety Representatives should also:
•
Encourage co-operation between their
employer and employees in promoting and
developing essential measures to ensure the health
and safety of employees and check effectiveness of
these measures.
Management of Contractors on Site
•
Bring to their employer’s attention any
unsafe, unhealthy conditions or working practices
which come to their attention.
The following measures are essential for all
large contractor operations:
1. Appointment /nomination of a person
or team to co-ordinate all aspects of the contract,
including health and safety matters.
The Safety Representatives should also be
given reasonable time off with pay (during normal
working hours) in order to pursue their functions and
to undertake such training that will equip them to
perform those functions more efficiently.
2. A pre Contract commencement meeting
held with the contractor and sub-contractors is
necessary, to review all safety aspects of the work.
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55
Employers should,
where appropriate,
enable in accordance
with national practice
the appointment of
workers’ health and
safety representatives
and establish
health and safety
committees.
To enable the Safety Representatives to carry
out their responsibility it may be useful for them to
see documents such as:
the purposes of carrying out their duties, e.g. use
of phone, stationery, a room to conduct interviews,
access to safety publications, etc.
• Information about the plans and performance
and changes proposed that affect the health and
safety at work of employees
In workplaces where employees are not
represented by safety representatives, employers
should consult with or inform their employees on
health and safety matters such as:-
• Information of technical nature about hazards
to health and safety and precautions deemed
necessary to eliminate or reduce then in respect of
machines, plants and substances, etc.
• Information kept in relation to accidents,
dangerous occurrences or industrial diseases
• Any other information specifically related to
matters affecting the health and safety at work of
employees, including results of any measurements
taken in checking the effectiveness of health and
safety arrangements.
The employer does not have to provide the Safety
Representative with any information which:
• Is against the interest of national security
• Any information which could not be disclosed
without contravening a prohibition imposed under
law
• Any information relating specially to an individual
unless he has consented to it being disclosed
• Information which for reasons other than health
and safety or welfare at work cause injury to the
employer’s undertaking
• Any information obtained by the employers for
the purpose of bringing, prosecuting or defending
any legal proceedings
• The employer is not required to produce or allow
inspection of any document which is not related to
health, safety or welfare.
Rights of Safety Representatives
The ILO Occupational Safety and Health
56
• Introduction of measures that affect their health
and safety
• New processes and technology
• New organization of work patterns
Convention, C155 requires that Health and Safety
Representatives:
• Have access to all parts of the workplace and
be able to communicate with the workers on safety
and health matters during working hours at the
workplace
• New personal protective equipment
• The planning and organization of any training
required
Consulting is a two way process and involves
listening to employees’ views and taking account of
what they say before any decision is taken.
discusses only the items on the agenda.
• Be given protection from dismissal and other
measures prejudicial to them while exercising their
functions in the field of occupational safety and
health as workers’ representatives or as members
of safety and health committees
Informing is a one way process providing
employees with information.
1. The study of accident/notifiable disease
statistics so that recommendations can be made
• Be able to contribute to the decision making
process at the level of the undertaking regarding
matters of safety and health
The membership and structure of a Safety
Committee is a matter for agreement between the
employer and, if it exists, a workers union at the
particular workplace. If there are no workers union
the employer may ask for volunteers. There is no set
structure for a committee.
•
Be free to contact enforcement inspectors
• Be able to contribute to negotiations in the
undertaking of occupational safety and health
matters of
• Be given appropriate training in occupational
safety and health
• Have reasonable time during paid working
hours to exercise their safety and health functions.
To enable the Safety Representatives to fulfill
their functions, the employers should provide the
Safety Representatives with reasonable facilities for
Safety Messenger | April 2015
SAFETY COMMITTEES
Membership
The committee should be a competent body
representing the interest of employees and
management alike. The number of management
representatives should not exceed the number
of Safety Representatives and should include line
managers, engineers, HR Managers, Safety Officers
as well as supervisors.
Conduct of Safety Committees
The frequency of meetings depends on local
conditions and the degree of risk. Meetings should
be planned well in advance to avoid postponements
and cancellations.
The Agenda should consist of:
2. Examination of Audit Reports
3. Analysis of reports provided by Inspectors
4.
Consideration
Representatives
of
reports
by
Safety
5. Development and monitoring of work safety
rules and safe systems of work
6. Constant appraisal of effectiveness of safety
training
7. Monitor the adequacy of health and safety
communications
8. Establish a link with the appropriate Inspectors
Whilst management is ultimately responsible
for all health and safety provisions, the work of the
Safety Committee must be seen as supplementing
the arrangements introduced by management
for ensuring the health, safety and welfare of all
employees.
The factors that may determine the effectiveness
of a Safety Committee may be:
• Clear Terms of Reference
The minutes of each meeting should be
distributed amongst each member of the committee,
with additional copies made available for general
distribution or by displaying in prominent locations.
• Balanced representation
Objectives and Functions
• Good leadership and chairmanship
The objective of every Safety Committee must
be to promote co-operation between employer
and employees to ensure employees’ health
and safety at work. A Safety Committee should
consider drawing up agreed objectives and terms
of reference.
• Good communication channels
An important part of making Safety Committees
work is to ensure that there is a clear agenda for the
meeting and this is followed so that the committee
• Agenda not led by Industrial Relations
Safety Messenger | April 2015
The committee should
be a competent body
representing the
interest of employees
and management alike.
• Actual influence in decision making
• Respect of management and workforce
• Commitment from committee members
• Access to relevant information and specialist
advice
• Formalised procedures with agendas
• Relevant and non trivial agenda items
Ineffective committee is the opposite of the
above•
57
Safety
CONDOM USE UP
WORLDWIDE
Condoms have come to stay in safe sex practices. The global condom
industry is forecast to hit a market value of US $5.4 billion by 2018, with
the industry set to be driven by the growing concern over the spread
of various sexually transmitted diseases, particularly HIV/AIDS and the
need for a safe and cost-effective method of contraception.
E
vidence of condom use dates back to 1220
B.C. in Egypt, according to Durex, a leading
international brand of condoms. Today, the
condom is more than a contraceptive and
is a part of modern day sex culture and even a
sexual fashion statement. Though condoms played
a vital role in the 1960s and 1970s in protection
from sexually transmitted diseases like syphilis and
gonorrhoea, the main use of a condom remained
for contraception purposes. One of the most
devastating diseases to affect humanity is AIDS.
As of 2011, about 35 million people were
surviving with this life-threatening infection
worldwide, while over 2.5 million newly infected
cases were reported. In terms of death toll since
the spread of the disease, about 30 million people
have succumbed to date, with the year 2011 alone
58
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
59
accounting for over 1.7 million deaths.
Thriving market
The condoms market, of late, has opened up to
the introduction of new pleasure-oriented condoms,
in contrast to conventional condoms, such as latex
rubber, polyurethane, lambskin, lubricated, and
spermicidal types of condoms. Other noteworthy
market trends include launch of thinner condoms,
increased focus on younger generation and
women, use of nitrile polymer for female condoms,
innovative packaging and labelling of condoms,
and line extensions.
Distribution-wise, condoms are increasingly
being picked up from self-service counters available
at drug stores, supermarkets, and more specifically
online. Europe represents the largest market for
condoms in terms of value, accounting for about
25% share of the global market. However, in terms
of volume, Asia-Pacific dominates owing to its
huge population, growth in public awareness, and
increased governmental support.
 Condom manufacturing
unit of Hindustan Latex
factory
The Asia-Pacific market for condoms is forecast
to register the fastest growth, both in value and
volume terms, and is likely grow at a compounded
annual growth rate of over 6% value-wise during
the years 2007 through 2015. In the majority of
underdeveloped regions, there still prevails a high
degree of ignorance pertaining to knowledge and
correct use of condoms. Several organisations,
throughout the world, are therefore taking up
aggressive social marketing across all commercial
and professional media.
Chinese condom industry is on the fast track
of growth and is increasing by 9.77% year on year.
The annual growth rate of domestic condom sales
volume in 2011-2012 was lower than had been
forecasted in 2009, mainly because of the declining
volume of government purchase and the lack of
influential new products in the Chinese condom
market.
By far, latex condoms represent the vast majority
of the industry’s products. Latex is a naturally
occurring rubber found in plants and trees. Its
widespread availability and minimal need for further
processing make it a cost-effective solution for
condom manufacturers.
Brands
If you must have sex, use
Cupid Condoms . . . .
CONDOMS ARE THE PROVEN TOOL FOR PREVENTION OF
UNWANTED PREGNANCIES AND TRANSMISSION OF STIs INCLUDING HIV.
At present, there are over 13 players in the
global condom industry, with strong selling brands
including Lifestyles, Beyond Seven, Trustex, Inspiral,
Kimono, Pleasure Plus, Crown, Paradise, Okamoto,
Ria, and Impulse. Female Condom 2 (FC2) is the
leading nitrile polymer female condom available.
Durex is one of the leading condom
manufacturers, with over 75 years of tradition. Durex
holds about 22% of the global branded condom
market, and Durex condoms are sold in over 140
countries. The brand name Durex was registered
back in 1929, and the name was derived from this
three words: Durability, Reliability and Excellence.
 A female condom
CONDOMS ARE PROVEN TO BE VERY USE FULL TOOL
TO ENJOY SEX WITHOUT FEAR OF GETTING PREGNANT.
Cupid’s Female Condoms are uniquely designed to be retained in the
vagina during intercourse and also helps to enhance sexual pleasure.
Trojan Condoms are America’s best selling
condoms with over 20 different condoms in its
assortment. They have been available in the market
for 90 years, since Youngs Rubber Company,
established by Merle Youngs, introduced Trojan line
of condoms in 1920.
Lifestyles Condoms, one of the popular brands
of condoms, are manufactured by Australian
company Ansell Limited, formerly known as Pacific
Dunlop Limited. They are available in a broad
selection of various condom styles and sizes with
over 20 condom types. Customers can choose
between different size of Lifestyles condoms,
different textures, colours, flavors and thickness.
We help the world play safe. . .
Condom usage
Condoms can reduce your risk of getting an STI,
but only protect the skin that is covered. Ultimately, it
is your sexual health, and you have to choose when,
60
Safety Messenger | April 2015
March - 2015
(Listed company in Mumbai Stock Exchange)
E-mail: omgarg@cupidlimited.com
Website: www.cupidltd.com
Health
Tips for
safe sex
For vaginal, anal and oral sex, you should use
condoms. Points to keep in mind include:
• The male condom is a fine, strong, latexrubber sheath available in a variety of sizes and
styles. Condoms made from polyurethane are
available for people allergic to latex.
• The female condom resembles a regular
condom made of polyurethane, but is designed
to fit inside the vagina. The female condom is
pre-lubricated and is ‘one size fits all’
where and how you want to have sex. In the West,
as much as 39% of sexually active students reported
they only used condoms ‘sometimes’ when they
had sex, and a small 13% – but nonetheless notable
proportion – ‘never’ used condoms.
Some people may intend to use condom, but
do not use it in the heat of the moment. Studies
show that 42% of young people do not always carry
condom. Many others find it difficult to ask partners
to use them, either through embarrassment or
because they do not know how to handle it.
Other than not having sex at all, condoms offer
the best protection from STI. Always be prepared
by carrying condoms with you. However, a condom
is only effective when it covers the infected area. If
you are in a long-term relationship and want to have
sex without condoms, it is better that you and your
partner get tested first. Remember that you may not
see any obvious signs of an STI, but you or your
partner may have one and not know it. If you change
partners, you will need to use condoms again to
stay safe.
Female condom
Condoms are not just for males to wear. The
female condom is a thin sheath or pouch inserted
into the vagina prior to intercourse. It lines the vagina
and helps prevent pregnancy and STI. Female
condoms are a good option for people with latex
allergy because they are made of polyurethane.
Female condoms are available from pharmacies,
family planning clinics, and some sexual health and
female health clinics•
62
The Asia-Pacific
market for condoms is
forecast to register the
fastest growth, both
in value and volume
terms, and is likely
grow at a compounded
annual growth rate of
over 6% value-wise
during the years 2007
through 2015.
 A scene from an
awareness campaign
• Use other barrier methods, for example,
condoms on dildos and other penetrative sex
toys, a latex glove for digital penetration of the
vagina or anus, and a dental dam (a sheet of
latex worn over the female genitals) during oral
sex
• A diaphragm (a cap worn high in the vagina
to cover the cervix) offers good protection against
pregnancy but low protection against STIs.
