The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) Health and Safety Committee from the Sewerage Services Department (SSD) recently visited the Century Bottling Company (Coca-Cola) in Namanve-Mukono. The aim was to benchmark and gain invaluable insights into the best health and safety practices implemented by a leading global corporation.
The visit began with a warm reception from the Century Bottling team, followed by a comprehensive induction exercise as the NWSC SSD Health and Safety team was introduced to the meticulous safety protocols that govern operations at the bottling plant, emphasizing the importance of strict safety measures in a high-stakes manufacturing environment.
Ms. Rhona Naluzze, the Environmental, Health, and Safety Coordinator at the plant, led a series of enlightening presentations starting with an overview of the Safety and Health Quality Management System, illustrating how Century Bottling integrates health and safety into its operational framework. Ms. Naluzze vividly highlighted the company’s commitment to maintaining a safe working environment, crucial for both employee well-being and operational efficiency.
Following the presentation on the Quality Management System, Ms. Naluzze detailed the plant’s Health and Safety Policy. She highlighted the core principles that guide the company’s approach, including continuous improvement, employee engagement, and compliance with both local and international standards. The NWSC team was particularly impressed by Century Bottling’s proactive approach, which involves regular training sessions, risk assessments, and a robust incident reporting system.
The highlight of the visit was a guided tour of the bottling plant as the NWSC team was led through various production units, observing the practical application of the discussed safety protocols. Detailed explanations were provided at each station regarding specific safety parameters, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and the implementation of emergency response procedures.
A key focus during the tour was machinery safety. The NWSC team observed how the plant employs advanced technology to ensure safe and efficient machinery operations, including regular maintenance checks, real-time monitoring systems, and fail-safe mechanisms designed to prevent accidents.
Ergonomic practices were another critical aspect of the tour. The NWSC team noted measures taken to minimize physical strain on employees, such as adjustable workstations and scheduled breaks. These practices not only enhance worker comfort but also reduce the risk of work-related injuries, contributing to overall productivity.
Waste management and environmental safety were also highlighted during the tour, and the factory’s commitment to sustainability was evident in their rigorous waste segregation processes, recycling initiatives, and efforts to minimize their environmental footprint. The NWSC team recognized the importance of integrating environmental safety into their health and safety framework, understanding that a holistic approach is essential for long-term success.
The visit concluded with a debriefing session where the NWSC team expressed their appreciation for the comprehensive insights provided by the Century Bottling Co. staff. They acknowledged the value of witnessing theory put into practice and gained a deeper understanding of how a global leader in manufacturing maintains its high standards of health and safety.
