16 September 2024
Nestled on Obi Island, PT Halmahera Jaya Feronikel (HJF), a business unit of Harita Nickel, is taking a bold step into the future of industrial safety with its new initiative. This isn’t just about profit margins or efficiency metrics. It’s about something deeper—a commitment to keeping its workers safe, its environment sustainable, and its operations accident-free.
On September 16, a group of employees proudly wore their new badges, marked with the title “HSE SMART Leader.” These are no ordinary badges. They symbolize a movement within HJF—a significant initiative within HJF focused on achieving zero workplace accidents. The declaration came with a formal ceremony, but the true challenge lies ahead: turning commitment into everyday practice.
“We're not just talking about policies or procedures here,” said Agung Aribowo, the Technical Support Deputy Department Head at HJF, standing before the gathering of freshly minted leaders. “SMART Leader means Safety is My Attention and Responsibility to Target Zero Accidents. These leaders are not just experts in their technical fields; they are also trained to anticipate and address potential hazards before they become problems,” he added.
It’s an ambitious goal linked to a larger company initiative called the HEBAT program (HJF’s Excellent Behavior for Achieving Target). This program aims to create a culture of safety at all levels and transform leaders into safety advocates—mentors who will promote awareness and vigilance among employees.
In the world of mineral processing industry, safety training is nothing new. Yet the approach at HJF feels different. There is a strong sense of urgency in the mission, especially as the world becomes more focused on sustainability. For HJF, safety and sustainability are two sides of the same coin.
This isn’t just theory. The HEBAT program is built on seven key pillars, including Life Saving Assessment (LISA) and Management Walkthrough, which ensure ongoing improvement in safety practices. This effort is supported by HJF's recent ISO 45001:2018 certification, a global standard for Occupational Health and Safety, earned in July. HJF had also previously received recognition from the Ministry of Manpower of Indonesia for its safety management system. While these certifications are an achievement, they are reviewed annually to keep safety standards growing alongside the company.
The initiative has earned praise from both Harita Nickel and its partner, Lygend Resources. Rico Windy Albert, the Head of Technical Support for the Harita Nickel and Lygend Resources joint venture, knows the stakes well. As HJF transitions into full production mode, the demands for safety only intensify.
“I’m incredibly proud of the HJF team for getting this off the ground,” Rico said, standing before a group of workers in fluorescent safety gear. “But the real test is what happens after the ceremony. Can we maintain this level of focus on safety and the environment as we scale up production? That’s where the challenge lies,” Rico added.
Rico’s words struck a chord, underscoring a critical truth: HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) isn’t just the responsibility of a single department. It’s a collective mission, one that requires buy-in from every level of the organization.
“The SMART Leader badge,” Rico continued, “it’s more than just a symbol. It’s a badge of ownership. You’re not just responsible for yourself—you’re an example to others.” His message was clear: each leader now bore the responsibility of instilling a culture of safety among their peers.
The room fell silent as his words sunk in, making the badge feel heavier with pride and responsibility.
Zhao Xiao, the Executive Deputy General Manager of HJF, echoed the same feeling. He praised the efforts of the HSE team but reminded everyone that safety isn’t confined to people alone. "Regular inspections are essential. We need to ensure that every tool and machine is in peak condition. Preventing accidents is our shared priority," he stated firmly, emphasizing the seriousness of the task ahead.
HJF demonstrated its commitment to the HEBAT program by launching Safety Leadership Training for 280 employees this past quarter. "We aim to train 325 leaders, from foremen to supervisors, as SMART K3LH Leaders," Rico explained. The goal is clear: reduce workplace accidents and boost team productivity. This initiative reflects HJF’s broader plan for a safer and more efficient workforce.
Rico Windy Albert’s closing remarks seemed to encapsulate the spirit of the endeavor: “We are committed to running operations that aren’t just efficient and productive, but also responsible—to our employees and the environment.”
As the employees left, badges gleaming on their shoulders, one thing was clear: this wasn’t just a safety program. It was a cultural shift, an attempt to redefine the connection between industry and responsibility in a world that increasingly values both. And perhaps, just perhaps, HJF could lead the way.
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