• To be effective, condoms must be used from
the start of sex to the very end
• Always use a new, lubricated condom every
time you have sex. Check the use-by date and
open the packet, being careful not to tear the
condom with fingernails, jewellery or teeth
• If you need extra lubricant, use only waterbased lubricants. Other lubricants can damage
the condom
• Having sex with only one partner, when
neither of you has any STIs, is the safest way to
have sex
• Be STI-free by getting tested for common
infections and having treatment if necessary,
especially if you have a new partner. Avoid sexual
contact until the doctor or nurse tells you that you
are no longer infectious
Breast Cancer Rates
Soaring in India
• Communicate with your sexual partner about
what you want and enjoy sexually
• Be aware that drugs and alcohol may affect
your ability to make good decisions. Protect
yourself from having sex that you might regret
or were pressured into because you weren’t
thinking properly•
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Breast cancer is a kind of cancer that develops from breast cells. The vast majority of breast
cancer cases occur in females. This article by Dr. C.N Mohanan Nair, Cancer specialist, focuses
on the breast cancer in women and various treatment options available for the cure.
Dr. Mahanan Nair
B
Safety Messenger | April 2015
reast Cancer is the most common cancer
among the women worldwide. There were
an estimated 1.7 million new cases of and
5 million deaths from breast cancer in
2014. Breast cancer accounts for 27% of all newly
occurring cancers worldwide and approximately
15% of all cancer deaths in 2014. It is estimated
that 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast
cancer in their lifetime in low and middle income
countries. There have been rising incidents of
breast cancer due to increasing life expectancy,
urbanization, and adoption of western lifestyles.
There are over 1.15 lakhs new breast cancer
cases reported every year in India.
Breast cancer is not a new disease. It has
been known as long as history has been recorded.
Herodotus in his “History” described Atossa (wife of
Darius, King of Persia) having Breast Cancer from
63
 An ultrasound scan
which reveals a breast
cancer lump
Family History
EXCISION BIOPSY
Having a relative with breast cancer puts you
at a higher risk (A relative means mother, sister,
daughter, maternal or paternal aunt or grandmother)
nulliparity and age at first full- term Pregnancy.
The whole lump is removed and studied under a
microscope. Based on the examinations, the doctor
may decide about further tests such as Blood
examination, X-ray chest, CT scan, Bone Scan etc.
Nulliparity: (Those women who do not conceive
or cannot conceive) and late age at first pregnancy
increases the risk. Having your first child after 30
years puts you at higher risk.
Treatment options
Having been diagnosed with breast cancer,
you may be going through all kinds of feelings. You
may be worried and anxious. You may be shocked
or feeling alone. It may be very hard for you to
concentrate. These reactions are very normal. You
are likely to have many questions about various
treatments.
Lactation: Recent investigations have shown
that if breast feeding continues longer than six
months there may be protective effects.
Symptoms
which she died in 400 BC.
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast Cancer is a tumor within the breast. The
majority of breast cancer begins in the milk duct. It
can also arise in milk sac.
Warning Signs
• A Lump or thickening in the breast or in the
under arm.
Breasts are made up of tiny sacs (glands) which
produce milk after child birth. The glands empty in
to the duct which leads to the nipples - and milk
is secreted through the nipple. The Breast are
supported by ligaments (cord like structure) and
muscles attached to the chest wall.
• A marks or lump
• Change in shape or size of breast
• Change in feel or appearance of skin on breast
or nipple (dimpled, scaly)
• Redness of skin on breast or nipple
All breast lumps cannot be considered as cancer
since most lumps are benign (non cancerous). They
may be a cyst (cavity) containing fluid or growth from
the supporting tissues which can be easily treated.
• A marble like hardening under the skin
• An area that looks or feels different than the rest
of the breast
• Blood stain or clear fluid from the nipple.
Causes and Factors
The causes of breast cancer is multi-factorials
involving endocrine gland reproductive factors
including nulliparity, first birth after 30 years, lack
of breast feeding and lifestyle factors. High calorie
diet, lack of exercise, consumption of alcoholic
beverages, overweight and obesity, use of certain
contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy.
Every woman has the chance of developing breast
Cancer during her life time. But there are some risk
factors associated with breast Cancer. Those who
have got the following risk factors have a higher risk
for developing the disease.
 Breat feeding your
child helps prevent cancer
A woman should see her doctor if she notice any
of these changes. Most often, these changes may not
be due to cancer, but only a doctor can tell for sure.
BREAST CANCER – DIAGNOSIS
 Fine needle aspiration
A Lump or other changes in the breast can be
caused by Cancer or by other, less serious problems.
To find out the cause of any of these changes, the
doctor does a careful physical examination and
asks about her personal and family medical history.
Surgery is the most commonly used initial
treatment. Probably the most difficult decision is
the kind of operations you will have to have for your
breast cancer. You will have several choices. You
may have one of several operations.
1.Lumpectomy is the removal of the
breast lump with surrounding normal tissue while
preserving the structure of breast.
2.
The following tests may be used to diagnose
breast cancer. You may have one or two of the tests,
or a combination.
Mastectomy is the total removal of breast
3. Axcillary dissection is removal of some or
all of the lymph nodes in the armpit.
Today, the most common surgery for breast
cancer in our country is Mastectomy auxiliary
dissection. The second most common operation
today is Lumpectomy with Axcillary dissection this
is also called Breast Conserving Surgery (BCS).
MAMMOGRAM
It is a low-dose X-ray examination of the breast
tissue. It has the ability to detect the cancer in the
breast. Long before when it is quiet small, it may be
felt by breast examination. 85 to 90% of all breast
cancer can be detected by mammography. It can
give the doctor important information about a breast
lump.
 Chemotherapy
performed on a patient
There are some factors that determine whether
you must undergo an operation which saves your
breasts. Most of the time, BCS is done only for early
ULTRA SONOGRAPHY
Ultrasound waves are used to build up a picture
of the breast tissue. Ultrasound can often tell
whether a lump is solid or is a fluid filled cyst. It can
also often tell whether a solid lump is likely to benign
or malignant. This examination may be used along
with Mammography.
Age is a factor for breast cancer development.
The incidence of breast cancer increases with
the age of the women. There is a steep rise in
incidence from the age of 40 to 50. Women who
start menstruating early in life (less than 12 years of
age) and women who have a late menopause (after
52 years) also have an increased risk.
FINE NEEDLE ASPIRATION
The incidence of breast cancer is higher in those
who eat a high fat diet and low fiber diet. The young
women taking the PILL with high levels of Oestrogen
for more than eight years may have an increased
risk for the development of breast cancer.
64
Many scientists believe that cancer cells may
break away from the primary breast tumor and
spread to other parts of the body (i.e. Secondary)
even when the decease is at an early stage. Hence
Breast Cancer treatment includes both treatment
of the breast and the treatment of cancer cells that
may have spread to the other parts of the body
(Secondary).
Early breast Cancer usually does not cause pain.
In fact, when breast cancer first develops, there may
be no symptoms at all. But as the cancer grows, it
can cause changes that woman should watch for.
It is a very simple procedure which is done in the
outpatient clinic. Doctor can take a sample of cells
from the Lump by using a fine needle and syringe.
The aspirated cells will be studied with the help of
microscope to see if any cancer cells are present.
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
65
Health
breast cancer (stage I,II). The doctor will always
have to take into account several other factors such
as size of your breast, and the size of the lump etc.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses a beam
of high energy rays or particles to destroy Cancer
cells left behind the breast, chest wall or Arm pit
after surgery.
Chemotherapy: Chemo therapy is a cancer
treatment that uses anticancer drugs to destroy
cancer cells throughout the body.
Hormonal Therapy: Hormonal therapy is another
form of treatment. It is most often used as an
adjuvant therapy to help reduce the risk of cancer
recurrence after surgery or chemotherapy. It is
also used as a first line treatment in patient with
advanced breast cancer•
 Food high in
carbohydrates can trigger
the disease
Tips to Prevent Breast Cancer
some women.
6. Breast feed your Child: If you bear children, breast-feed
your babies for as long as possible. Women who breast-feed
their babies for at least a year in total have a reduced risk of
developing breast cancer later.
7. Avoid Hormone Replacement Therapy: Menopausal
hormone therapy increases risk for breast cancer. If you must
take hormones to manage menopausal symptoms, avoid
those that contain progesterone and limit their use to less than
three years. “Bioidentical hormones” and hormonal creams
and gels are no safer than prescription hormones and should
also be avoided.
8. Get Regular Breast Cancer Screenings: Follow your
doctor or health care provider’s recommendations to decide
what type of screening you need and how often you need it.
1. Don’t be Overweight: Obesity raises the risk of breast
cancer after menopause, the time of life when breast cancer
most often occurs. Avoid gaining weight over time, and try to
maintain a body-mass index under 25.
2. Eat Healthy Food: Embrace a diet high in vegetables
and fruit and low in sugared drinks, refined carbohydrates and
fatty foods. Eat lean protein such as fish or chicken breast and
eat red meat in moderation, if at all. Eat whole grains. Choose
vegetable oils over animal fats.
3. Keep Physically Active:
Research suggests that
increased physical activity, even when begun later in life,
reduces overall breast-cancer risk by about 10 percent to 30
percent. All it takes is moderate exercise like a 30-minute walk
five days a week to get this protective effect.
4. Drink Little or No Alcohol: Alcohol use is associated with
an increased risk of breast cancer. Women should limit intake
to no more than one drink per day, regardless of the type of
alcohol.
5. Don’t Smoke: Research suggests that long-term
smoking is associated with increased risk of breast cancer in
66
DRINKING WATER THRU
DESALINATION
If you are at high risk for breast cancer, such as having
a particular gene like a BRCA gene, or have a strong family
history or have had high-risk benign breast disease in the
past, talk with your doctor about other options for you which
might include:
A. Extra screenings: For some women, MRI or ultrasound
screenings can add valuable information to regular
mammogram screening.
B. Estrogen-Blocking Drugs: Women with a family history
of breast cancer or who are over age 60 should talk to their
doctor about the pros and cons of estrogen-blocking drugs
such as tamoxifen, raloxifene, and aromatase inhibitors.
C. Prophylactic surgery to remove breasts and/or ovaries:
Women who have had both breasts surgically removed
reduce their risk of breast cancer by over 90 percent. Women
who have had both ovaries removed have about half the risk
of developing breast cancer as women with intact ovaries.
Clearly these options are most appropriate for women at very
high risk•
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Water shortages and poor water quality are considered as the major obstacles to achieving
sustainable development and improvement in the quality of life. According to the United Nations,
by 2030, water demand will exceed supply by 40%. The use of desalination technology is seen
as the looming alternative to tackling water shortage in the coming years. Dr A N Brijesh Nair,
Professor, VIT University, Vellore, gives a clear picture of the desalination technologies used in
different parts of the world, including its small presence in India.
Dr. A.N. Brijesh Nair
H
ere are some alarming facts – 97.5% of
all water on Earth is saltwater, and, of
the remaining 2.5%, over two-thirds are
inaccessible ice and permanent snow
cover, and, hence, water is acutely and unevenly
distributed. The world’s water consumption rate is
doubling every 20 years, outpacing by two times the
rate of population growth. The availability of good
quality water is on the decline, and water demand is
on the rise. Worldwide availability of fresh water for
industrial needs and human consumption is limited.
Various industrial and developmental activities in
Safety Messenger | April 2015
recent times have resulted in increasing the pollution
level and deteriorating the water quality.
Water shortages and unreliable water quality
are considered as the major obstacles to achieving
sustainable development and improvement in the
quality of life. Large parts of the world are already
experiencing either water stress or water scarcity.
According to the UN, by 2030, water demand will
exceed supply by 40%, with up to two-thirds of the
global population inhabiting areas that are officially
defined as water-stressed. About 884 million people
67
 Desalination plants in
Israel (left) and in Oman
(right)
in the world today have no access to safe, potable
drinking water. Now, what can be a technology that
can be a solution for these alarming facts – the
answer may be desalination.
Desalination involves the removal of salt and
minerals from saline or brackish water by means
of one or more processes to produce (potable)
water fit for human consumption. Desalination is
the term broadly used to describe the production
of potable water from various sources of raw water.
The sources may include brackish water, river
water, wastewater, pure water, and seawater. In this
sense, desalination is the process of reducing the
concentration of dissolved solids in the water to
below the WHO target for potable water.
Over the last few decades, desalination
technologies have been used increasingly
throughout the world to produce drinking water from
brackish groundwater and seawater, to improve the
quality of existing supplies of freshwater for drinking
and industrial purposes, and to treat industrial and
municipal wastewater prior to discharge or reuse.
