|
|
|
|
In this interaction with Niranjan Mudholkar, BK Dhar, CEO of Mfar Constructions Pvt Ltd emphasises the importance of on-site safety, offers some insights about industry trends and discusses the way ahead.
Mfar has now completed thirteen years in India. How would you describe the journey so far?
The journey so far has been very stimulating and encouraging. Mfar has managed to earn a name by benchmarking itself against the best construction companies. Designing itself on the Gung Ho* spirit, Mfar today employs state-of-the-art machinery, top quality building materials and advanced techniques.
The company shows concern for the construction worker by providing comfortable accommodation with lights, fans, bunk beds, separate cooking areas, bathrooms and toilets.
Story continues below 
Our labour camps are run professionally. The children of our workers are provided with uniforms, books, stationary, mid day meals and facilities like crèches. These initiatives have been well received and have become a part of the Mfar culture. Mfar has brought dignity and respect for the humble construction worker. (*Gung ho is an American term derived from a Chinese expression that stands for an enthusiastic, can-do attitude).
Your assessment of the industry on issues like commitment to environment, product quality, safety and occupational health of workers?
Safety during construction is a neglected area in our country, but the trends are changing gradually. Construction companies are now showing concern for the environment, occupational health and safety.
No mega projects can take off without a clearance from the environment ministry. All construction activity is regulated by the Building & Other Construction Workers Act 1996 wherein great importance is given to occupational health and safety.
Another right step in this direction is the Green Building concept which is gradually catching up in India. There are over 350 green buildings with over 230 million sq ft of built-up area being constructed all over the country.
Similar to the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) has been formed and it awards silver, gold and platinum ratings to the Green buildings under the Leadership in Energy & Environment Design (LEED).
What has been Mfar’s approach in this context? Tell us about the initiatives undertaken by Mfar Constructions to minimise onsite accidents?
Mfar is a recipient of three international certifications namely ISO 9001:2000 for quality, ISO 14001:2004 for environment & OHSAS 18001:2007 for occupational health & safety.
And Mfar is the second construction company in India to receive all these three certificates. We put a great deal of emphasis on all aspects of environment protection, occupational health and safety of its workers. Our motto, ‘Safety First Quality Plus’, clearly shows our commitment to EOHS.
All our processes are documented under the quality manual, EOHS manual and various procedure manuals. These are strictly followed at all the project sites and by all departments. Implementation of the systems is verified through internal and external audits.
| Articles | |
 |
Site Map
 |
 |
 |
 |
|  |
COMMENT
Comment on this article