Vajra Builders Pvt. Ltd organized a comprehensive training session on Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) for the staff of Jigme Namgyel Engineering College (JNEC) in two batches. The first batch of 19 staff members attended the training from 3rd – 5th June 2024, while the second batch of 18 staff members attended from 11th – 13th June 2024. The training sessions were held at the Vajra Construction Service Centre (VCSC) in Thimphu and facilitated by officials from the Department of Labour, engineers from Vajra Builders, and faculty from JNEC.
The training covered a wide range of safety implementation aspects for construction and workplace environments, including:
- Understanding the Rules and Regulations for the Construction Industry: Participants were briefed on the essential legal requirements and standards in the construction sector to ensure compliance and safety.
- Hazard Identification and Prediction: Emphasis was placed on hazard identification using the Point and Call method, a popular Japanese technique for hazard prevention. This method helps in minimizing errors and accidents through verbal and gestural confirmation.
- Risk Assessment and Mitigation: The training included detailed sessions on risk assessment calculations, identifying potential hazards, and implementing risk mitigation measures to ensure a safer work environment.
- Safety Implementation in Specific Projects:
4.1 Tunnels and Underground Work: Special focus was given to safety protocols in tunnels and underground projects, including a case study of an explosion in tunnels due to gas leaks.
4.2 Suchhu Hydropower Project in Haa, Bhutan: The training highlighted safety implementation practices specific to hydropower projects.
4.3 Use of Gas Detecting Devices and Properties of Hydrocarbon Gases: Participants were informed on the importance of gas detecting devices and educated on the properties of hydrocarbon gases such as Methane and Hydrogen Sulphide, crucial for underground works and tunnels.
- Fire Safety and Use of Safety Equipment:
5.1 Hands-on Use of Fire Extinguishers: Practical sessions were conducted on the use of fire extinguishers and classification of fire extinguishers. Specific instruction was given to check the pressure of fire extinguishers on a monthly basis.
5.2 Demonstration and Use of Full Body Safety Harnesses: Participants were trained in the correct use of safety harnesses to prevent falls and injuries.
- Site Visits:
6.1 Vajra Builders storage and workshop sites: Visits included the walk around of their service centers and workshop such as welding and fabrication centers, storage centers, carpentry workshop,
6.2 Embassy Building in Hejo, Thimphu, Bhutan: Participants observed the construction of fair-faced walls, eliminating the need for plastering, and the use of shear walls as exterior walls.
- Development and Preparation of Action Checklists: The training included sessions on creating and using action checklists for various construction scenarios to ensure thorough safety checks and procedures.
The training provided a holistic approach to OHS, combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications, site visits, and hands-on experience, equipping JNEC staff with essential skills and knowledge to enhance safety in their respective workplaces.