Holcim Ltd - Occupational health and safety (OH&S)

As the health and safety of our employees, subcontractors, third parties and visitors is paramount, a new initiative, Passion for Safety, was launched in 2005 in cooperation with DuPont.

The initiative aims to develop a safe working culture, by changing behaviors and attitudes, using the Holcim OH&S management system. It is based on strong company commitment, clear organizational accountabilities, and leadership to mobilize the workforce through training and communication. Tight performance management via key performance indicators and strict operational discipline will enable Holcim to move toward its goal of ‘zero harm’.

To that end, and to reinforce the message that company leaders must drive continuous improvement, we have set a new OH&S target. This new target implies that even good performers in the Group must further improve. Holcim makes no compromise regarding safety. Our people are the basis of our success and our most valuable asset – we must protect them. The experience of Holcim Indonesia in this case study demonstrates our approach.

Some Group companies have found that certifying their management system to OHSAS18,000 helps get the message to employees, although this is not mandatory. We have also found that using the Cement Sustainability Initiative as a learning platform helps us improve, as this case study describes.

Holcim is committed to implementing wider health management programs for employees - 82% of our Group companies have a health assistance program in place assisting workers, their families or community members regarding serious diseases.