The Directorate of Factories of Bengal which functions under the state labour department conducted a workshop in Jalpaiguri on Friday on safety issues for bought-leaf factories (BLFs).

North Bengal has around 200 BLFs or standalone tea processing units. The BLFs buy tea leaves from small growers and process the produce. Representatives of around 50 BLFs were present at the workshop.

“We have underscored that non-trained workers should not be engaged at BLFs. The workers have to be trained in safety measures and can deliver their duties accordingly,” said Arup Goswami, the deputy director of the directorate.

He said maintenance works were carried out at the BLFs during the winter when tea was not produced.

“At the workshop, we have explained the use of different machines at the BLFs and the associated risk factors,” Goswami added.

Subir Patra, the joint director of factories, said safety belts and helmets should be made mandatory for labourers, especially those working in elevated places.

“In India, around 1,000 workers die every year by falling from elevations. This has to be stopped. Those running the factories should ensure that workers are imparted proper training to handle machines,” said Patra.