Galvanizing industry recognises changing expectations

Citation

(1999), "Galvanizing industry recognises changing expectations", Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Vol. 46 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/acmm.1999.12846faa.001

Galvanizing industry recognises changing expectations

Galvanizing industry recognises changing expectations

Keywords: Galvanizing, Environmental impact

GalvAction 21 is a significant industry initiative that has recently been brought to Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials's attention. Introduced by the Galvanizers Association its aim is to serve as a focus for interest in hot dip galvanizing. Galvanizing is one of the oldest established industrial processes in the world and it is believed to be unsurpassed after 150 years.

The GA explained that the campaign has two distinct aims. First, it sets out to ensure that the industry has the knowledge and guidance to operate to the highest health, safety and environmental standards, building on the significant process improvements achieved over recent years.

Second, to provide a vehicle to ensure wider appreciation of the benefits of this process, which has prevailed against an army of new technologies, remaining one of the most cost-effective and environmentally sustainable means of protecting iron and steel structures.

GalvAction 21 is an ongoing programme developed to see the industry secure a higher profile opposite user industries, architects, specifiers and regulatory authorities in the new millennium.

We understand that the first practical applications of the initiative include:

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  Information and guidance on environmental management systems for hot dip galvanizing.

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  Publication of a practical guide to efficient plant operation and training programme - safer hot dip galvanizing - which includes a video training package jointly produced by ROSPA and GA.

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  The publication of an information dossier that includes details on such topics as recyclability, zinc in health and the environment, facts and benefits.

GA's director, Murray Cook, told us that: "The industry has been successful for many years but that does not mean we can sit back without consideration of the future. GalvAction 21 is both innovative and forward thinking and recognises the changing expectations of stakeholders in industry, particularly in respect of social responsibility and the environment."

"By taking a proactive approach we can aim to demonstrate our commitment to responsible behaviour in terms of both worker safety and the wider environment.

"The hot dip galvanizing process plays a vital role in the construction and manufacturing industries and we firmly believe that we should ensure the facts and benefits are fully recognised."

Low maintenance hot dip galvanizing is a versatile process that protects a diversity of items from the elements. This journal would urge those of its readers engaged in the use of this process, either as applicators or users, to support the GA's initiative. A commitment to environmental awareness will ensure the continued and expanded use of this process.

Further details are available from the Galvanizers Association. Tel: +44 (0) 121 355 8838; Fax: +44 (0) 121 355 8727.