Objective

OSRAM purchased the Sonepat plant in India in 1998, taking over a company focused on the local market, with corresponding environmental challenges. Employees were used to work between open oil and acid canisters, and the site was strewn with plastic bottles and cigarette butts. Measures were taken for the plant to be transformed into a modern and efficient production facility

Solution

A new management system was introduced soon after OSRAM acquired the plant. A holistic approach was adopted. The management system not only covered business performance but also defined quality, environmental standards and social commitment as its prime objectives. Employees were trained in each of these areas. Since employees started using this new system, productivity has increased enormously and the number of accidents has fallen drastically. Canisters of acid and oil are now safely stored away and employees are wearing safety shoes, instead of flip-flops.

This tremendous progress was recognized by an outside agency: the factories in Sonepat are the fourth in India and seventh in the world to be awarded the Best4 certificate by RINA, an independent certification authority. "Best4" stands for "Business Excellence Sustainability Task".

The positive influence of these measures exceeded factory boundaries. One indication for how well ecological and social sustainability concur: In the meantime a number of employees also pay fastidious attention to hygiene and cleanliness at home and for example admonish the neighbours and children not to throw their garbage on to the streets