Driving ‘Safety First’ with Treatment Partner
- By driving best practice with treatment partners, Arxada plays a pivotal role in fostering a culture of compliance and safety within the wood preservation industry.
- For 31 consecutive years, there have been no injuries or fatalities resulting in lost time, and Arxada draws on this experience to help drive best practice in the industry.
- The continued use of GHS Class 1A and 1B CMR Preservatives is dependent on illustrating compliance with relevant environmental, health and safety requirements.
The responsibility of the wood preservation industry to comply with safety standards was recently highlighted during discussions between the South African Wood Preservers Association (SAWPA) and the Registrar of the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD).
The continued use of GHS Class 1A and 1B CMR Preservatives is dependent on showing the Registrar that possible contact with the public is managed and compliant with relevant environmental, health and safety requirements (for example the National Environmental Management Act) at points of chemical manufacturing, as well as processing plants where the preservatives are stored and applied.
The South African Wood Protection division of Arxada, a global leader in wood treatment technologies, recognises the gravity of this responsibility which is not only viewed as a legal obligation but also a core value that drives every aspect of its operations.
Building On A Foundation Of Safety
In recognising that a well-designed and properly installed timber treatment plant only remains safe when operated correctly, Arxada provides treatment partners with the support needed to establish a foundation of safety. The message that there can be no complacency in adherence to safety protocols, is driven through free comprehensive training on general health and safety. Arxada also provides treatment partners with the tools to monitor the daily, monthly and annual maintenance requirements for plant components such as the vessel; door and gasket; timber trolley; pressure; vacuum and transfer pumps; and the valve and pipeline.
A Safety Culture Beyond Reproach
The adage “You are your brother’s keeper” resonates deeply within Arxada, emphasising that safety is a responsibility that each team member actively contributes to daily. This collective commitment has fostered a secure work environment and contributed significantly to the company marking, on the 22nd of December 2023, an impressive record of 31 years without any loss of time due to injuries or fatalities.
“This momentous safety record opens the door to positive relationships between Arxada and regulatory authorities, who place a high value on companies with a strong safety track record and environmental compliance. Furthermore, it is a testament to the resources invested in safety training programmes at both Arxada and at our treatment partners operations.
“We believe that well-trained staff are enabled and empowered to make good decisions and that good decisions are fundamental to a safe work environment,” said Kesun Govender, Director of Arxada South Africa.
Empowering Customers through Training
White River Sawmills, situated in the Mpumalanga province, own and operate two Pine Sawmills along with a dedicated CCA (Copper Chrome Arsenate) treatment operation. Last year, Arxada had the opportunity to spend some time with their plant operators, guiding them on effective quality treatment and the importance of maintaining a compliant treatment plant.
Daniel Barnard, from White River Sawmills, expressed appreciation for the assistance and confirmed that several recommendations to optimise efficiencies have been implemented.
“The time Absolom spent at our treatment plant has proven invaluable. With his guidance, we identified areas for improvement, and our operators have been trained to uphold the same high standards. It is reassuring to receive this level of support from the manufacturer of our wood treatment chemicals,” said Barnard.
Source: Arxada
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