Aluminium Bahrain (Alba), ranked as one of the largest aluminium smelters in the world, has installed new ergonomically designed seating arrangements in cranes at its Carbon Department.

The new Ergo Seats in Kiln 3 FTA-1 cranes will be utilised by crane operators while loading green anodes, discharging baked anodes, filling packing coke, etc.

The Alba Labour Union in its capacity as a liaison between workers and managements played a key role in presenting these complaints before concerned officials and in devising solutions that would promote general safety and increase employee productivity.

Kiln crane operator at Alba’s Carbon Department, Khalil Ebrahim Khalil said: “The new seating arrangements at the Kiln 3 FTA-1 cranes have brought increased comfort in our day to day operations, and thereby enabled us to be more efficient in the way we accomplish our tasks.”

Alba Labour Union chairman Ali bin Ali said: “We are proud of our role as a link between workers and management since it gives us the opportunity to actively promote the interests of our workers.   We appreciate the support and cooperation given by Alba management in bringing about a solution that has benefited our colleagues in the Carbon Department.”

Alba’s chief medical officer Dr Elham Al Eid said: “The ergonomically designed seats are not only comfortable but provide health benefits as well. Kiln crane operators are less likely to suffer from physical discomfort since the seats have been specially equipped to meet these concerns. We believe this initiative is another step towards developing a healthy work environment for all of our employees.”

“For the past 40 years, Alba’s success as one of the world’s leading aluminium smelter has been primarily due to the hard work and loyalty of our employees,” said Alba’s chief executive Laurent Schmitt.

“We always remain committed in strengthening initiatives that enhance employee welfare, safety and morale.  We appreciate the contribution made by the Alba Labour Union in highlighting concerns raised by the employees and being part of the committee that helped install the new ergonomically designed seating arrangements for the crane operators.”

The new Ergo Seats include height adjustment up to 200 mm as well as air and mechanical suspension, arm support and body fixation for greater ease and flexibility. Cameras have also been installed on the suction pipe to eliminate back pending and improve overall safety observation. – TradeArabia News Service