There are five basic techniques that can are
mostly used to remove salt and other dissolved
solids from water: distillation, reverse osmosis
(RO), electrodialysis (ED), ion exchange (IX), and
freeze desalination. Distillation and freezing involve
removing pure water, in the form of water vapour or
ice, from salty brine. RO and ED use membranes to
separate dissolved salts and minerals from water. IX
involves an exchange of dissolved mineral ions in
the water for other, more desirable dissolved ions,
as the water passes through chemical resins.
World scenario
It is estimated that there are 15,000-20,000
desalination plants producing over 20,000 m3/day
across the world. New desalination capacity has
grown by an estimated 9% a year since 2005. Largescale seawater reverse osmosis plants (SWRO)
now contribute to the domestic water supplies of
several major Australian cities, including Adelaide,
Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and the Gold Coast.
The Al Hidd Desalination Plant in Bahrain,
completed in 2000, on Muharraq island, employed
a multistage flash process, and produces 272,760
m3 of water a day. China operates the Beijing
Desalination Plant in Tianjin, a combination
desalination and coal-fired power plant with an
overall capacity to produce 200,000 m3/day of
potable water. In Germany, fresh water on the island
of Helgoland is supplied by two reverse osmosis
desalination plants. Israel Desalination Enterprises’
Sorek Desalination Plant in Palmachim provides
up to 26,000 m³ of potable water per hour. At full
capacity, it is the largest desalination plant of its kind
in the world.
The Hadera seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO)
desalination plant in Israel is the largest of its kind
in the world. With the adoption of desalination
technology, Israel now has become a water-surplus
country. By 2014, Israel’s desalination programmes
provided roughly 35% of the country’s drinking
water and it is expected to supply 40% by 2015 and
70% by 2050.
68
Safety Messenger | April 2015
The Saline Water Conversion Corporation of
Saudi Arabia provides 50% of the municipal water
in the kingdom and operates 32 desalination plants,
including the one at Shoaiba that produces 450
million liters a day. The big desalting plant at Jubail,
Saudi Arabia, is a model for the world. A pipeline
carries a river of freshwater 200 miles inland to the
capital city of Riyadh, and desalted seawater has
given a large region an entirely new future filled with
opportunities.
Spain, being the closest of the islands to the
Sahara desert, is, therefore, the driest and has
limited water supplies. A private, commercial
desalination plant was installed in 1964 to serve
the whole island and enable the tourism industry. El
Prat, near Barcelona, a desalination plant (200,000
m3/day) completed in 2009 was meant to provide
water to the Barcelona metropolitan area, especially
during the periodic severe droughts that put the
available amounts of drinking water under serious
stress.
by Poseidon Resources, and is expected to start
functioning in 2016. It is expected to produce 50
million gallons a day to 110,000 customers in San
Diego County.
 Desalination facility of
Orange County in the US
In 1977, Cape Coral, Florida, became the first
municipality in the United States to use the RO
process on a large scale, with an initial operating
capacity of 3 million gallons a day. By 1985, due to
the rapid growth in population of Cape Coral, the city
had the largest low-pressure reverse osmosis plant
in the world, capable of producing 15 MGD. As of
2012, South Florida had 33 brackish and 2 seawater
desalination plants operating, with seven brackish
water plants under construction. The brackish and
seawater desalination plants have the capacity to
produce 245 million gallons of potable water a day.
The Virgin Islands, Bahamas, Marshalls, the
Netherlands Antilles, Antigua, Ascension, Bermuda,
Cayman, Canary Islands, Malta, and Cebu (in the
 A desalination plant
Algeria has at least 15 desalination plants in
operation, with the biggest desalination unit being
Magtaa Reverse Osmosis (RO) Desalination Plant
(500 000m3/day).
Moving onto the developments in desalination
technologies across the United States, there are
a dozen different desalination projects in the state
of Texas, both for desalinating groundwater and
desalinating seawater from the Gulf of Mexico.
Brackish groundwater is treated at the El Paso,
Texas, plant .It produces 27,500,000 US gallons
of fresh water daily (about 25% of total freshwater
deliveries) by reverse osmosis. The United States’
largest desalination plant is being constructed
Safety Messenger | April 2015
69
range of feed-water quality in terms of physical,
chemical and biological contaminants with minimal
pre-treatment.
Philippines) depend on desalination to produce
some or all of their municipal water supplies. Both
the Netherlands Antilles and the Virgin Islands
produce more desalinated water than such
countries as Great Britain, Mexico, Australia, Israel,
and Germany. The water produced on these islands
is usually used within city limits where there are
adequate supplies of fuel or electricity and a water
distribution system.
 Testing the water for
purity at a lab.
Thus the use of desalination technology is
seen as the looming alternative to tackle the water
shortage in the coming years. The most recent
developments in desalination technologies are
aimed specifically at reducing energy consumption
and cost as well as minimising environmental
impacts. Advancements include such new and
emerging technologies as forward osmosis, lowtemperature distillation, membrane distillation,
pressure-retarded osmosis, biomimetic membrane,
and graphene membrane. Hybrid plants (especially
those using MED) and reverse osmosis are gaining
wider use in the Middle East, which has traditionally
been home to facilities using more energy-intensive
thermal technologies such as MSF.
Indian scenario
Research and development efforts in India,
mainly taken up at Baba Atomic Research Centre
(BARC), have resulted in the development of
brackish water desalination technology in the
nation. Several community-level desalination plants
of capacities ranging from 5-30 kilolitres/day (KLD)
have been setup in the rural areas of Rajasthan,
Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat, producing clean water
from brackish water. These reverse-osmosis plants
are not only capable of desalinating brackish water
but are also capable of removing contaminants
such as fluoride, arsenic and nitrate.
BARC has developed the design methodology
of Seawater Reverse Osmosis (RO) system, and,
based on the experience gained from the 100 KLD
RO plant at Trombay, it has setup a SWRO plant
at Kalpakkam which produces 1.8 million litres/
day (MLD) of potable water. The BARC has also
developed a barge-mounted desalination plant
(50 KLD-capacity) to produce drinking water from
seawater. Such desalination plants are useful for
water-starved coastal areas.
A report by Indo-Asian News Service suggests
that the Indian desalination water market is
expected to grow at a compounded annual growth
rate (CAGR) of 30% over a period of 5 years from
2013 to 2018. The desalination capacity in India
is seen at 5.35 million m3/day by 2018, which is a
342% increase from its capacity in 2013. The states
of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu have emerged as the
desalination hubs due to poor water availability,
low groundwater levels, and high demand. Minjur
Seawater Desalination Plant and Nemmeli Seawater
Desalination Plant in Chennai that started operation
in 2010 and 2013, respectively, with an installed
capacity of 100 MLD each supply water to the city of
Chennai. Desalination is used in the coastal regions
of Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and
West Bengal.
 An inside view from a
desalination plant
Desalination is a promising technology that
can reduce the drinking water woes of the world.
For this to happen, the major hindrance is the cost
associated with the use of this technology. Let us
look forward to a time when desalination will be
available at a lower cost and accessible to everyone
in the world and water scarcity would be a thing of
the past•
Similar units can also be used for disaster
management to provide drinking water in the coastal
areas during emergency. For disaster management,
desalination plants (2 KLD to 5 KLD capacity each)
were designed and installed in the tsunami-affected
areas of Tamil Nadu. Special care was taken in the
design so that the plant can operate under a wide
70
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Profile
accommodate large jets and facilitate direct flights to
the Middle East. The resolution was rejected by the
Navy for security reasons. This resulted in the Kerala
Government in mooting the idea of a new, greenfield
civilian airport to be built near Kochi. However, the
Government of India’s Airports Authority of India did
not have enough funds to start a greenfield airport.
This lead to the novel idea of collecting funds from
the public and individuals to build an airport – which
was for the first time in India. The idea was put
forward by the dynamic and visionary IAS officer, V J
Kurian, the-then district collector of Ernakulam, who
is now back at CIAL as its MD after a brief interlude.
Then Chief Minister Late K. Karunakaran gave him
a free hand to make his dream a reality.
The original proposal for the airport outlined
an estimated cost of Rs 100 crore (US $16 million)
and an expected date of commission in 1997. For
better fund mobilisation as well as for administrative
convenience, a public limited company under the
name the Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL)
was registered in March 1994 with an authorised
capital of Rs 90 crore (US $14 million).
COCHIN International
AIRPORT FLYING HIGH
A total of 3,500 acres of land was acquired
for the construction of the airport. About 2,300
landowners and 872 families were resettled under a
rehabilitation package. The facility was inaugurated
by the-then President of India, K R Narayanan, on
May 25, 1999. The first commercial service began
on June 10, 1999. The operations from the old naval
airport were moved to CIAL on July 1, 1999.
CIAL
Amazing growth
The Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) is the first greenfield airport set up in the publicprivate partnership (PPP) model in civil the aviation infrastructure sector in India. Commissioned
in 1999, the state-of-the-art airport is now on a fast track of growth with the most advanced
systems of safety and security. In a short span of time, CIAL has emerged as a model airport and
a fast-developing hub of international travel in south India. Following is an overview of the unique
features of this flourishing international aviation hub.
C
ochin International Airport is situated
in the suburbs of the booming south
Indian metropolis of Kochi, in the state
of Kerala. Located at Nedumbassery,
about 30 kilometres north-east of Kochi, it is today
the busiest and largest airports in Kerala. For the
financial year 2013-14, it was the fourth busiest
airport in India in international passenger traffic,
ferrying 3,272,350 passengers and seventh busiest
in overall passenger traffic, carrying 5,383,114
passengers.
The airport is also a primary base for Air India
Express operations and is a focus city for Air Asia
India, Air India, Indigo, Jet Airways, and Spicejet. A
host of international airlines, including the leading
Middle East-based airlines, operate from this airport
to all major destinations across the globe.
72
The airport had 200,000 sq ft of floor-space
at its inauguration. CIAL envisioned 6 phases of
expansion over 20 years, the third phase of which
was completed in 2009. The original airport terminal
was small, intended to handle just 100 passengers
at a time. However, by 2001, the international
passenger traffic was growing, making necessary
redevelopment of the terminal. Most of the
expansion occurred in the international terminal, as
it accounted for 78% of all traffic. In 2002, the original
airport’s floor-area had risen to 300,000 sq ft owing
Beginning
The original air facilities in Kochi were an
aerodrome and airstrip on Willingdon Island, built
in 1936 by the British Residency of the erstwhile
Kingdom of Kochi, intended for transporting British
officials involved in the development of Cochin Port.
The airstrip was converted into a military airport by
the Royal Indian Navy during World War II. After
India’s Independence, the Indian Navy operated the
airport, though it permitted civilian aircraft to use the
facility. The Gulf economic boom of the 1980s made
it necessary to develop international transportation
to Kochi in the interests of expatriates working in the
Middle East.
to the expansion of the international departure area.
With a rising number of airlines operating at the
airport, CIAL decided to build an exclusive terminal
for international arrivals, which increased the floorspace to 400,000 sq ft, increasing passport controls
and baggage carousels, in addition to expanding
the international departures floor-space. As a part of
phase two of the expansion plans, an airline centre
complex of 81,000 sq ft was built on the western
side of the terminal to accommodate airlines’ and
CIAL’s administrative offices. The cargo terminal
also was expanded in the second phase.
Work on the third phase was intended to
accommodate 5 million passenger movements
annually, and was started in 2007. The third phase
involved the commissioning of a central block,
connecting the domestic and international terminals,
and enlarging the airside area to accommodate
more gates and waiting areas along with increased
shopping areas. This increased the built-up area by
another 320,000 sq ft. The runway was re-surfaced
in 2008. The third phase also completed the
expansion of the cargo village and a second aircraft
taxiway to the MRO facility.
On September 8, 2012, the director board of
CIAL approved the design of the new international
terminal costing Rs 6 billion (US $94 million). It will
have two levels – the ground level for arrivals and the
top level for departures. It will be able to handle 12
million passengers annually and 4,000 passengers
during peak hours. It will have 15 aerobridges with a
floor-area of 1,500,000 sq ft. The terminal is expected
to manage passenger traffic till 2030. Once the new
terminal is ready, the old international terminal will
become domestic terminal. The existing domestic
terminal will serve business jets only.
Security at its best
Cochin International Airport is listed among the
12 major airports of India. Its safety and security is
managed by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security
through the Central Industrial Security Force
(CISF). Cochin was the third international airport
band the first private airport in the country to come
Present board of Directors
Oomman Chandi – Chief Minister of Kerala : Chairman
K.Babu
- Mininster for Excise and Ports
P.K.Kunjalikutty
- Minister for Industries.
