New Delhi, April 28 2024: Seeds are the drivers of us all, providing us with food nutrition and vitality. They sustain the world. Isn’t it critical that those who are its architects - the workers and operators working on seed production plants - be given finest care? And what better day to acknowledge and applaud their contribution than on the World Day for Safety & Health at Work.

The apex seed industry body, Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII), has reaffirmed its commitment to highest standards of safety for workers and operators who work on seed treatments, production and distribution. Assuring policy makers and other stakeholders of its adherence to world-class safety protocols Raghavan Sampathkumar, ED of FSII, said the seed industry, besides committed to a culture of safety, is also constantly investing in R&D for creating a safe environment for everyone. He also asserted that road and farm safety for workers were other critical safety aspects for the industry.

“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,” said Sampathkumar.

Seed treatments, known for their sustainable approach to crop protection, have gained prominence for their ability to minimize environmental impact. By precisely controlling the application of active ingredients, seed treatments reduce the quantity of chemicals used, contributing to environmental sustainability. However, this process demands strict adherence to safety standards.

Operators involved in seed treatment application are subject to potential dermal and respiratory exposure to chemical or biological products and dust. To mitigate these risks, adherence to Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) protection standards is crucial.

As technology continues to evolve, the seed industry is exploring novel approaches to streamline seed treatment application processes and enhance operator safety. “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,” added Sampathkumar.

Sampathkumar said the industry is embracing a proactive approach to safety and leveraging technological advancements.

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.