New Delhi: Taking serious note of “non-uniform” implementation of safety protocols at construction and maintenance sites, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has directed all deputy commissioners to submit action taken reports within three days.“This is unacceptable. The chief secretary, Delhi govt, already issued directions on Feb 7, and the norms should be adhered to in letter and spirit,” stated a circular issued by the additional commissioner of the engineering wing on Tuesday.The move comes after a man died after falling into an open DJB pit in Janakpuri on Feb 6.In the circular, MCD said inadequate safety measures endangered public life, particularly pedestrians, vulnerable road users and construction workers at project sites. Proper barricading, signage, lighting, reflective tapes and other mandatory safety norms must be strictly followed at all work sites, it stressed, warning non-compliance would invite accountability.“The provisions in the MCD safety code shall be followed compulsorily and shall be binding on the contractor. Officers shall ensure compliance. No work shall proceed without approved scaffolding, fencing, railings, and safe excavation procedures. Personal protective equipment must remain available at the site at all times,” the circular stated.“No person below 18 years shall be engaged in hazardous activities, including lead painting. Life-saving equipment shall be ensured at sites with a risk of drowning. All hoisting machines and supports must conform to prescribed standards,” it said.Deputy commissioners have been asked to ensure immediate corrective measures and provide strong justification for any delay.“All work zones shall compulsorily adopt traffic management measures, including advance warning systems, installation of retro-reflective signage, cones, barricades, delineators and lighting devices. Special arrangements for vulnerable road users with protected pathways and speed control must be ensured. No site will be allowed to operate without these arrangements,” the circular added.All junior engineers and sanitary inspectors have been directed to personally ensure that no manhole or pit remains uncovered and that broken covers are replaced the same day. Monthly safety certificates also must be submitted to the zonal deputy commissioners.“Officers failing to enforce these directions shall face disciplinary action under relevant service rules without any further notice,” the circular stated.
