The Foundation of Manufacturing Quality and Sustainable Performance
At Fabco Thermal Insulation Factory, a key entity within the Salem Balhamer Holding Group, occupational health and safety standards are not merely regulatory requirements but a deeply rooted culture embedded in every production process—from design to final product. These products meet top global standards such as SASO and ASTM C578:2014. By applying the best safety practices in the thermal insulation and polystyrene manufacturing industry, the factory strives to protect its human resources and maintain a safe and stable work environment.
Working Environment in the Polystyrene Industry: Challenges and Responsibilities
The production of thermal insulation products using Expanded (EPS) and Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) involves specific challenges, particularly in handling thermally reactive chemicals. Whether manufacturing insulation panels for roofs and walls, or products for white and blue blocks, or even decorative and hollow-core slabs, the working environment requires strict risk control systems.
Key challenges include:
- Exposure to high temperatures during extrusion and molding lines
- Use of flammable or volatile gases during certain production phases
- Emission of smoke during processing
- Generation of fine particles (e.g., polystyrene dust) that may affect respiratory health without proper ventilation
- Lifting and transporting large and heavy panels, which could result in physical injuries
Addressing these challenges demands a comprehensive strategy covering all aspects of industrial safety and prevention.
Fabco’s Approach to Safety Management
Fabco Polystyrene adopts an integrated model based on international occupational health and safety management standards like ISO 45001, which aims to prevent workplace injuries and diseases while promoting employee well-being.
1. Regular Risk Assessment
Before launching any production line or adopting new technology, a dedicated Environment, Health & Safety (EHS) team conducts detailed risk assessments. Risks are classified by severity, and suitable preventive or engineering measures are implemented, such as ventilation systems, automatic shutdown mechanisms, or protective barriers.
2. Ongoing Training
Fabco ensures that all employees across production, supervision, and management undergo periodic training programs covering:
- Safe handling of raw materials and machinery
- First aid and evacuation procedures
- Use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Safe lifting practices
- Fire safety protocols
3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Fabco provides PPE tailored to the specific conditions of its production environment, including:
- Masks resistant to dust and volatile substances
- Gloves designed for machinery and chemical handling
- Eye and ear protectors
- Slip-resistant safety shoes
- Heat- and spark-resistant jackets
4. Emergency Systems and Response
The factory is equipped with fire suppression and alarm systems that comply with regulations. Additional safety measures include:
- Clearly displayed emergency evacuation plans
- UL-certified emergency exits as per code
- Designated, accessible assembly points
- Advanced industrial ventilation systems in molding and forming areas
- Anti-slip flooring and clear bilingual signage (Arabic and English)
5. Waste Management in Production Processes
Fabco Thermal Insulation Factory complies with ISO 14001 environmental management standards and internal regulations to ensure responsible waste handling, aiming to maintain a hazard-free work environment. This includes:
- Hazardous and non-hazardous waste containers
- Recycling of waste materials back into production
- Spill containment platforms for oils
- Dedicated oil collection tanks
- Periodic waste disposal by specialized contractors
- Ongoing compliance monitoring and hazard reporting
The Link Between Safety and Product Quality
Strict adherence to safety protocols does not only reduce accidents but also enhances the efficiency of production lines and minimizes waste and downtime, directly impacting product quality.
For example, safety systems in polystyrene thermal insulation factories help maintain:
- Consistent extrusion temperatures
- Accurate dimensions of produced panels
- Clean raw materials free from contaminants or dust
As a result, Fabco’s insulation products—whether EPS or XPS—are durable, stable, and highly effective in energy conservation for buildings.
Social Responsibility Through Safety
Fabco’s safety commitment extends to the broader community and environment. The factory ensures:
- Compliance with environmental emission limits
- Recycling of cutting and manufacturing waste
- Avoidance of ozone-depleting or soil/water-polluting materials
- Supplier and distributor awareness on safe storage and transportation
Safety as a Core Workplace Culture
What sets Fabco Polystyrene apart is that safety is not just a “management responsibility” but a daily habit among all employees. Awareness activities include:
- Participation in “World Safety Day” every April 28
- Safety competitions to encourage compliance
- Recognition and rewards for employees demonstrating best safety practices
Toward a Safer and More Sustainable Production Environment
Fabco Thermal Insulation Factory doesn’t merely deliver high-quality products to Saudi, Gulf, and global markets; it stands as a model in applying occupational health and safety systems in the plastic and thermal insulation industries. Through continuous development, training, and improvement, the factory achieves a unique balance between high productivity and a safe workplace.