K.M. Mani
- Minister for finance & Law
Jiji Thomson
- Chief Secretary of Kerala
N.V.George
- MD, Geo Electrical Trading & Contracting Co., Sharjah
M.A.Yousuf Ali
- MD, M/S EMKE Group, Abudhabi
Dr.P. Mohammed Ali- MD, Gulfar Engineering & Contracting LLC Sultanate of Oman
C.V.Jacob
- MD, Synthite Industrial Chemicals Ltd, Kolenchery.
E.M.Babu
- M/S Majeed Bukatara Trading Esst, Dubai, UAE.
V.J.Kurian IAS
- Managing Director, CIAL
In October 1990, the Kerala Chamber of
Commerce, supported by local industry, passed
a resolution to expand the naval airport to
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
73
under the cover of CISF, in 2001, after the Central
Government decided to hand over airport security
to CISF in the wake of the hijacking of Indian
Airlines IC-814. Security was handled by the Special
Branch of Kochi Police before the CISF. The airport
company’s Aviation Safety Wing (ASW) oversees
security facilities and equipment. The ASW is also
responsible for fire and emergency services.
V J Kurian, MD, says: “As the latest addition, CIAL
has introduced a high-end robotic safety system
with the induction of a remote mobile investigator
and two threat containment vessels at a cost of Rs
12 crore. The Canadian robots are being handled
by the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad of the
CISF.”
CIAL is the only airport in the country
safety system with the induction of a remote mobile
investigator and two threat containment vessels
at a cost of Rs 12 crore. The Bomb Detection and
Disposal Squad of the CISF handles the Canadian
robots.
The robotic team includes a threat containment
vessel (TCV), sophisticated luggage containment
vehicle, and a remote mobile investigator (RMI)9WT. The TCV is capable of handling suspected
luggage identified by the robots and can contain a
blast of minimum 8 kg of TNT or equivalent quantity
of explosives and can even withstand repeated
detonations. The easy-to-operate and highly
efficient RMI-9WT is a lightweight, battery-operated
multipurpose vehicle and is proven to be ideal for the
remote-handling of improvised explosive devices,
hazardous chemicals and radioactive materials.
AT CIAL, IT’S PASSENGER
SAFETY FIRST
The Cochin International Airport (CIAL) was a path-breaking initiative
in the history of India’s civil aviation history. When mooted way back in
1990, several eyebrows were raised and a volley of criticisms followed.
However, the project went ahead, braving all odds, thanks mainly to
the dynamism and diehard leadership and acumen of V J Kurian, IAS,
who was handpicked by the-then Chief Minister of Kerala, the late
K Karunakaran, to execute the project. CIAL is perhaps V J Kurian’s
magnum opus in his professional career so far. In an exclusive interview
to Safety Messenger, V J Kurian speaks about the latest developments
in the growth trajectory of CIAL. Excerpts...
C
IAL is the first greenfield airport setup
in the public-private partnership (PPP)
model in the civil aviation infrastructure
sector in India. It is also one of the stateof-the-art airports with a commendable focus on
safety and security. Being the architect and master
executor of the project, please elaborate on the
safety and security systems incorporated by CIAL.
Also, tell us about the latest additions to the safety
and security systems at the airport.
The 6-wheeled versatile robot has removable
tracks for step climbing capability. It also has high
lifting capacity manipulator with dual extension
front arm that can be configured for many different
applications such as under-car searches and
window access up to second floor. It traces
explosives with 8 inbuilt cameras and an X-ray unit.
The added features include power drillers, claw
tools, and gun camera with integrated aiming lasers.
How equipped is CIAL to handle emergencies?
What are the safety systems in place at the ground
level to tackle emergencies?
The firefighting facilities at CIAL are truly worldclass and is India’s first international airport to get
a safety certificate. The fire safety gadgets that
are in use at the airport were provided by the
internationally reputed HOK Florida. At Cochin
International Airport, the safety of the passengers
Safety Messenger | April 2015
to have such a facility.
CIAL has introduced 3 state-of-the-art ION
scanning detectors that can identify small amounts
of material, down to nanograms, of explosives.
External security in parking areas, visitors lounges,
cafes and other non-sensitive areas outside the
terminal are handled by a private security company.
The airport is under the direct protection of the
always comes first.
The dedicated Airport Rescue and Firefighting
(ARFF) Service wing is committed to saving life,
property and environment from adverse effects
of fire, medical emergencies, and hazardous
conditions. CIAL adheres to Category-9 level of fire
protection in accordance with ICAO’s standards and
recommended practices and with its well-structured
Airport Emergency Plan, CIAL is equipped enough
to address all types of emergencies.
The fire station is located near the ATC Tower,
with direct approach to the midpoint of runway so
as to reach at emergency sites very swiftly. Every
aircraft movement is closely observed round the
clock from the watchtower, which is well-equipped
with CCTV and all modern communication facilities.
The well-trained ARFF team at CIAL consists of 90
personnel working round the clock and is vigilant
enough to handle all types of rescue and firefighting
operations, including first-aid.
The ARFF team has seven sophisticated Airfield
Crash Fire Tenders, of which 2 are the latest IVECO
Magirus appliances with a carrying capacity of
13,000 litres of water and 1,500 litres of foam,
which can be pumped at 80 km/ph speed within 18
seconds. The monitor on the vehicles can discharge
extinguishing media up to a distance of 100 metres.
The other 5 Rosenbauer appliances also have
similar features. Besides, CIAL is equipped with
4 most modern ambulances with MICU facilities
and are manned by the personnel from the Amrita
Institute of Medical Sciences.
Other ancillary vehicles and equipment include
a water tender with 14,000-litres capacity, two
high-mast light-vehicles that can illuminate an
area of 25,000M2, four jeeps for runway inspection
and ‘Follow Me’ purpose, one fast-deployment
inflatable triage tent which is used at crash sites for
emergency care, and a self-rescue jumping cushion
used for jumping from a height of 30 metres.
The dedicated Disabled Aircraft Recovery
Team (DART) of CIAL is trained and certified by the
Frankfurt-based Fraport AG Fire Training Centre.
The Aircraft Recovery Service guarantees safe and
timely removal of disabled aircraft in case of an
incident. The recovery kit is capable of recovering
narrow-body aircraft like B737, B727, A319, A320
We always support the advancement of
technology, especially on safety issues. As the
latest, CIAL has introduced a high-end robotic
74
with internally trained private security agents,
specialising in intelligence gathering and passenger
profiling. Security management training is provided
by CIAL’s Aviation Academy, and personnel are
employed by the company as security agents –
deployed in baggage screening rooms, entry gates,
the general cargo area, and the lounge areas. CIAL
ASW employs Army-trained sniffer dogs to check for
explosives in baggage areas, the only Indian airport
Safety Messenger | April 2015
and A321 as well as bigger aircraft in case of
partial undercarriage failure. The DART meets
all the internationally recognised standards and
recommended practices of ICAO, IATA, and the
Association of German Airports.
 Lay out-new
International terminal
What are the airport’s expansion plans?
Fuelled by its consistent success stories, CIAL
is moving on the fast lane of diversification and is
all set to translate its revenue blueprint into manifold
growth over a period of next 10 years. The ambitious
1,000-crore international terminal is under way. The
company is venturing into new areas like tapping
hydroelectric and solar energy as well as taking
over other airports. It has formulated new brand
image and vision and mission project. With a view
to becoming power-neutral, CIAL is going ahead
with numerous hydroelectric power projects. As of
now, it produces 1 MW power from its solar plant,
and CIAL Infrastructure Limited is spearheading this
power revolution. The work of another 12 MW solar
power plant on the northern part of the runway is in
progress. With the commissioning of this plant, we
will be able to consume 55,000 units of electricity a
day from our own facilities.
What about the Aerotropolis project?
The concept of building an Aerotropolis is a part
of our master plan, which also envisages extensive
land-utilisation mapping. We are gearing up to
implement the master plan brick by brick. As a part
of this, a 30-crore, commercial complex is taking
shape adjacent to the airport.
75
Being one of the major components of cost of
production, energy cost not only necessitates the
installation of energy efficient technology but also
inculcate energy efficient practices and methods
amongst the plant personnel.
As a part of recognising the need for
improvement of energy efficiency, CII- Sohrabji
Godrej Green Business Centre (CII-Godrej GBC) is
organizing a two-day advanced training programme
on Energy efficiency on 23 & 24 April 2015 in Delhi.
Advanced traffic control systems
The Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower is 200 ft tall.
Cochin ATC controls flights below an altitude of
25,500 ft. The airport has an Instrument Landing
System (ILS), which uses distance-measuring
equipment (DME). The Instrument Landing System
allows aircraft landings in reduced visibility as low as
650 metres. The ATC uses Doppler VHF Omnirange
I and II. Large-scale upgrades such as the latest
AIRCON 2100 air-traffic control automation system
have also been introduced.
The AAI has installed an advanced, Rs 16-crore
(US $2.5 million) airport surveillance radar (ASR)
as well as monopulse secondary surveillance
radar (MSSR). In addition, surface movement
radar was installed for effective monitoring of
flights in the runway and parking bays. The system
allows an aircraft to land every 3 minutes instead
of the previous 12 minutes. The radar improves
the accuracy of aircraft alignment with the runway
while landing. This will reduce fuel consumption
and will allow for further increases in airport traffic.
The system is integrated with similar technology
at Chennai, Mangalore, and Thiruvananthapuram
airports. It increases the range of the radar to 250
nautical miles.
Dates: 23 & 24 April 2015
will come up on the airside.
Education, training
Since 2008, CIAL has been the first airport to
venture into providing higher education in aviation
management and technical areas to overcome
the shortage of skilled manpower in the aviation
industry. CIAL has teamed up with the Indira Gandhi
National Open University (IGNOU) to start 2 schools
in aviation education.
Location: Delhi•
 When the highly
efficient RMI-9WT
Robotic safety system
first introduced in CIAL
Asian Business Aviation
Conference & Exhibition
Business aviation is defined as the use of a
general aviation airplane or helicopter for a business
purpose. It is essential to tens of thousands of
companies of all types and sizes that are trying to
compete in a marketplace that demands speed,
flexibility, efficiency and productivity. The vast
majority of these companies – 85% – are small and
With all the facilities and infrastructure, the ASTI
at Cochin International Airport Limited has been
certified by the BCAS as one of the outstanding
institutes in India.
Cochin Airport has a dedicated cargo centre on
the eastern side of the complex. The cargo centre is
one of the largest facilities in the country with a total
floor space of 120,000 sq ft on 50 acres of land.
To address their consensuses, The Asian Business Aviation Conference &
Exhibition (ABACE) will be held at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport at the Shanghai
Hawker Pacific Business Aviation Service Centre from April 14 – 16, 2015. In
partnership with Shanghai Airport Authority (SAA) and co-hosted by the National
Business Aviation Association (NBAA), the Asian Business Aviation Association
(AsBAA) and the Shanghai Exhibition Center (SEC), ABACE is Asia’s premier
business aviation event.
ABACE2015 Dates: April 14–16, 2015
Location: Shanghai, China•
International Symposium
on Sustainable Aviation
Aviation is considered as one of the major sources of environmental
problems and considered a prominent cause of sustainability. Future trends in
aviation could constitute a major impediment to having sustainable development
in economic, social and environmental perspectives. Sustainable aviation is a
long term strategy aiming to offer innovative solutions to the challenges facing
the aviation industry.
The symposium will be held in Istanbul, Turkey on 31 May - 3 June 2015.
ISSA will include several keynote presentations, specialized sessions, and oral
and poster presentation sessions from the participants on different subjects
related to sustainability on aviation.
Dates: 31 May - 3 June 2015
VENUE: Sheraton Maslak Istanbul, Turkey•
At Your Service
Experience the Luxury of a 3 Star Business Class Hotel @ Economy Price
A world class 18 Hole Golf Course playing 7400
yards close to the airport is an added attraction of
CIAL.
Domestic, international connectivity
CIAL’s 11,155 ft × 151 ft runway is equipped to
operate any type of aircraft in commercial service.
It has a full-length parallel taxiway of 11,200 ft.
The 2,648 ft × 410 ft apron comprising 16 stands
can accommodate 5 wide-bodied and 8 narrowbodied aircraft. Cochin Airport has one helipad
for dedicated use of helicopters, meant for air-taxi
purposes. There are plans to build a heliport.
CIAL offers the best domestic and international
connectivity, thanks to the growing number of
international carriers operating from this airport.
They include Air Arabia, Air Asia, Air Asia India, Air
India, Air India Express, Emirates, Ethihad Airways,
Gulf Air, Saudia Airways, Air Lanka, Malaysian
Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Silkair, Malindo, and
Tiger.
