Bhawanipatna, Jan 7: Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer, has reaffirmed its Zero Harm commitment by conducting a comprehensive emergency mock drill at its Lanjigarh refinery. The exercise was designed to strengthen preparedness for high-risk operational scenarios and validate the effectiveness of its Emergency Response Plan, officials said on Wednesday

The simulated drill at the Red Mud Pond site recreated a situation where an excavator operator was trapped following a sudden mud collapse during routine operations. Within minutes, operations were halted, the site secured, and energy sources controlled to prevent escalation. Combat, rescue, and auxiliary teams were mobilized within 4–6 minutes, ensuring the operator was safely rescued using specialized equipment and personal protective gear.

The drill tested critical aspects such as response timelines, communication flow, and cross-functional coordination. All objectives were achieved, with observations and improvement points documented to enhance future readiness.

Pranab Kumar Bhattacharyya, CEO of Vedanta Alumina Business, emphasized the importance of continuous safety preparedness: “Regular mock drills help our teams respond with speed, clarity, and confidence during critical situations. By consistently testing our systems on the ground, we ensure that our people, operations, and neighbouring communities remain safe and protected.”

Senior plant leadership and community representatives witnessed the exercise, reflecting Vedanta’s transparent and proactive approach to workplace safety.

Vedanta Aluminium continues to prioritize world-class safety practices across its operations. In addition to regular drills conducted with the Odisha Directorate of Factories & Boilers, NDRF, and OSDMA, the company has introduced several initiatives. These include simulator-based driving training, the Suraksha Sankalp programme to drive behavioural change through pledges and interactive activities, and smart AAINA safety models that encourage employees to self-assess and correct unsafe behaviours before entering high-risk zones.

Through these sustained efforts, Vedanta Lanjigarh reinforces its Zero Harm philosophy, ensuring operational excellence while safeguarding employees, communities, and the environment.