'Safety breeds confidence and progress': FSII's focus on culture in seed industry

NEW DELHI: The Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII) on Sunday reaffirmed its dedication to the highest safety standards for workers and operators engaged in seed treatments, production, and distribution on the International Day of Safety & Health at Work.

The executive director of FSII, Raghavan Sampathkumar, assured policymakers and other stakeholders of the organisation's compliance with world-class safety protocols, adding that the seed industry, besides committed to a culture of safety, is also constantly investing in R&D for creating a safe environment for everyone.

Sampathkumar said, “Seed production - and its enormity is either not understood or appreciated. The science of seeds is intricate, its management challenging, and therefore those who work on it require best safety protocols. At FSII, we commit to a culture of safety that ensures the well-being of all actors involved in seed production, storage and distribution pipeline.”

He said that the road and farm safety for workers were other critical safety aspects for the industry.

Seed treatments, known for their sustainable approach to crop protection, have become popular for their capability to reduce environmental impact. But this procedure requires strict compliance with safety regulations because the operators involved in seed treatment application are subject to potential dermal and respiratory exposure to chemical or biological products and dust.

To reduce these risks, it is essential to adhere to Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) protection standards. With the advancement of technology, the seed industry is investigating innovative methods to simplify the procedures and enhance operator safety.

The executive director said, “Advancements such as automated application systems and remote monitoring capabilities not only improve efficiency but also reduce direct operator contact with treatment products, further mitigating potential risks.”

The industry is adopting a proactive stance towards safety and utilizing technological progress. Effective utilization of seed treatment products necessitates thorough training to ensure operators remain updated on evolving safety practices. By prioritizing safety and health measures, operators not only safeguard themselves and their colleagues but also uphold the integrity of the seed industry and their respective companies, he added.

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