Nagpur: After the devastating explosion at the explosives unit in Raulgaon claimed 23 lives, Maharashtra is fast-tracking a major revamp of its explosives safety framework. Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis directed officials to prepare comprehensive recommendations to align the Explosives Rules 2008 with global benchmarks, effectively consigning the “outdated and toothless” regulations to history.A high-level three-member panel comprising Nagpur divisional commissioner, district collector, and superintendent of police (Nagpur Rural) has been constituted. The team, supported by experts from National Fire Service College is finalising a detailed report. Sources indicate the document will be structured in 4 key sections, each incorporating international standards to shift from manual processes to automation and robotics, thereby minimising human exposure to high-risk operations, based on economic viability and technical availability.The first section proposes adoption of NFPA 495 (National Fire Protection Association Explosive Materials Code), recognised worldwide as the gold standard for explosives safety. It will cover critical stages, including packing, storage, transportation, and handling. Officials note the current Indian rules remain “too generic”, failing to address modern explosive intensities and leaving facilities prone to catastrophic failures, as evidenced by the recent tragedy and earlier incidents in the region.The second section integrates Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) process safety management guidelines, emphasising proactive hazard identification, prevention protocols, robust equipment standards, and emergency response measures. “We’re building layered safety nets, not just patching rules,” a senior govt official stated. The focus is on stopping accidents and limiting damage.Electrical hazards, a recurring factor in earlier blasts, including static electricity sparks from ungrounded machinery, form the core of the third section. Drawing from IEC 60079 standards, the recommendations mandate spark-proof equipment, comprehensive grounding systems, static discharge mechanisms, and enhanced electrical safety protocols across all explosives-handling zones.The most forward-looking component — the fourth section — maps the entire explosives production chain and identifies stages where robotics and automation can replace manual intervention. “Full automation may not be feasible for every unit immediately, but targeted upgrades in high-risk areas can significantly reduce fatalities based on viability,” experts emphasised. The ultimate objective is to drastically cut human presence in danger zones.
