Nederlands
This is how VAC prevents accidents in the workplace
At Actief Werkt! the top priority is that the flex colleagues work safely. We work with many companies and we also think it is important that these companies handle safety properly. We are happy to give you a look behind the scenes. We now do that at Van Antwerpen Cartonnage, or in short: VAC, in Zwijndrecht .
VAC is a manufacturing company. They make cardboard products such as decor tubes or packaging tubes. You can think of those tubes in which posters are sent, you probably know them. We spoke to Kuno Lipperts, Plant manager is at Vac. He tells us that VAC is an organization that strives for the safety, health and well-being of its employees.
“I was clearly informed before my first day at work”
VAC works with many different machines that all work differently. Safety instructions are included with every machine. Although all machines are protected, there is always a small chance of an accident. Een small mistake can already cause an accident. In the worst case, limbs become trapped in a machine. The risks are clearly indicated on the machines. When you start working at VAC, you will receive an oral and written explanation about safety. Both the employees and the manager must both sign forms, so that the company is sure that the safety regulations are known.
"For your own safety"
We also speak with René. He talks about his work experience as a production employee at VAC. He admits to feeling safe in the workplace. This is because of the safety regulations and because everything you need for safety is there. For example, everyone on the work floor wears safety shoes, earplugs and safety glasses. “The working environment is safe, but if you don't pay attention yourself, an accident can happen. Fortunately, colleagues also speak to each other if they see that someone is not adhering to the safety regulations,” says René. “I myself have never seen anyone in the workplace without glasses, but if I see that I would report it immediately. Sometimes it is quite difficult to wear safety glasses if they get fogged up, for example, but it is for your own safety!”.
“Accident free for years”
VAC has started by calling everyone together once a quarter to once again draw attention to safety. This is done per department, because each department has its own dangers. Many companies have a sign with the latest accidents. For example, it says 'accident free for 150 days'. Maybe you've seen them? Vac does not use such a board. VAC chooses to focus on safety and not on accidents. “We have been accident-free for years and our staff knows that too,” said Kuno. In addition, they have a very active policy from within the organization. For example, there is a monthly global meeting. This covers all aspects of safety. Every organization that has experienced an industrial accident must report it. You hope to maintain a good reputation: a safe, accident-free company. Fortunately, VAC has been accident free for years and they hope to remain so.