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Construction by its very nature is inherent with elevated risk and, at L&T, we view safety not as a mere compliance ritual but as a strategic imperative. We pursue Mission Zero Harm with unwavering resolve and intensity, safeguarding our workforce, our subcontractors, the surrounding communities, and the public at large who are the reason we exist. Our robust safety culture goes far beyond regulatory mandates, actively minimizing disruptions, optimizing costs, and ensuring operational excellence.
The Indian construction industry, as we are acutely aware, operates under some of the most stringent safety regulations in the world. Our embedded safety culture aims to slash downtime, curb cost overruns, and deliver projects on schedule without compromising quality or human well-being. In environments where even a momentary lapse can spiral into something serious, we leverage every tool at our disposal – be it process rigour, leadership accountability, workforce empowerment & training, and, crucially, cutting-edge technology – to keep men, material, and machinery safe.
Viewing safety through the lens of the Heavy Civil Infrastructure IC projects, Nigel Writz Cameron, Head – EHS, stresses that risk is particularly pronounced both in elevated and underground projects. Data confirms that falls from height account for nearly half of all construction fatalities worldwide. On the other hand, risks multiply when executing underground due to a variety of reasons: confined spaces, unstable soil, hazardous gases, water ingress, unmapped utility lines, and many more. “With our multi-layered and relentless risk management plan, we leave nothing to chance,” he assures.
Technology – a key enabler
As project complexity and delivery pressures intensify and we build at speed & scale, risks multiply. Consistently adhering to EHS norms is perhaps the toughest part of the safety equation due to several deterrents like frequent workforce churn, subcontractor alignment, and complexity of tasks. In such a scenario, technology becomes a critical enabler, augmenting human vigilance. A combination of wearable safety devices, drones, AI-driven robots & Computer Vision, BIM, VR modules for immersive training, safety management software, and mobile apps can strengthen our arm to flag issues in real time and prevent violations. It is heartening that these tech solutions have become the standard operating reality across our portfolio.
While at the MAHSR project, amidst robust safety arrangements, AIdriven Computer Vision detects PPE compliance, including helmets, jackets, shoes, and harnesses, and AIdriven robots are improving efficiency, technology is helping project teams negotiate Himalayan challenges at the Pakal Dul HEP and RVNL’s Rishikesh– Karnaprayag Rail Link projects. “Our cloud-based project management suite provides real-time visibility across tunnelling progress, schedules, and risks, enabling instantaneous risk management protocols,” shares Nigel, “and we are particularly proud of a 6.6 km breakthrough between Gular and Byasi in RVNL Package 2, during which 24 m was excavated in a day, with zero incidents, thanks to meticulous planning by the project team ably supported by their EHS colleagues.”
At the Chennai Metro Rail Phase II, cameras scout ahead to detect leaks, while real-time atmospheric instruments monitor and trigger auto-shutdowns, preventing human exposure in highrisk areas. Burrowing 22 m below ground just 25 m from the Arabian Sea at the Mumbai Metro Line 3, Package 1, required advanced dewatering and geotechnical instrumentation to tame high groundwater pressures. In the process, the project team successfully helped preserve several old heritage structures above.
Sustaining a strong EHS culture
L&T’s safety procedures involve mandatory training, methodical risk assessments, and rigorous protocols guided by an Integrated Management System (IMS) & a comprehensive Safety Doctrine, embedding accountability at every level. Safety apps, specialized training & drills, and safety committees are some efforts to sustain a strong, safety-conscious culture throughout the organization.
Our vision is bold but attainable, driven by the belief that safety is a top-down imperative. Our senior leadership truly walks the talk. While challenges, including ingrained mindsets, remain, we are confident that comprehensive training and awareness programmes tailored to our diverse workforce, supported by robust onboarding processes, will help us achieve our EHS objectives.
Every decision carries the weight of human life. Stay vigilant. Stay on top.
(Based on inputs received from Nigel Wirtz Cameron, Head – EHS, Heavy Civil Infrastructure IC)
