Safety and reliability, those are the key words that metal producer ArcelorMittal attaches particular importance to when it comes to the use of its lift installations. In addition to these aspects, we delved deeper into the necessity of lift management during a conversation with Lode Maes. In his role as technician for operational maintenance at ArcelorMittal at the production facility in Ghent, he knows better than anyone the importance of independent lift inspections carried out by Bureau Veritas.
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ArcelorMittal is the second largest steel producer in the world. The company was created from a merger between Arcelor and Mittal Steel in 2006 and comprises 37 steel mills in 16 countries. The company employs 127,000 workers, half of whom are active in Europe. ArcelorMittal is committed to the production of sustainable steel products for various applications through the processing of raw materials into high-quality steel. The facility in Ghent focuses on the production of flat-carbon steel.
On behalf of ArcelorMittal, Bureau Veritas has been conducting inspections on lift installations in Ghent for many years. These inspections form the basis for understanding the technical condition of these installations, which play a vital role in ArcelorMittal's business process. This insight is the starting point for establishing planned maintenance and the associated multi-year budget.
What role do lift installations play in ArcelorMittal's business process?
Lode Maes (LM): "We use lifts for the transport of people, and we also use some lifts for the transport of goods. For our entire facility in Ghent, we have a total of 30 lift installations that are managed by General Services. If they are not operationally available, this has a major impact on our business operations."
What requirements do you set for the availability of your lift installations?
LM: "We expect the lifts to achieve a high level of reliability and remain technically sound. We strive for a safe and operationally secure installation, which means we are obliged to carry out renovations and modifications."
Speaking of safety, what requirements do you apply when it comes to this subject?
LM: "Safety relates to every aspect of lift operation. This applies to various matters, such as bi-directional communication, the engagement of limit switches, light curtain, a functioning safety gear, locks, etc. The ability to evacuate people from a blocked lift is another important aspect. Furthermore, we must consider specific environmental risks that may affect the operation of our lift installations. Think of local gas zones, temperature or, for example, ambient noise from the production environment."
How much importance do see in the independently conducted inspections of your lift installations and the assessment of their technical condition?
LM: "The importance of this is beyond question. The inspections thoroughly map the quality of the maintenance and repairs carried out. In combination with the inspection reports, we can internally request budget to have modernization or renovation work carried out."
To what extent does Bureau Veritas' lift advice contribute to your insight regarding necessary maintenance and your multi-year budget?
LM: "We receive detailed reports that enable us to take targeted actions on necessary points. We also benefit from this in the long term. The use of the 'Digital Portal' tool that Bureau Veritas employs is very useful. It provides us with a practical overview; for each lift installation everything is immediately visible with the click of a button."
Finally, how do you view Bureau Veritas' service provision regarding lift management?
LM: "The technical knowledge is sound and highly reliable. From the outset, you notice that the inspector possesses a great deal of knowledge and experience. This knowledge translates into a clear report with justified observations."