Foundry in Sept-Fons passes from father to son generation by generation
In the heart of Dompierre-sur-Besbre, Allier, the Stellantis Sept-Fons factory has undergone significant changes over the years, particularly in terms of safety. Despite health issues, the workers, including Antonio and Joaquim Lelo, speak proudly of their trade's challenges.
Antonio, François Penela's father, and Joaquim Lelo, François' step-uncle, have spent nearly three decades working at the same factory. Antonio, who retired early due to chronic knee pain, and Joaquim, who switched workshops due to lung dust issues, are familiar with every nook and cranny of the factory.
The factory houses a unique piece of equipment, the cubilot, a vertical furnace. The environment around the cubilot is extremely hot and noisy. Despite these conditions, workers like Antonio and Joaquim Lelo, who still work there, don helmets and flame-retardant vests to carry out their duties.
Over the years, the focus on worker protection, equipment upgrades, and work environment enhancements has been the cornerstone of the factory's safety program.
Enhanced Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has been a key aspect, with significant upgrades in the quality and availability of helmets, gloves, safety glasses, and hearing protection. Ergonomics improvements, such as the introduction of ergonomically designed workstations and lifting aids, have also been implemented to reduce musculoskeletal injuries. Continuous safety training programs have been a staple, aiming to raise worker awareness about hazards and proper safety procedures.
The factory has also made strides in automation and robotics, integrating robotic systems and automated machines to handle hazardous or repetitive tasks. Machine safeguarding, including advanced guarding systems, emergency stop mechanisms, and sensors, has been installed to prevent accidents. Strengthened preventive maintenance schedules ensure equipment operates safely and reliably, reducing breakdowns and associated hazards.
Environmental controls, such as improved ventilation systems and dust extraction units, have been implemented to maintain air quality and reduce exposure to harmful substances. Noise reduction measures, like the use of noise dampening materials and quieter machinery, have been adopted to comply with occupational noise standards. Better lighting and optimized factory floor layouts have been developed to minimize accidents and improve visibility.
In case of incidents, updated emergency evacuation routes, signage, and drills ensure worker safety. The factory is now equipped with the latest safety measures, aligning with regulatory changes, Stellantis’ global safety standards, and technological advancements, aiming to create a safer workplace for employees.
However, it's worth noting that during his time at the factory, Antonio did not use earplugs, which are now universally used, and he is now "deaf." François, who has worked at the factory since 1995 and currently holds the position of unit manager and refractory technician, has undergone operations on his shoulder and has a herniated disc, conditions likely related to his work at the factory.
These cases underscore the ongoing need for continuous safety improvements and the importance of adhering to safety protocols in the manufacturing industry. Despite the challenges, the workers at Stellantis' Sept-Fons factory continue to uphold their tradition of hard work and resilience, now in a safer environment.
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