Eco measures implemented, a new committee formed - all in pursuit of achieving certification

Takasago's Singapore plant is striving to achieve certification for ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 which supplement ISO 9001 and HACCP by the end of August 2010.

ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 officially recognize, and reinforce, a company's efforts and achievements in maximizing safety for workers and visitors on site and in minimizing impact on the environment (the soil, water, atmosphere, people, and flora and fauna).

To ensure that certification is fully achieved by the target date, an outside consultant has been engaged to advise each location, and definite progress has been made. Assessments of impacts and risks at all levels have already been completed, and an EHS committee has been established. Both sites in Singapore have implemented numerous measures to enhance safety and environmental protection. Efforts to meet the required standards are being backed up by the existing safety committee and its associated activities, along with the 5 S's.

Green Committee spearheads company-wide eco efforts

The Takasago Singapore Green Committee launched two years ago is vested with the task of supporting the campaign for ISO certification. The committee has taken many essential steps in the areas of recycling, environmental conservation, and raising awareness to ensure all the criteria for certification are met.

The committee also spearheads the Switch Off Campaign, which calls on people to switch off the lights when they leave the room. Stickers have been put up in conspicuous locations and e-mail reminders are sent out regularly, all in an effort to raise awareness among employees and alter their behavior. This campaign is designed not only to foster eco-friendly operations but also the habit of saving energy.

Advantage has been taken of several worldwide eco events to raise employee awareness and contribute directly to conserving the environment. Earth Hour, in March 2010, was brought to the notice of employees by poster and e-mail, and they were urged in so far as possible to avoid using electricity at the designated hour - to turn off their TVs and computers and spend the time with their families. This was a chance for them to start thinking eco in their private lives as well.

On Earth Day employees were encouraged to avoid the elevator and take the stairs, while a contest was held for production staff on the tricks to eco-friendly living. World Environment Day, on June 5, was also advertised by poster and e-mail. The Singapore Takasago team will keep up its environmental conservation efforts on all fronts.

The 5 S's - raising the awareness of each and every employee

The 5S Committee continues to support implementation of environmental and safety systems. By raising employee awareness, it facilitates recycling efforts and creates a safer workplace environment for workers and visitors. On 5S Day, which took place in October, the winners of the Logo Design Award and the Best Project Award were honored, further boosting awareness among staff. The 5 S's, an indispensable part of the company's philosophy and culture, will be maintained in 2010 and beyond.