Occupational health and safety
Employee exposure to cobalt was monitored at the units in Fagersta, Sweden, Guanzate, Italy, Sumperk, Czech Republic and Pune, India. In all cases, personal measurements and analyses were carried out to ensure attainment of Seco's strict requirements. Action has been taken when called for and the results show very low levels of exposure in relation to requirements.
International social commitments
Seco's advanced technology and resulting need for skilled personnel contributes to a good regional labour market. One such example comes from the USA, where Seco has been given both awards and grants by the state of Tennessee and Loudon County for its ongoing training of qualified machine operators. The company also undertakes targeted activities to better meet the needs of the employees in the social area. Seco's production unit in India is located outside the city centre of Pune, with its population of 4.5 million. To assist the employees and reduce traffic and the risk of injuries during travel, the company arranges bus transports to take the employees to and from work. As a further benefit, Seco has an extensive insurance programme for the employees and their family members
Sickness absence
An effort to reduce sickness absence was started in 2007 with the development of a more clearly defined sickness and rehabilitation process for Seco in Sweden. Preventative measures are being taken to reduce sickness absence, such as activities to encourage physical fitness and voluntary courses for shift workers in association with AFA, together with improved follow-up and statistics for all managers with personnel responsibility. Already in 2007, sickness absence in the Parent Company decreased by about 20 per cent.
An attendance rate of 98 per cent for executives and 95 per cent for staff employed under collective agreements has been set as a long-term target to be reached by 2010.