Case Study: Fire Audit of Akums Lifesciences LTD.

Case Study: Fire Audit of Akums Lifesciences LTD.

Client Overview:

Akums Lifesciences LTD. engaged HSE Risk Management Services Private Limited to conduct a Fire Audit with the objective of assessing and enhancing safety measures at their plant. The company, specializing in pharmaceutical manufacturing, operates a facility that requires strict adherence to fire safety regulations to protect personnel, assets, and ensure business continuity.

Fire Audit Concept: A Fire Audit is a systematic evaluation of a facility to assess compliance with fire safety standards and regulations. It involves reviewing documentation, inspecting equipment, assessing emergency procedures, and conducting site observations to identify potential fire hazards. The ultimate goal is to ensure a secure environment by preventing and mitigating fire risks.

Fire Audit Methodology:

1. Pre-audit Data Request and Preparation: Prior to the audit, HSE Risk Management Services requested essential data including building plans, fire safety plans, training records, inspection logs, emergency response procedures, permits, fire drill records, and compliance documents.

2. Opening Meeting: An opening meeting was held to outline objectives, clarify roles, and gain commitment from Akums Lifesciences' team members. Key goals included introducing the audit team, defining the audit scope, and setting expectations for the assessment process.

3. Site Observations: On-site inspections were conducted to physically assess fire safety measures. This included checking fire extinguishers, inspecting emergency exits, reviewing evacuation plans, testing fire alarm systems and emergency lighting, inspecting sprinkler systems and fire doors, assessing electrical equipment, and confirming employee training in fire safety procedures.

4. Document Verifications: Critical documents such as fire safety plans, training records, equipment inspection logs, emergency response procedures, and contractor compliance documents were verified. This ensured compliance with regulations and identified areas needing improvement.

5. Debriefing/Closing Meeting: A closing meeting was conducted to present findings and recommendations. This meeting highlighted significant safety issues, provided a summary of audit findings, and facilitated discussions on corrective actions and improvement plans.

6. Reporting and Recommendations: A comprehensive fire audit report was provided, detailing audit findings and recommending actions for improvement. Recommendations were categorized into immediate actions (within 6 months) and long-term implementations (within 1.5 years). Specific recommendations included upgrading the fire hydrant system, installing a sprinkler system in the tank farm area, and enhancing the earthing and lightning arrestor systems.

Safety Audit Methodology:

Challenges:

The audit faced challenges typical of complex industrial environments, such as ensuring comprehensive coverage of all safety systems, addressing compliance gaps, and coordinating with various stakeholders to implement recommendations effectively.

Recommendations:

The recommendations focused on enhancing fire safety measures:

• Immediate Recommendations: Urgent actions like upgrading the earthing system and ensuring continuity of earthing for equipment handling flammable chemicals.

• Long-Term Recommendations: Strategic improvements such as upgrading the fire water system and installing additional sprinkler systems to enhance fire protection across the facility.

By conducting a thorough Fire Audit, Akums Lifesciences LTD. and HSE Risk Management Services aimed to not only meet regulatory requirements but also to create a safer working environment, safeguarding both personnel and infrastructure against fire hazards. This proactive approach underscores their commitment to maintaining high standards of safety and operational resilience.