The water firm attained triple international standard accreditations on Quality Management (ISO 9001:2000) and Environmental Management (ISO 14001:2004) in January 2007, and on Occupational Safety and Health Management (OHSAS 18001:2007) last March 2009 for the Dagat-Dagatan treatment facility.
The IMS certification affirms that the quality, environmental, safety and health management protocols and procedures implemented in the said Maynilad facility meet international standards. This, along with the ISO 9001:2000 (Quality Management) conferred to the La Mesa Treatment Plants 1 and 2 also in January 2007, demonstrates Maynilad’s commitment to the highest standards in water purification and sewerage treatment processes.
Maynilad was conferred the OHSAS 18001:2007 certification after a series of plant inspections conducted by third-party auditor TUV SUD PSB Philippines Inc. The audit was carried out between January and March 2009.
According to Maynilad lead internal auditor Anita Calderero, the thorough auditing process verified that the Dagat-dagatan facility passed all areas and requirements of IMS.
“The auditors noted positive aspects of the management systems such as the proof of continual improvement in awareness and support of employees on IMS implementation, commitment of top management to improve health and safety in the workplace, and the high occupational health statistics. Also noted was Maynilad’s proactive response to relevant legal and regulatory requirements and reactions,” she said.
While the Quality and Environmental Management certifications assure first-rate sewerage service to households served by the Dagat-dagatan facility, the OHSAS 18001:2007 on Occupational Safety & Health Management, on the other hand, emphasizes the high premium that Maynilad places on its employees.
OHSAS stresses the importance of having effective safety and health measures and procedures to address the wellbeing of Maynilad personnel, contractors, plant visitors, and the facility’s neighbouring communities. Implementation of these safety and health guidelines is especially important in running a sewerage treatment plant, considering the relatively high environmental, safety and health risks involved.
“Being affirmed by an independent auditing body is a confirmation of our dedication to provide the best service to our consumers. The IMS certification for the Dagat-dagatan plant is something we can be proud of, considering the Herculean task of orchestrating, implementing and sustaining the programs and procedures necessary to comply to all three management system standards,” Maynilad SAVP for Environmental Management and Development Francisco Arellano stressed.
Maynilad is also eyeing IMS accreditation for its La Mesa Treatment Plants 1 and 2 and Tondo Sewage Pumping Plant after the preparation program for the external audit was kicked off this March.