Use of masks for protection

With the ongoing talk about spread of viruses, the discussions are taking place in all forms of social media, print, electronic, etc. It is advised by these media for use of masks. As per supply and demand, the rates of masks have skyrocketed. A simple rectangular filter paper like mask with elastic bands on either side and nose strip, which normally used to cost at about Rs 1.50-2.00 is sold at Rs 7 to 20. The cup type mask normally priced at about Rs 30-35 is being sold 2-6 times the price. This is nothing but exploitation. Being in the field of industrial safety, aware of costs of these protective gear, I felt that public are taken for a raid.

A field day for shops. Make hay while the sun shines.

I read in messages that these are to be used carefully, not to touch, and then dispose safely. How many will throw in dust bin after use, once or more times in a day after buying at prices like above. Further, safe disposal of these masks itself may present a headache to municipal authorities. May be now, these authorities have to set up bins in public places for collection of these masks and then incinerate at high temperature like biohazard waste.

At other times, many persons used to cover their nose / face with hand kerchief or some other cloth,   can also be used safely. I feel this is better than so called masks as above. Because, we can wash these cloth covers and are good for health.

In addition, it is better to follow other good hygiene practices, like washing of hands, face and feet soon after coming to house from outside, before and after eating, changing the outside dress before eating, etc as our elders did.

Whatever we use, let us also ensure to clean it regularly for our own health. We should not get panicked with messages / rumors and use our common sense to help ourselves.

Following regulations and guidelines will not reduce productivity

There is always a tussle between the production manager and that of safety / regulator. It may not appear openly, but in private discussions, this is the reality. Each will have choicest words or opinions about the other.

When role reversal happens, they will assume new position and behave accordingly. This is because of short term / immediate gains one may achieve by overlooking SOPs or due to the infrequent losses suffered from incidents/accidents by not following safety which they feel that it can be absorbed.

Production managers realize only when the losses are huge and may lead to framing of charges or closure of the factory. But, it will be late.

It is proven that following safety always makes sense and leads to increase in productivity.
And this can be made realized by charging penalties on every violation from the salary of the individuals and as a percentage of turnover  of the factory.

This will help in creating work atmosphere safe as well as for public also and at the same time will make others to learn from the sufferers.

Doctor's health

A news item today in Deccan Chronicle about doctors to take care of themselves in light of stressful conditions faced by them.

https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/200120/doctor-first-heal-thyself-ek-doctor-ki-maut-physicians-must.html

Suspected death from gas geyser use

https://in.news.yahoo.com/mumbai-girl-dies-gas-geyser-194157257.html