Improved Materials Handling Reaps Multiple Benefits for Al-Baha Chlorine Plant

This change has resulted in the sale of unwanted spare parts for a profit, as well as a reduction in the risk of chemical spills and the need for cleanups. The reorganization of the storage area was made possible with assistance from USAID's Water Reuse and Environmental Conservation Project. The new storage system uses a computer-based system to store and track inventory items, with only items intended for use being stored. This approach is expected to minimize future waste generation from the storage area. The storage area was reorganized according to the type of material, with items and their locations logged into the computer. This improved management of chemicals stored on site has reduced the risk of chemical spills and cleanups. The Al-Baha Company's material storage system improvements were part of a broader effort to reduce industrial pollution and conserve water and energy resources. The company is one of 30 industrial partners working with USAID to implement sustainable practices that benefit the bottom line. The Water Reuse and Environmental Conservation Project assessed various aspects of each facility's operations, including water and energy use, material and waste flow, production processes, and quality control. The project's assessments identified options for minimizing pollution and saving water, energy, and money. Costs and payback periods for various options were analyzed, providing a framework for facilities to prioritize and implement improvements. The Al-Baha Company's experience demonstrates the potential for cost-effective improvements in materials handling and storage, which can have a positive impact on both environmental sustainability and financial performance. The implementation of the new storage system at the Al-Baha Company's chlor-alkali plant has yielded a profit of 40,000 JOD, in addition to improved efficiency and housekeeping. The company's Deputy General Technical Manager, Eng. Ravinder Arora, notes that the assistance from USAID's Water Reuse and Environmental Conservation Project was instrumental in identifying the benefits of reorganizing the storage area. The project's support enabled the company to prioritize and implement improvements, resulting in a more efficient and sustainable operation.