Working together to address the issues
In 2004, SEA and a local consulting firm, SERV Consulting, worked with Molten’s management to curb critical problems with ventilation and chemical safety. Using our strategic monitoring approach to identifying root causes, the SEA team uncovered gaps in engineering control and worker awareness. SERV was subsequently invited to assess the company’s Human Resource Management system and complete the training needs assessment.
Our standards focus on restricting the use of harmful substances. As a result we banned the use of toluene, a key ingredient in glue used for patching ball panels. This presented Molten with the challenge of meeting the same quality standards but with less toxic chemicals.
In July 2004, Molten’s senior management committed to eliminating toluene and introduced other less harmful solvents. SEA monitoring findings showed consistent efforts to improve ventilation systems and the factory management engaged a local chemical safety consultant and committed to ISO 14001 certification. In 2005, we provided training to Molten management and supervisors and Molten’s safety team were trained in measuring against chemical thresholds. In September 2005, Molten had completely eliminated toluene from the production process at this site and was certified to ISO 14001.