The Factories Act doesn't explicitly detail specific fire crew qualification

 The Factories Act doesn't explicitly detail specific fire crew qualification

The Factories Act doesn't explicitly detail specific fire crew qualifications. However, it mandates certain measures for fire safety in factories, including adequate equipment, familiarization with escape routes, and trained personnel. Factories dealing with hazardous chemicals must have emergency response teams, and the State Government can make rules for fire safety measures. 

Here's a breakdown of relevant aspects:

1. General Fire Safety Requirements:

Adequate Equipment:

Factories must have the necessary equipment and facilities to extinguish fires. 

Familiarization with Escape Routes:

All workers must be familiar with the factory's fire escape routes and trained on the procedures to be followed during a fire. 

Emergency Response Teams:

Factories, especially those dealing with hazardous materials, are required to have fire and medical emergency response teams. 

State Government Rules:

The State Government can create specific rules for fire safety in different types of factories. 

Chief Inspector's Authority:

The Chief Inspector can order additional fire safety measures if existing ones are deemed inadequate. 

2. Training and Qualifications:

While the Act doesn't specify qualifications for fire crew members, it does emphasize the need for training. 

Hazardous Processes: Factories with hazardous processes must ensure supervisors are trained on Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) specific to their processes. 

Training Institutes: DGFASLI (Directorate General of Factory Advice Service and Labour Institutes) and other institutes offer training courses for supervisors in hazardous process factories, covering safety and health aspects. 

3. Example from a Specific Factory Specification:

One example outlines the requirements for hiring firemen, including a minimum educational qualification (10th class pass), a basic fire fighting course from a recognized institute, and physical fitness standards.

Specific requirements for fire engine drivers include a heavy vehicle driving license and experience. 

In essence, while the Factories Act doesn't prescribe specific qualifications, it mandates that factories have adequate fire safety measures and that personnel are trained in fire prevention and response. Factories dealing with hazardous materials must have dedicated emergency response teams.