Introduction 

The mandatory counting of personnel is a key aspect of emergency management within a factory setting. This procedure ensures that all individuals are accounted for during and after an emergency, thereby facilitating a more effective response and ensuring safety. This requirement is part of the broader On-site Emergency Plan as mandated by Section 41B (4) of the Factories Act, 1948. 

Objectives 

1. Ensure Safety: To confirm that all employees and other occupants are safe and accounted for. 
2. Facilitate Rescue Operations: To assist emergency services by providing accurate information about who is missing or potentially trapped. 
3. Reduce Panic: To provide a structured process that helps maintain order and reduces confusion during an emergency. 

Components of Personnel Counting 

1. Designated Assembly Points: 

• Location: Clearly marked assembly points should be located at a safe distance from the factory and potential hazards. 

• Signage: These points should be well-signposted and known to all employees. 

2. Counting Procedures: 

• Head Count: Conduct a head count of all personnel at the assembly points as soon as it is safe to do so. 

• Roll Call: Use a pre-prepared list of employees to verify who is present. 

• Verification: Cross-check the list with the actual number of personnel present to identify if anyone is missing. 

3. Roles and Responsibilities: 

• Emergency Coordinators: Designate specific individuals responsible for conducting the head count and managing the assembly points. 

• First Aiders: Ensure that first aiders are readily available at assembly points to assist with injured or distressed individuals. 

4. Training and Drills: 

• Regular Drills: Conduct regular emergency drills to familiarize employees with the counting procedure and assembly points. 

• Training Programs: Provide training for employees on the importance of the head count and their roles during an emergency. 

5. Documentation and Records: 

• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of all drills and actual emergencies, including the number of personnel accounted for and any discrepancies. 

• Updates: Regularly update the list of employees and ensure that it reflects current staffing levels. 

6. Communication: 

• Internal Communication: Ensure effective communication channels are in place to inform all personnel of the emergency and assembly point procedures. 

• External Communication: Inform emergency services of the status of personnel and any issues encountered during the counting process. 

Implementation and Review 

1. Plan Development: Develop and integrate the counting procedures into the overall On-site Emergency Plan with the approval of the Chief Inspector of Factories. 
2. Testing: Regularly test the effectiveness of the personnel counting procedures through drills and simulations. 
3. Feedback: Gather feedback from employees and emergency responders to improve the procedures. 
4. Continuous Improvement: Revise and update the plan based on lessons learned from drills and actual emergencies. 

Conclusion 

The mandatory counting of personnel is an essential element of an On-site Emergency Plan, aimed at ensuring the safety and effective management of individuals during an emergency. By establishing clear procedures, assigning responsibilities, and conducting regular training and drills, factories can enhance their preparedness and response capabilities. 

To support compliance with these requirements, CIPL offers specialized solutions designed to streamline and enhance emergency management. Our Integrated Head Count Solution ensures accurate and efficient tracking of personnel during emergencies, while our Emergency Team Response Solution provides comprehensive support for managing and coordinating emergency responses. These solutions are tailored to help factories meet regulatory requirements and improve overall safety outcomes. 

For more information on how CIPL’s solutions can assist with your factory’s emergency planning and compliance, please reach out to us here.