CIAL has set up a 1 MW solar-power plant. The
1 MW facility is spread over 3 locations within the
airport, a part of it on rooftops. A 320 kW plant has
been put up on the vast roof of the MRO hangar
of CIAL; another 550 kW is ground-mounted, and
the rest is installed on the roof of the training centre
building. None of them is on the airside or on the
land abutting the runway, which is where most
airports have their solar-power systems. The airport
has plans to expand solar capacity to 10 MW, which
The facility of Collective Landing permit for
group tourists is available to foreign nationals other
than nationals of Afghanistan, China, Ethiopia, Iraq,
Iran, Nigeria, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and
foreign nationals of Pakistani origin. CIAL has Visa
on arrival facility also.
76
mid-size businesses, many of which are based in dozens of markets where the
airlines have reduced or eliminated service.
Suite
Room
Green Chillies
(24 hr Coffee Shop)
Vista
Room
Aquarium
Room
My Time
(The Spa)
Royal Palate
(The Multi Cuisine Restaurant)
Sea Green Express
(The Multi Cuisine Restaurant)
Panorama
(The Multi Cuisine Restaurant)
Marina
(The Banquet Hall)
High Tide
(The Board Room)
The Best Three Star
Hotel of the year 2013.
Ground handling is controlled by Air India
Transport Services and Bird Worldwide Flight
Services (BWFS). The terminal handling is done by
BWFS with Airawat Aviation Services•
The Best Business
Hotel of the year 2014.
His Highness
(The Banquet Hall)
Million Dollars
(The Pub)
An ISO 9001:2008 &
22000:2005 certified.
Safety Messenger | April 2015
# 79, 100 ft road, Vadapalani, Chennai – 600026. Ph: 044-23621818 / 1986 Fax: 23624708 / 818.
Email: banquets@ambicaempire.com | fnb@ambicaempire.com | www.ambicaempire.com
Plot No 1, Kirlampudi Layout, Door no 7-24-3/2, Beach road, Visakhapatnam - 530017.
Ph: 0891-2821818 Fax: 2821888. Email: ambicaseagreen@gmail.com | www.ambicaseagreen.com
HSE Conferences
Training Programme
on Energy Efficiency
Kochi City Police, who have a station outside the
terminal. CISF maintains 2 armed squadrons and
one bomb detection and disposal squad. CISF has
a command centre 250 metres outside the terminal,
with an intelligence division and mobilisation cell. The
air customs division operates a narcotics detection
squad in the terminal. The CIAL ASWs are working
on installing a fully automated perimeter-intrusion
detection system that will detect any possible
violation, using sensors that will provide critical time
for the security forces to react. The immigration
department is handled by Special Branch personnel
trained by the Bureau of Immigration.
HEALTH
suffering from the disease to prevent its spread can
be done.
STAY HEALTHY
THIS SUMMER
S
Jaundice: Also called Hepatitis A, it is a waterborne disease caused mainly by contaminated
water supplies and food cooked in unclean places.
The initial symptoms of jaundice include yellow
discolouration of the skin, mucous membranes and
the whites of the eyes, light-coloured stools, darkcoloured urine, and itching of the skin. A vaccine is
available, but to protect yourself better, you should
avoid eating food made in unhygienic places. Drink
only filtered or double-boiled water.
Mumps: It is an extremely contagious viral
disease caused by mumps virus transmitted when
an infected person sneezes or coughs. It is known
to occur mainly in children during peak summer.
One of the most common symptoms is the swelling
of the person’s salivary glands at the base of the
neck. It typically starts with a few days of fever,
headache, muscle aches, tiredness, and loss of
appetite, followed by swelling of the salivary glands.
The MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps and Rubella)
can help protect you from contracting the disease.
Sun headaches: Bright sunshine and heat
can trigger headache. In severe cases, it may also
result in dizziness, nausea, muscle fatigue and
vomiting. To avoid such cases, remain hydrated,
and, if symptoms occur, always take an over-thecounter medicine to be on a safer side.
Epistaxis: Frequency of hemorrhage from
nose commonly found in young children also
increases in the summer season. The flow of blood
ummer is here, and, along with the soaring
temperatures, a large variety of diseases
can put a damper on your plans. Some of
you may still not have encountered some of
these diseases, but it is most likely that it can affect
us however careful we are. Explained below are
some of the most common diseases that are likely
to affect you during this summer.
Heat stroke: It is by far the most serious
and common summer hazard. Often known as
sunstroke, or hyperpyrexia, it is manifested by
extremely high body temperatures (generally
greater than 104 degree F), and short and rapid
breathing, fainting, dry skin, etc. Heat stroke might
lead to serious complications and the victim will die
if not treated in time.
Cataract: Overexposure to ultraviolet light
can cause cataracts, retinal damage and other
eye problems. Eye infections like styes, bacterial
and viral conjunctivitis are also seen with increased
frequency in this season.
Skin cancer: Exposure to ultraviolet (UV)
radiations is the main cause of skin cancer.
These UV rays can also cause sunburn, tanning,
premature skin aging and a decrease in immune
system response. People who spent lots of time in
the sun or have fair skin/hair or are over 50 years of
age, are more at risk of getting skin cancer.
Chicken pox: The chicken pox is seen right
at the onset of summers. It manifests as itchy red
rash like spots or boils all over the body, usually
in children. Caused by the Varicella zoster virus
and spread by air-borne particles, the disease
spreads when an already infected person sneezes
or coughs. Another mode of transmission is if a
caregiver touches the blisters or the fluid oozing
out of it. A vaccine is available to protect yourself
against this virus. Even so, some simple precautions
like washing your hands thoroughly after visiting a
common or crowded place and isolating a person
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79
normally stops when the blood clots, which may be
encouraged by direct pressure applied by pinching
the soft fleshy part of the nose. Pressure should be
firm and be applied for at least 10 minutes.
Food poisoning: Food poisoning is more
common during the summer. It is caused by
eating/drinking food /water contaminated with
viruses, bacteria, toxins, parasites or chemicals.
The symptoms are pain, diarrhoea, nausea and
vomiting. In some cases, the nervous system may
be affected. Careless handling of food causes the
bacteria to grow: some by soil, water, dusting and
packing such as vegetables and fruits. Raw meats
hold and carry many bacterial contaminants.
Food poisoning causes inflammation of the
stomach lining and the small and large intestines
with muscle cramps, vomiting, diarrhoea and
fever. Prevention is to have good sanitation
practices, proper handling of all foods, placing
food in clean and proper areas, keeping food at
right temperatures, and discarding food that are
outdated or spoiled.
Dehydration: Dehydration can happen
quickly in the summer heat due to excessive
sweating, especially when in physically active
individuals. To prevent dehydration, drink additional
water in hot or humid weather.
Mosquito-borne diseases: Summer is
also a month of insects like mosquitoes, bees
and ants. Their bites – apart from being itchy and
annoying – can be serious if they bring diseases
such as malaria, dengue, and chikun gunya. All
preventive measures should be taken to avoid these
insect bites.
Though the conditions mentioned above can
sometimes prove extremely annoying, the silver
lining is that all of these are avoidable with a little
care. Some measures which can help us deal better
with the summer complaints are:
• Adequate consumption of water: Nothing
works as water to quench the thirst. Drinking plenty
of water keeps the body hydrated in summers and
helps prevent dehydration. Do not wait to drink
until you are thirsty, at the time of thirst, your body
already indicates that it ran out of water.
he food we take
according to the
season will keep our
body healthy. In the
summer season, we
should take the food
that can be easily
digested.
• Summer diet: The food we take according to
the season will keep our body healthy. In the summer
season, we should take the food that can be easily
digested. Oily foods reduce the percentage of water
in the body, so junk foods and fried foods should be
avoided in the summer.
Fruits such as watermelons, cucumber and
coconut water can help prevent dehydration in the
summer. Take light, less fatty and nutritious food;
avoid heavy and spicy food. Vegetables in red,
orange, yellow colours like pumpkin, potato, sweet
potato, bell pepper contain Vitamin A, Vitamin C,
and anti oxidants.
Fruits like mango contain beta-carotene, Vitamin
C, and fibre, berries can be used with curd and in
ice creams. Paneer is rich in proteins and calcium.
Walnuts and fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Steamed fish is better than fried fish. Oats contain
a large amount of fibre and proteins. Whole cereals
and cereal products should be taken.
• Summer skin care: Keep your skin hydrated
and moisturised; use sunscreens of good quality.
Avoid too much sun exposure.
• Summer walk: Try not to go out into the sun
during noon. If it is inevitable, do not forget your
umbrella and UV filter sunglasses. Stay cool. Wear
light, loose-fitting clothing to help you stay cooler.
• Summer nap: Have a short rest or nap in the
afternoons. This will not only refresh you but also
prevent your undue exertions in heat of sun.
Every summer, thousands of people die due
to dehydration and heatstroke though the modes
to avoid them are so manageable. These easy
methods can help you cope better with the torments
of the summer season. It is important that you stay
healthy this summer•
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Safety Messenger | April 2015
Don’t ignore dehydration
D
ehydration occurs when there is not enough water to
replace what is lost throughout the day. Your system
literally dries out. It can be mild, moderate, or severe, based
on how much of your body’s fluid is lost or not replaced.
Severe dehydration may risk your life.
•
Dry, shriveled skin
•
Irritability or confusion
•
Dizziness or lightheadedness
•
Rapid heartbeat
Dehydration occurs owing to simple reasons:
•
Breathing rapidly
•You don’t drink enough because you are sick (fever,
sore throat or mouth sores) or busy
•
Sunken eyes
•
Listlessness
•You lack access to safe drinking water when you are
travelling, hiking or camping
•
Shock (lack of blood flow through the body)
•
Unconsciousness
•
Sweating too much in hot weather
Treatment for dehydration
•
Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Try sipping water or sucking on ice cubes
• Urinating too much (uncontrolled diabetes or some
medications, like diuretics, can cause you to urinate a lot)
• Try drinking water or sports drinks that contain
electrolytes
Symptoms
• Do not take salt tablets. They can cause a serious
complication
Signs of mild to moderate dehydration
• Thirst
• Dry or sticky mouth
• Not urinating much
• Darker yellow urine
• Dry, cool skin
• Headache
• Muscle cramps
• Learn what to eat if you have diarrhoea
For more severe dehydration or heat emergency, you
may need to stay in a hospital and receive fluid through a
vein (IV). Your healthcare provider will also treat the cause
of the dehydration.
Possible complications
If untreated, severe dehydration may cause
oDeath
Signs of severe dehydration
o
• Not urinating, or very dark yellow or amber-coloured
urine
oSeizures•
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Permanent brain damage
81
Environment
HOW TO BEAT
URBAN HEAT
The Urban Heat Island is one of the biggest issues currently affecting
residents in large cities. An UHI is a city or metropolitan area that
is significantly warmer than its surrounding rural areas, predictably
owing to human activities. In this article Kavitha Nambiar, describes
the main causes of the UHI effect and suggests mitigative measures.
Kavitha has a Master’s in Environmental Science & Management
from the University of California in US, and is currently an Associate
with the Alliance to Save Energy, in Washington DC.
A
Kavitha Nambiar
 Cool roofing
82
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
ccording to the United Nations, more
than half the world’s population currently
lives in urban areas. Projections show
that increasing migration to cities,
combined with the overall growth of the world’s
population, could add another 2.5 billion people
to urban populations by 2050, with close to 90% of
the increase concentrated in Asia and Africa. Not
surprisingly, ‘mega-cities’ with over 10 million people
today will continue to grow swiftly in population.
Two Indian cities – Delhi and Mumbai – make the
list of UN’s five most populous cities, and much like
with power, growth brings its own set of issues and
responsibilities.
“Managing urban areas has become one of the
most important development challenges of the 21st
century. Our success or failure in building sustainable
cities will be a major factor in the success of the
post-2015 UN development agenda,” according to
John Wilmoth, Director of the Population Division
83
of the United Nations Department of Economic
and Social Affairs (UN DESA), in the UN Report on
World Urbanisation Prospects. If managed well,
cities offer important opportunities for economic
development and for expanding access to basic
services, including health care and education, for
large numbers of people. However, unsustainable
growth of a city can cause more damage than the
opportunities it creates.
Key strategies and technologies
• Make more efficient use of space in existing
occupied buildings, renovate and re-use
existing vacant buildings, sites, and associated
infrastructure, and consider re-development of
brownfield sites. Design buildings and renovations
to maximise future flexibility and reuse thereby
expanding useful life.
