Lafarge builds observation deck for safety and efficiency

Friday, 2 May 2014 02:46 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

With the intention of increasing safety and efficiency of loading and transport of cement bags and reiterating its commitment to customer service, Lafarge Mahaweli Cement continues to smoothen processes in the Colombo Port. The latest in this effort is the fixing of an observation platform at its packaging plant in the Port. This simple addition helps the drivers to observe the loading process. “Drivers usually want to scrutinise the bags being loaded as this will help in minimising the issues with the dealers when unloading at their stores,” says Malinda Rodrigo, the maintenance foreman at the plant.

Setting up of the observation platform also comes as a safety measure adopted by Lafarge to eliminate hazards confronting drivers. Some of these include injuries that could occur as a result of remaining in the loading bay where there is constant vehicle movement. Lafarge which has made health and safety their number one priority across the globe is taking these precautionary measures in Sri Lanka as an addition to its already existing activities. There is protective headgear in different colours, to differentiate between workers and visitors to the factory. Boots, suits and protective eyewear also have to be worn by both workers as well as visitors. The company has safety standards and advisories for working at heights, mobile equipment, confined spaces and conveyer belts, etc. Every morning employees engage in ‘Tool Box Talk,’ where safety issues at work are discussed, and decisions made on what safety measures and precautions should be implemented. Regular inspections are carried out in the plant and the offices to ensure that safety precautions are properly followed. External employees are also made aware of the safety measures at the site so that no one is put at risk. The company has made it mandatory for all Lafarge factories around the world to take the priority position in health and safety within the industry. The Lafarge factory in Sri Lanka located at the Colombo Port has maintained the same health and safety standards by not losing a single working hour due to an accident or injury in over two years.