Security, Fire and Safety Office

People

The Security, Fire & Safety Office is the central authority responsible for ensuring the protection of personnel, assets, infrastructure, and the overall safety environment of ARCI. The primary objective of this office is to maintain a secure, hazard-free, and compliant workplace through effective implementation of security systems, fire prevention measures, and Health Safety & Environment (HSE). The core function of this office begins with risk identification and preventive planning, which includes assessment of security vulnerabilities, fire hazards, and workplace safety risks across all centres. This is followed by continuous monitoring and implementation of appropriate control measures to mitigate risks and ensure safe operations.

The major activities revolving around this objective include:

(i) deployment and supervision of security personnel for round-the-clock surveillance and access control,
(ii) monitoring of CCTV systems and management of visitor and material movement,
(iii) maintenance and periodic inspection of fire-fighting systems such as portable extinguishers, hydrants, alarms, and sprinklers,
(iv) conducting fire drills, mock exercises, and evacuation procedures, and
(v) ensuring adherence to safety protocols, including the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
The office is also responsible for emergency preparedness and response, which includes handling situations such as fire incidents, medical emergencies, chemical spills, and other unforeseen events. This involves coordination with internal teams as well as external agencies like fire services, hospitals, and law enforcement authorities to ensure timely and effective response. In terms of safety management, the office conducts regular safety audits, inspections, and risk assessments to identify unsafe conditions and practices. It ensures safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials and promotes safety awareness among employees, students through training programs and campaigns.

Regulatory compliance forms a critical part of its responsibilities. The office ensures compliance with all applicable statutory requirements related to fire safety, Lab safety, and environmental regulations. It maintains necessary records, licenses, and documentation and coordinates with regulatory authorities during inspections and audits. The office also plays a key role in incident management, including reporting, investigation of accidents and near-misses, and implementation of corrective and preventive measures to avoid recurrence.

Further, the Security, Fire & Safety Office is responsible for organizing training and awareness programs, including induction training for new employees, students and contractors, refresher courses, and dissemination of safety guidelines and emergency procedures across the organization. All activities are supported through systematic documentation, reporting, and coordination with various departments. The office provides critical inputs to management for policy decisions and continuous improvement in safety and security standards.

The functions carried out by the Security, Fire & Safety Office are vital for ensuring a safe, secure, and compliant working environment at ARCI and significantly contribute to the uninterrupted functioning of the Centre