Small Scale Industrial (SSI) units operate from a variety of premises ranging from single storey independent units to small portions of industrial ‘galas’ in multi-storied buildings in crowded areas. Fire risk in ‘galas’ is generally high due to congestion and divided responsibility for fire protection. Fires in SSI units begin in ways no different from those in other industrial occupancies and can be prevented by simple precautions.

COMMON CAUSES

• Careless smoking
• Bad house keeping
• Welding/cutting without fire precautions
• Improper storage of flammable liquids and gases
• Electrical faults (Loose connection, overload, short circuit)
• Unattended / misuse of heating equipment
• Static electricity
• Oil/chemical leakage or spillage
• Self-ignition of oily wastes

LEGISLATION/REGULATIONS/CODES

• Development Control Regulations of Local Authorities
• Factories Act 1948 and the Factories Rules
• Local Regulations (e.g. Delhi Fire Prevention & Fire Safety Act)
• Indian Electricity Rules, 1956
• Gas Cylinders Rules, 1981
• Shops & Establishments Acts & Rules of the State Govts.
• National Building Code of India, 1983- Amended, 1997-Part IV: Fire Protection