According to a research conducted by the wellreputed, Delhi-based research organisation Energy
and Resources Institute, temperatures in both Delhi
and Mumbai have risen by 2-3°C in the last 15
years. The ongoing study, based on NASA satellite
readings, also shows the cities to be 5-7°C warmer
than in the surrounding rural areas on summer
nights.
• When new development is unavoidable, steer
clear of sites that play a key role in the local or
regional ecosystem. Identify and protect valuable
greenfield and wetland sites from development.
•
Recognise that allowing higher-density
development in urban areas helps preserve green
space and reduce urban sprawl. Invest time and
energy in seeking variances and regulatory reform
where needed.
Causes of UHI
One of the biggest causes of Urban Heat
Islands is the progressive replacement of natural
surfaces by built surfaces through urbanization.
Natural surfaces are often composed of vegetation
and moisture-trapping soils, which utilise a relatively
large proportion of the absorbed radiation in the
evapotranspiration process. These plants release
water vapour that ultimately helps cool the air in
their vicinity. As vegetative surfaces are replaced by
buildings that are composed of a high percentage
of non-reflective and water-resistant construction
materials, a higher percentage of solar radiation is
absorbed and then released as heat.
Vegetation intercepts radiation and produces
shade that also contributes to reducing urban heat
release. The decrease and fragmentation of large
vegetated areas such as parks not only reduces
these benefits but also inhibits atmospheric cooling
due to horizontal air circulation generated by the
temperature gradient between vegetated and
urbanised areas, which is known as the Park Cool
Island Effect.
• Evaluate each site in terms of the location and
orientation of buildings and improvements in order
to optimise the use of passive solar energy, natural
day-lighting and natural breezes and ventilation.
Green Buildings
Good Solutions
A
majority of the world’s population is today
aware of the effects that development is
having on the environment and is looking for
more sustainable ways of living. Green Buildings
– built to suit local conditions and causing the
least environmental damage – are quickly gaining
traction as a feasible solution. In addition, green
buildings give maximum importance to the health
and comfort of the occupants.
The US Green Building Council (USGBC) was
formed in 1993 in response to an increased concern
over the lack of sustainability in the building and
construction industry. The USGBC’s LEED, or
Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design, is a
green building certification program that recognizes
best-in-class building strategies and practices. To
receive LEED certification, building projects satisfy
prerequisites and earn points to achieve different
levels of certification.
LEED has become one of the most widely
used green building rating systems in the world,
with 1.7 million square feet of construction space
being certified every day. LEED certification
provides independent verification of a building or
neighborhood’s green features, allowing for the
design, construction, operations and maintenance
of resource-efficient, high-performing, healthy, costeffective buildings. LEED is the triple bottom line in
action, benefiting people, the planet and profits.
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Safety Messenger | April 2015
In India, the Indian Green Building Council
(IGBC) aims to encourage construction of buildings
conducive to the environment and extend all support
to such initiatives. IGBC also strives to create
awareness among the public about the importance
of going green in building construction.
Indian Green Building Council’s rating systems,
launched in 2007, have made rapid strides in the
Green Building sector. These rating systems have
been successfully applied in India in 3,064 buildings
till date, with a footprint of 2.67 billion square feet.
Many government agencies, corporates, builders
and developers in India have taken the lead in
constructing green buildings. With the growing
demand for Green Buildings, there is a need to
enhance the knowledge of building professionals
about green building concepts and equip them with
the Green Building rating systems.
• Make the best use of existing mass transit
systems and make buildings and sites pedestrianfriendly and bike-friendly, including provisions for
safe storage of bicycles. Develop programmes
and incentives that promote carpooling, including
preferred parking for commuters who carpool.
Consider making provisions for refueling or
recharging alternative fuel vehicles.
• Help reduce the Urban Heat Island effect by
reducing the building and site development footprint,
maximising the use of pervious surfaces, and using
light-coloured roofs, paving, and walkways. Provide
natural shading of buildings and paved areas with
trees and other landscape features.
• Reduce impervious areas by carefully evaluating
parking and roadway design. Pursue variances or
waivers where local ordinances may unintentionally
result in the over-design of roadways or parking.
Fundamentals of Green Building
•
Green Buildings minimise urban sprawl
and needless destruction of valuable land, habitat
and green space, which result from inefficient lowdensity development.
•
Encourage
higher-density
urban
development, urban re-development and urban
renewal, and brownfield development as a means
to preserve valuable green space.
• Preserve key environmental assets through
careful examination of each site.
• Engage in a design and construction process
that minimises site disturbance and which values,
preserves and actually restores or regenerates
valuable habitat, green space and associated
ecosystems that are vital to sustaining life.
Safety Messenger | April 2015
85
On the contrary, the narrow arrangement of
buildings along the city’s streets forms urban
canyons that inhibit the escape of the reflected
radiation from most of the three-dimensional
urban surface to space. This radiation is ultimately
absorbed by the building walls, thus enhancing the
urban heat release. Additional factors such as the
scattered and emitted radiation from atmospheric
pollutants to the urban area, the production of waste
heat from airconditioning and refrigeration systems,
as well as from industrial processes and motor
traffic have been recognised as causes of the UHI
effect.
Richa Sharma, a researcher from Energy and
Resources Institute, describes the problem and
its consequences thus: “Incessant urbanisation
increases land-surface temperatures, and, over
time, the city ends up as an island of heat. Delhi,
Mumbai and their residents have been facing this
onslaught (of heat) for 20 years. It may eventually
result in unprecedented repercussions such as
heatwaves, health impacts, human discomfort, and
increased mortality among the elderly”
Mitigative measures
While mitigating climate change remains the only
long-term solution to solving the UHI issue, several
small measures can be taken at the local-level to
reduce its short-term effects. Cities in the United
States have found that the heat-island effect can
be counteracted slightly by using white or reflective
materials to build houses, roofs, pavements and
roads.
Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to mitigate
the effects of UHI is to increase the amount of
vegetation. ‘Green’ roofs have begun replacing
conventional dark-coloured roofs to mitigate the
adverse effects of dark impervious urban surfaces.
These are, however, more cost-intensive than simply
painting a rooftop white for higher reflection. In parts
of India where it rains, having soil and roots in the
rooftop can also lead to other structural issues if not
properly maintained. Many local communities are
taking action to reduce urban heat islands through
a combination of strategies, including increasing
local tree and vegetation covers, installing green
roofs and cooling roofs, and using cool pavements.
 Solar roofing
Scientists expect urban heatwaves to increase in
both frequency and intensity as cities in developing
countries grow. A study of 30 years’ weather records
by the Shanghai Urban Environmental Meteorology
Centre shows that warming differs according to the
degree of urbanisation, and that many more people
die from extreme heat in built-up areas than in areas
surrounding a city. Recent studies in Beijing have
shown that switching from gas-based vehicles to
electric cars could help alleviate the UHI effect.
While results are yet to be proven, there is no
question that new technologies and solutions will
continue to be developed – the only question that
remains is: how much time do we have?•
 Switching from gas
vehicles to electric cars
Cool roofs can reflect around 75% of the
Sun’s rays, and pale-coloured concrete reflects
up to 50% more light than asphalt. Cool roofs are
especially effective in commercial and residential
buildings, where significant energy demand for
cooling can be saved by reducing heat transfer into
the building. Richa Sharma says: “Building waterretentive pavements and installing reflective roofs
can be adopted to combat surface heat. Above
all, the need of the hour is to control urban sprawl
and put in place stringent policies for sustainable
urbanization.”
86
Safety Messenger | April 2015
E
Secutech India 2015
Concludes with
Record Turnout
ven as invgestigators are still groping in the
dark about what exactly caused the crash
of Germanwings flight in the high peaks of
Alps killing all the 150 persons aboard, the
latest revelations that the co-pilot was suffering from
depression has added credential to the theory that
the crash was deliberately executed by him in an
attempt to commit suicide.
Germanwings co-pilot Andreas Lubitz was
hiding an illness from his employers and had been
declared "unfit to work" by a doctor, according to
German authorities investigating what could have
prompted the seemingly competent and stable pilot
to steer his jetliner into the French Alps. Airplanes
don’t easily fall from the sky, especially not when
they are in the longest, least-stressful phase of flight
known as “cruise” at an altitudes above 30,000
fleet. Yet that’s what happened on 24th March 2014
in the case of the ill-fated Germanwings Flight 4U
9525, an Airbus A320.
CVR data
French air investigators examining a black box
cockpit voice recorder (CVR) from the debris of
the said they were puzzled as to why the crew did
not send out a mayday or distress signal as flight
U49525 rapidly lost altitude for eight minutes, or why
the pilot did not change course to avoid smashing
into a rocky ravine at around 430mph (700kmh). The
plane had taken off from Barcelona at 10.01am local
time. It was just under halfway through its journey to
Düsseldorf, where it had been expected to land at
11.55am, when it began to lose altitude.
The co-pilot Andreas Lubitz, a 28-yearold German, had taken control of the plane and
locked the pilot out of the plane’s cockpit after he
Security Conclave
Secutech India Safety and Security Conclave
2015, (SISSC-2015) the two day conference
recieved overwhelming response from the
government and corporate sectors. The conference
themes were related to ‘Smart Cities, Banking and
Oil & Gas-Energy sectors. This year SISSC 2015
had more than 40 plus renowned speakers and 500
plus delegates.
momentarily stepped outside. Voice recordings
revealed that the pilot then made increasingly
frantic attempts to get back into the cockpit during
the plane’s descent. The desperate cries of the
passengers, who had become aware of the danger,
could be heard in the final moments before the
plane came down. Though the co-pilot said nothing
during the plane’s final moments his breathing—
described as “normal” —could be heard until the
end, indicating that he was well aware of what
he was doing, according to investigators who
examined the black box.
 Search operations
at the crash site in the
peaks of Alps
T
he 4th edition of Secutech India, India’s
premier industry event for the Security and
Fire Safety Sector concluded successfully
with record turnout of 22,000 visitors.
Secutech India Safety and Security Conclave
(SISSC-2015) Conference, SHIELD Awards and
SECONA Knowledge Series Workshops got
overwhelming response from the high profile
Industry experts and delegates.
The Secutech India 2015 Exhibition was
inaugurated by Chief Guest Shri Chennamaneni
Vidyasagar Rao, Governor of Maharashtra.
Secutech India was organized by Messe Frankfurt
New Era Business Media (The organizers of the
world’s largest Security, Fire and safety show
Intersec- Dubai) and Asian Business Exhibition &
Conference.
Safety questions
However the incident has once again raised
crucial questions about aviation safety as evident
from reports that Airlines are changing procedures
to ensure that two crew are in the cockpit at all times
following the Germanwings tragedy that killed 150
people. Now budget carrier EasyJet has announced
the move will come into force soon and aviation
insiders say there are moves to make it 'mandatory'
across airlines.
“The world is looking up to India as it is rapidly
industrializing and in this process of urbanization it
has emerged as one of the fastest growing economy.
The leaders of the world are keen that India plays a
leading role in the global affairs. Recognizing the
trend for the need of urbanization in the country,
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced
the ambitious program of developing 100 smart
cities across India,” said Governor Chennamaneni
Vidyasagar Rao..
Meanwhile, the European Aviation Safety
Agency has issued a temporary recommendation
that cockpits always be staffed by at least two crew
members. Lufthansa and other German airlines
have already adopted the rule, the airline said. An
official with the German Aviation Association told
CNN that it was only a matter of hours, or a day at
most, for this rule to be implemented across all big
German airlines•
88
“Secutech India attracted loads of visitors from
all parts of India and across the globe. The show
is evolving with each edition with innovative fringe
programmes and media promotions,” concluded
Manish Gandhi, Chief Operating Officer, Asian
Business Exhibitions and Conferences Ltd.
“This year Secutech India brings in many
programs designed for vertical applications like
smart city, forum on finance industry, oil and gas
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Safety Messenger | April 2015
 Visitors and
dignatories at the
exhibition
SHIELD Awards Ceremony: SECONA presented
SHIELD Awards powered by Secutech India in
Association with WIPRO at a glittering ceremony
attended by nearly 600 industry well wishers on
13th March 2015, at the exhibition venue. India’s
first annual SHIELD Awards were given in various
categories, for recognizing excellence in the Indian
Electronic Security & Safety Industry. It involved
a stringent process of vetting the nominations
by an eminent jury panel consisting of highly
acclaimed individuals in the fields of security, safety,
governance and management.
“This is the first year SECONA has organized
the SHIELD Awards, we look forward to its success
and its betterment in the coming years. These
awards are for excellence in safety and security
Industry,” said D.Sivanandhan, IPS Retd., Chairman,
SECONA.
