Authorities have temporarily shut down a tannery in Ranipet a day after a worker died while cleaning a sewage tank. Two others a co-worker and the tannery owner also collapsed while trying to rescue him and were rushed to a hospital for treatment.

Officials from the industrial safety department carried out an inspection at KA Raheed and Sons following the tragic incident and found serious lapses in safety procedures.

According to reports from The New Indian Express, officials confirmed that the factory failed to maintain the sewage tank safely and that workers were sent in without protective equipment, violating industrial safety norms.

The victim, Raman, 47, reportedly inhaled poisonous gas while cleaning the tank on Wednesday. Two others Kumar, 38, a co-worker and R. Ahamed, the factory owner collapsed after attempting to rescue him. Both were rushed to CMC Hospital in Vellore. Officials said Kumar is stable, while Ahamed remains in critical condition.

An officer from the Ranipet industrial safety department said the death occurred due to exposure to hydrogen sulphide released from the sludge in the sewage tank.

“A show cause notice has been issued against R. Ahamed, the factory owner. After considering his health condition, the future course of action will be taken”

– Official, Industrial Safety Department, Ranipet

Following the inspection, authorities have decided to halt factory operations until all maintenance and safety issues are resolved.

The incident has sparked concerns over workplace safety practices in local leather units. Officials stated that further action will depend on the investigation findings and compliance from the factory management.