“In its first year itself, the SHIELD Awards have
generated tremendous enthusiasm in the industry. It
is our way of recognizing excellence that can inspire
further acts of excellence within the Indian security
and safety technology industry,” said Prasad Patil,
Vice-Chairman, SECONA & Director, MIPL.
Knowledge Series Workshop: The SECONA
Knowledge Series Workshop was conducted by
certified consultants and leading Industry experts
at the venue. It got a very good response from
the system integrators, and security professionals’
community. Those who attended SECONA
Knowledge Series Workshop were given a certificate
by SECONA.
The 5th edition of Secutech India will take place
from 14-16 April 2016 at Bombay Exhibition Centre
(BEC), Goregaon, Mumbai•
89
Safety News
Safety News
Germanwings crash,
shocking revelations
and also the Shield Awards to honor the best in
the security Industry. We look forward to deliver the
best in the industry,” observed John Shi, General
Manager for Messe Frankfurt New Era Business
Media.
April, the airline signed a "multimillion dollar" contract
with the Sri Lankan Airlines for maintenance of its
aircraft. Jet Airways BSE 1.49 % takes its aircraft
to multiple destinations, including Malaysia, while
national carrier Air India maintains at least one of its
planes in China.
Major countries to sign
global pact on climate
Domestic MRO companies are increasingly
making efforts to set up facilities abroad to garner
business, much of which is expected to come from
Indian carriers. Air Works is planning to set up a
facility in Malaysia•
historical emissions should be responsible for
combating climate change. “Perhaps, no country
could potentially be more affected by the impacts of
climate change and no country is going to be more
important in moving forward a strong agreement
than India, ” US President Obama said at a joint
press conference with Modi. Coming barely two
months after the US-China commitment, the Indian
agreement marks a less ambitious, yet arguably
crucial step towards a much-hoped-for international
agreement at the UN summit in Paris later in 2015•
Social Media Overuse
Threats Flight Safety
TV recipes not
healthy
U
nder the UN Framework Convention on
Climate Change (UNFCCC), countries
across the globe have committed to creating
a new international climate agreement by the
conclusion of the Paris Climate Summit scheduled
for December 2015. The United States, China and
India are expected to sign an agreement to reduce
carbon emission at the UN summit.
T
he aviation industry is pinning its hopes on
the Narendra Modi-led government's 'Make in
India' campaign to better exploit the potential
of aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO)
business.
Representatives of the industry have written to the
aviation ministry as part of pre-Budget consultations
to reiterate their demand of a cut in taxes in what
it believes is a $700-million (Rs 4,400-crore) a year
opportunity.
Industry executives say that high taxes and
royalty charged by airports make the levies in India
up to 50% higher than the global average and the
domestic companies manage to get slightly more
than just a tenth of the potential MRO business in
the country.
Several stakeholders, including the lobbying
body MRO Association of India and global aircraft
manufacturers have written to the government in the
past month, requesting it to slash taxes.
The association has urged the government to
increase the duration for which imported aircraft
spares can be kept in storehouses without being
taxed to three years from one year at present.
Besides, the industry has sought a reduction in
royalty charged by airports for charged by airports
for usage of space for MRO facilities, from 13% for
those under the Airports Authority of India and up to
30% for private airports.
All airlines in India currently prefer to use
overseas facilities for most of their maintenance
work. Indigo, the country's biggest carrier has been
taking its Airbus A320 planes to the Sri-Lankan
Airlines' facility in Colombo since February 2009. In
90
During previous climate negotiations, countries
had agreed to outline publicly what actions they
intended to take under a global agreement well
before the Paris Summit. In November 2014,
Chinese President Xi Jinpingand and US President
Barack Obama had made a commitment to combat
jointly climate change.
A
recent survey report says that recipes
followed from television are not likely to be
healthy. The recipes sourced from TV may
help you weigh about 5 kg more than if you watch
cooking shows for entertainment and do not often
cook.
While the US set targets to reduce overall
emissions by 26%-28% below its 2005 levels by
2025, China committed to stop its carbon emissions
from growing by 2030 – monumental objectives
for the world’s two largest carbon emitters. In the
aftermath of this landmark goal, all eyes were on
India, the third largest emitter, for signs of a similar
agreement.
One reason for this phenomenon may be
that often the recipes portrayed on TV are not the
healthiest and allow you to feel like it's ok to prepare
and indulge in either less nutritious food or bigger
portions, said co-author Brian Wansink, director of
Cornell University's Food and Brand Lab.
The people who were surveyed were found to
be obtained recipe information from cooking shows
and often cooked from scratch, weighed an average
of 5 kg more than those who watched food TV but
did not often cook and those who looked for new
recipes in print, online or from in-person sources.
Earlier in 2015, India’s Prime Minister Narendra
Modi met US President Obama to discuss a US-India
agreement on Clean Energy and Climate Change.
These goals will increase solar power to 100 GW by
2022 – five times above the previous target. Shifting
to a low-carbon pathway will have several benefits,
including providing a cleaner energy source than
coal, which currently provides 72% of India’s
electricity, and, crucially, it will increase energy
security in a nation where over 300 million people
still do not have access to electricity. While these
are ambitious goals, the environmental community
is disappointed that India has once again failed to
address the “elephant in the room” by not setting a
peaking year for carbon-dioxide emissions.
These findings, published in the journal
Appetite, indicate that it is advantageous for cooks
to gather recipe information from sources other than
television. Because many cooking shows normalise
over-consumption and gratification, it comes as no
surprise that viewers' culinary habits are negatively
influenced. This is why it is so important for cooks
who enjoy watching these shows to recognise these
influences and learn to modify recipes to be more
healthful or find recipes from other sources, said the
authors•
Safety Messenger | April 2015
India’s stance is that countries with the highest
Safety Messenger | April 2015
F
iguring out what causes its fighter pilots to
make fatal errors in their cockpits, the Indian
Air Force (IAF) has officially identified that
Social Media could be posing a serious threat to
flight safety.
In a strongly-worded communication to all of the
Air Force's combat flying squadrons in the country,
the IAF's chief of flight safety Air Marshal P.P. Reddy
earlier in 2014 had expressed extreme concern over
what he sees as an over-indulgence in social media
by pilots and flying crew, leading to their lack of
sleep and an erosion in their ability to focus.
Air Marshal Reddy was deeply concerned over
the unhealthy pre-occupation with social networking
media and the tools which enable it.
The pilots need to exercise discretion to maintain
a healthy balance between highly demanding
profession and distractions like social networking
media, mobiles and laptops to name a few.
Top IAF sources revealed that a spate of at least
four incidents, the first one in July 2012, has led to
alarm within the flight safety directorate, ending in
the unusually forthright missive from the IAF's flight
safety chief.
It is understood that the four incidents involved
pilots reporting for flying duties without adequate
rest, leading to informal internal inquiries that
established they had spent late nights using their
mobile phones and tablets to use Facebook, Twitter,
Whatsapp and other social tools•
91
Safety News
Safety News
Aviation sector pins
hope on ‘Make in India’
Campaign
Safety News
India’s Upgraded MIG-29UPG
took to the Skies
MIG 29 is the combat proven fighter in the
Indian standards, they flew missions during Kargil,
close escort for other IAF Bombers, CAP near to
Indian Borders, and even more the Indian MIG
29 locks a Bakistani F 16 through its deadly BVR
missile. The MIG 29 is the best fighter in comparison
with Bakistani F 16, since ages the MIG needs an
excessive upgrade to keep fighting in the Modern
Battlefield•
Pilots at high risk
of skin cancer
T
he Indian Air force’s first MIG-29UPG,
modernised by Indian specialists, completed
its first scheduled test flights. The upgrading
of MIG 29 Fleet into the modern standard that is
the UPG version will make the UPG better in all
variant of other MIG 29. India had earlier signed an
agreement with Russia to upgrade the total IAF MIG
29 B fighters into latest UPG Standards and, the
deal signed at $900 million. The deal covers the first
six of the MIG 29 will be upgraded in Russia, while
remaining MIG planes will be upgraded in India.
The contract was signed in 2009. The Upgrade will
give the MIG 29 more service life and improved
performance. The Major Modernization aspects are
the Radar, Sensor Suite, modern Airframe, modern
Cock pit, improved Avionics.
Now the Indian Navy alone operates world's best
MiG 29 version - the MIG 29 K and KUB version,
even after only the Russian Navy placed an order to
acquire a squad of MIG 29K to its Navy. Mostly the
MIG 29 operates from the Carrier Vikramaditya but
can also be used from Shore based Naval Runways.
IAF planned its MIG 29 fleet should be more equal
to the Navy's MIG 29.The Indian Air force Operates
more than 70 MiG 29 B fighters.
The Initial MIG 29 B performed only Air superiority
Mission, which can intercept Dog fight and Flew
CAP, but the new UPG standard allows the fighter
to attack moving ground targets, air to sea warfare
and decent day, night and all weather capabilities.
The Indian Air force’s first modern fourth
Generation Air superiority fighter is the MIG 29. It was
produced in mind of Fighting against new American
rivals F 15 and the F 16, and the Indian Air Force is
the first foreign customer of MIG 29. IAF ordered a
Batch of MIG 29 even before it certified the FOC.
The MIG formally inducted into the IAF during the
1985 two years later in the Soviet Air force.
92
A
new study findings from the University of
California, San Francisco report that aircraft
pilots are at considerable risk of skin cancer,
being exposed to ultra violet (UV) rays of the sun,
which aircraft windshields do not completely block.
According to researchers, pilots flying for an
hour at an altitude of 30,000 feet are exposed to
the same amount of solar radiation as during 20
minutes on a tanning bed. These (exposure) levels
could be significantly higher when flying over thick
cloud layers and snow fields, which could reflect up
to 85 percent of UV radiation.
The study found that airplane windshields, made
of polycarbonate plastic, or multilayer composite
glass, do not completely block UV-A radiation.
The researchers concluded that compared with
the general population, airline pilots and flight crews
may be twice as much at the risk of melanoma
(malignant skin cancer). UV-A radiation can cause
DNA damage in cells and its role in melanoma - a
lethal type of skin cancer - is well known, according
to the report.
Aircrews were also found to face an increased
risk of exposure to cosmic rays -X-rays, gamma rays
and subatomic particles - from space. While shortwave UV-B radiation cannot easily penetrate glass
and plastic windows, long-wave UV-A is much more
likely to get through, though both kinds of UV rays
can cause skin ageing and cancer•
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Drager DrugTest 5000
laser signaling devices that provide a convenient,
effective way to signal a rescue party up to 20 miles
away. It is a safe and effective survival tool that
offers the following advantages over conventional
pyrotechnic flares.
Kit sample within just few minutes, this state-ofthe-art opto-electronic system weighs less than
4.5 kg. The product features a user-friendly, menudriven, illuminated display which can be easily
read, even at acute angles. Eliminating the possible
misinterpretation of results by ensuring that the
only result visible is an accurate one, the full colour,
user display interface can show one of five installed
languages at any one time and, this selection can
be customized.
Features
• Visibility range up to 20 miles at night; 1-3 miles
during the day
• Multi-purpose - use it for signaling or finding
reflective materials
The non-hazardous, high-visibility
laser signal light for Aircraft.
W
hether you need to signal for help or just
want to locate a reflective object in the dark,
the Rescue Laser Light is the incredibly
versatile, easy-to-use tool that does it all. This multipurpose device is waterproof, environmentally safe,
and does not pose a fire hazard. Its red laser diode
can be seen up to 3 miles away during daylight
hours and over 20 miles away at night. Laser Light’s
simple twist-on/twist-off operation, light weight
(3 oz.), and compact size make it easy to use
whenever needed. A single CR123 3-volt Lithium
battery provides up to 40 hours of reliable power. In
short, it is a safe, simple, and dependable source
of illumination.
Rescue Laser Flares are hand-held nighttime
•
No fire hazard - will not start a fire
N
• Environmentally safe - can be carried onboard
an aircraft
o pipetting, no drips, no timing: Collecting
an oral fluid sample is quick and easy with
the Drager DrugTest® 5000. The collected
sample can then be analysed immediately for
accurate results on the spot. International safety
manufacturer, Drager, has added to its portfolio
after its drug detection equipment was given the
green light for roadside drug testing.
• Waterproof to 80 feet - anodized to resist
corrosion
• Environmentally safe - can even be carried
aboard an aircraft
•
Easy to operate - twist-on, twist off
• Operates 40 hours on single CR123 3-volt
lithium battery
•
The Drager DrugTest® 5000 which is a fully
automated system comprises of two main
components: the DrugTest 5000 Test Kits and
the DrugTest 5000 Analyzer. The system is a fast,
accurate means of testing oral fluid samples for
drugs of abuse, such as amphetamines, designer
amphetamines, opiates, cocaine and metabolites,
enzodiazepine, cannabinoides or methadone.
Compact – Weighs only 3 oz.
• Long life RED laser diode – 10,000 hours
meantime to failure
• Small enough to carry in your pocket or put on
your life jacket!
•
Limited Lifetime Warranty•
Revere Aero Compact Liferaft for Aviation
raft knife, and a USCG-approved water-activated
locator light. The integral CO2 inflation system fully
inflates the raft in less than 30 seconds, and the
compact case make storage easy in virtually any
GA baggage compartment. A proven, easy-to-use
liferaft build to withstand the rigors of nature's worst
conditions.
of the MiG-29SMT upgrade. The Zhuk-ME is finding
success on export MiG-29 aircraft to countries like
India.
T
94
With easily configured software, the flexible menu
can also be quickly configured to meet the needs
of different applications. With its carry bag and
transportation box, this mobile system is suitable
as complete “substance abuse monitoring” setting
for on-the-spot measures, supplied with Mobile
Printer, keyboard, DrugTest® 5000 test kits, breath
alcohol testing device, mouthpieces, system
documentation among other supplies•
Providing reliable and precise analysis of the Test
N010M Zhuk-M Radar
he N010M Zhuk-M is an advanced variant
of the original N010 Zhuk radar introducing
advanced air-to-surface functions like
mapping and terrain following. The radar forms part
The analyzer's integral data memory allows for up
to 500 individual measurements to be stored. The
Drager DrugTest® 5000 Analyzer, with its simple
three-key operation, can also be easily linked to a
wide variety of data recording devices such as a
PC, printer or barcode scanner. In addition to data
management, a built-in self-test capability controls
temperature, optics and general operation with
several different sensors.
The N010M Zhuk-M Radar is the passive radar
which is most suitable for advanced air to surface
mode to fly and attack at very low altitude. Due to
the radar's terrain mapping and following on who
is guiding the pilot to fly at very low altitudes, the
radar can pick upto sixty airborne targets and able
to detect targets beyond 200 kilometers. The radar
allows the pilot to attack multiple targets in same
time and also it is a good option of monitoring a
single unit or building for long time. The radar is a
very useful option in non conventional and hybrid
warfare’s.
The Radar also incorporates the IRST, an infrared
search and Track optics which can launch heat
seeking missiles. The Radar is also used for
launching TV guided Missiles•
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Liferaft Accessories Include:
• 20 ft. (6m) Painter line
• Hand Pump
• Sea Anchor
E
xtended overwater flight demands more than
a suitable liferaft; it demands a top-quality raft
that's guaranteed to stand up to the rigors of
the environment and facilitate search-and-rescue
efforts. Revere's compact, 4-person raft features a
pair of 200-lb ballast pockets to facilitate stability in
the roughest of seas. Also includes a sea anchor,
Safety Messenger | April 2015
• Raft Knife
• Pressure Relief Valve
• CO2 Inflation System
• USCG-Approved Water-Activated Locator Light
• 2 Ballast Bags
• Valise•
95
PRoducts
PRoducts
Rescue Laser Light
Yuneec Q500 Typhoon RTF
with CGO2-GB Camera
know exactly where your device is, where it's been,
and where it might be heading.
dedicated 3-axis brushless mounting gimbal; an
8GB micro SD card; a USB adapter/charger; a DC
cigarette lighter charger; an extra set of 4 rotors; a
sun shade; and a pair of 5400 mAh 3S 11.1 V LiPo
batteries - absolutely everything you need to enjoy
hours of high-flying fun!
The extremely long-life battery is good for years,
and even sends status updates when it reaches a
low power state. Users can also choose to receive
once-a-day messages for the peace of mind of
knowing their prized possession is safe and sound.
It is a low-cost, highly reliable tracking device that
can be traced virtually anywhere on earth.
Satellite-based theft alert device
with text/email messaging
T
he SPOT Trace makes it easy to keep an eye
on your most prized possessions. At just 6.4
oz. and 5" x 4" x 2", the GPS-enabled device
is discreet enough to blend in to your car, boat,
plane, motorcycle, computer, or virtually any other
high-value device. Depending on selected setting,
users can receive text or email notifications every
time the device moves, when it stops moving, as
well as periodic tracking updates every 2.5, 5, 10,
30, or 60 minutes. Follow along on Google Maps to
User-friendly and affordable, SPOT Trace's compact
design and multiple mounting options allow you to
track practically anything. A long battery life and
plug-in power option lets you track with no worries.
Using 100% satellite technology, SPOT Trace tracks
your most valuable assets virtually anywhere in
the world, beyond the reach of traditional cellular
coverage.
Ready-to-fly, remote control aerial
photography and videography (APV)
quadcopter kit
I
f you thought capturing stunning aerial
photography and exciting airborne video was
only possible on a major movie studio/television
station budget, just wait until you get a load of the
incredibly capable Yuneec Q500 Typhoon RTF. This
phenomenal remote control quadcopter is both
budgets friendly and remarkably easy to operate.
It's also ready for action right out of the box!
SPOT Trace Message Features:
• Tracking
• Movement Alerts
• Dock Mode
• Power Off Message
• Low Battery Message
• Status Message
In addition to the aircraft and the ST10 personal
ground station, purchase includes the CGO2GB 12-megapixel, 1080p (60 fps) camera with
• Customized Tracking Options to Fit Your Needs
• Select the rate at which tracking updates are
sent — every 2 1/2, 5, 10, 30 or 60 minutes•
your aviation arsenal. For starters, it's perfectly sized
to fit a variety of mini tablets including the Kindle Fire
HD, iPad Mini, Galaxy Tab 3, Galaxy Note 8, Kobo
Arc 7, and the Boogie Board 8.5 LCD eWriter. It's
also optimized for the flight deck - and user comfort
- with a padded bottom and an adjustable leg strap
that fastens via a sturdy buckle. Additionally, its
1200D Nylon construction ensures that it will hold up
for many an airborne adventure to come. Measures
10" L x 7" W x ½" D, it is a phenomenal accessory
that every 21st Century aviator is sure to adore.
I
96
While the Q500 offers a superior flying experience, it
is the quality of the video and still images that sets
it apart. The CGO2 GB combines the 12 megapixel,
1080p/60FPS camera and the 3-axis brushless
gimbal into a single unit that captures smooth,
steady aerial video and still images in vivid detail.
By far it is the most comprehensive, cost-effective,
user-friendly RC quad copter package on the
market today•
tool. Of note is its ultra-bright LED flashlight with
lifetime LED bulb that's good for 100,000+ hours
of reliable illumination. Powered by a pair of AAA
batteries, the 5.75" light features a pocket clip for
handy storage. For emergencies, its durable end
point is also handy as both a glass break tool and
a self defense weapon. In short, it is a very high
quality, multi-use item at an outstanding price.
Features
Features
f you're a modern-day pilot whose "No-Go" checklist
includes your tablet, the Gator Kneeboard for
Tablets and iPad Mini is just the item you need in
Still not impressed? Wait until you take the Q500
out for a spin. The 10-channel, 2.4GHz transmitter
features a built-in 5.8 GHz video downlink for First
Person View (FPV) and also displays on-screen
telemetry data. Additionally, the copter's "Coming
Home" and "Follow Me" functions make operation a
breeze - even for beginners. Batteries provide 20-25
minutes of flight time. Aircraft measures 210mm H
x 420mm L x 420mm W and weighs 40 oz (1130 g).
With the camera attached, the ship weighs 60 oz
(1700 g).
Tactical Penlight/Self
Defense/Glass Break Tool
Gator Kneeboard for
Tablets and iPad Mini
Tablet Kneeboard with Adjustable
Leg Strap.
PRoducts
PRoducts
SPOT Trace
•
Constructed of rugged 1200D Nylon
•
Padded Bottom
• Adjustable straps allows it to fit any leg
comfortably
• Knee Board fits iPad Mini, Kindle Fire HD,
Galaxy Tab 3, Galaxy Note 8, and Kobo Arc 7•
Safety Messenger | April 2015
Lightweight, multi-purpose
tool and LED flashlight.
S
utility
mith & Wesson's Tactical Penlight/Self
Defense/Glass Break Tool brings users a host
of features in a single lightweight, compact
Safety Messenger | April 2015
•
Ultra-Bright LED Tactical Flashlight
•
Lasts 100,000+ Hours
•
Lifetime LED Bulb
•
Self Defense Tool
•
Glass Break Tool for Home, Plane or Auto
•
2 AAA Batteries & Pocket Clip Included
All performance ratings have been independently
lab tested to ANSI FL1 Standards•
97
Readers Page
or other countries kept the affected ones isolated.
There are rarely very few people like Doctor Kalyani
Gomathinayakam, who shows an immense courage
to treat patients afflicted with the deadly Ebola virus
disease.
The issue of crimes
in the high seas
Safety Messenger has rightly chosen a really topical issue-marine/
maritime safety-as the focal theme of the March 2015 issue. The latest
challenges of maritime safety such as the agravating menance of
piracy and terrorists using coastal waters for subversive activities were
highlighted and updated in a manner beneficial to the readers. The
editorial touching these issues was also commendable.
Safety of our occeans is a vast subject and there is a need for
greater international cooperation to tackle issues arising out of crimes
occuring in high seas. A typical example is the case of the two Italian
naval personnel charged with the murder of two Indian fishermen in
international waters. The case is still dragging. This calls for fast track
trial in cases inolving diplomatic isuses.
Hope the magazine will give due focus on such issues with a view to
generating some meaningful debate.
Pavithra Banerejee, Kolkatta
Beach and Ocean Safety is necessary
The ocean environment provides a variety of recreational opportunities for
the visiting group of public, but it can prove to be as dangerous as it is fun
and exciting. A little ocean knowledge can help reduce this danger, insuring
a fun and safe beach experience. To achieve this, the people must have the
knowledge of awaiting hazards in the ocean. The governmental bodies should
strongly initiate programmes on putting boards of awareness including tips on
how to stay safe and avoid becoming a victim.
Our Oceans have the abundance of resources. It is being exploited in different
ways. Environmentalists and world ocean protection agencies are working
through awareness programmes, campaigns, seminars and conferences to
wake the world of growing importance of our oceans for the existence of earth.
To make these efforts successful, each one of us has to work toward it, by at
least not polluting our environment and avoid dumping unwanted things into our
waters (rivers, backwaters, sea etc.).
B Prasanna Kumar, Kollam, Kerala
The Courage to be true to
one’s profession
The February issue which covered the feature of a lady doctor, who had
to deal and live with the Ebola patients in Africa, is really admirable. It needs
courage and a true love to this profession in medicine to render services during
such emergencies. Many doctors and social workers from across the globe
showed the same courage, when most of the people in their own neighborhoods
98
A decade ago in India, we had a saint like Lady
Mother Theresa, who dedicated her life for the
neglected, deserted, poor and the needy of the
society. In the profession of medicine, now-a-days,
we can rarely see any dedicated professionals who
are100% sincere to their job. Most of the doctors
see their profession as a means of making money
and never waste an opportunity when they get it. A
doctor must be a person who can understand his/
her patients and dedicated to the profession.
I really appreciate the efforts of Safety
Messenger Magazine which has included the three
major important factors HSE (Health, Safety and
Environment) of a human life. In the future issues
too I expect more genuine efforts as this.
Anita Bhatia, Ramakrishnapuram, Hyderabad
India Needs to Stress
on Industrial Safety
India has been a country purely dependent
on agriculture for livelihood before independence.
It has been successful in achieving autonomy in
producing different basic and capital products
since independence. Although, our country
achieved great heights in industrial growth and
claims to have the best industrial safety standards,
as it is mentioned in one of the articles of February
issue, it is poor in practicing this so called “Safety
Standards”. The article really points out to the areas
where we need to improve our safety concerns.
Many industries are growing to a level that they
exploit the people and nature around them. The
ruling governments often do nothing to stop such
exploitations and are often seem to support the
cause of such industries. We need industries, but
there should be strict norms and a government that
can take strict actions against industries who do not
keep the safety standards.
R. Parameshwar, Hyderabad
Readers opinions, suggestions and
criticisms as very valuable to us. Please feel
free to share your views in the
'readers page' exclusively kept for Safety
Messenger readers.
Send your mail to
editor@safetymessenger.in
Editor
Safety Messenger | April 2015
KERENG/2014/59456
Safety Messenger
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