The Department of Science and Technology region 10 has recently conducted training on equipment maintenance and calibration at Farmind Asia Banana Corporation (FABC), La Roxas, Maramag, Bukidnon.
On February 7-8, 17 plant calibration officers and supervisors from the firm actively participated in the training on Calibration of Electronic Balances, Thermometers, and Volumetric Wares. This group of technical manpower directly handles the companyโs machineriesโ maintenance and calibration in the production facility.
The training was facilitated by DOST-10โs Regional Metrology Laboratory in-house experts, Mr. Ronald Pangan, Mr. Jefferson Lumor, and Engr. Shane Clavano.
The speakers discussed the precise calibration procedures for certain specific industrial equipment. Hands-on exercises were given for practical evaluation. Pre-test and post-test were also conducted to the participants to assess the learning outcome from the training.
The activity was conducted to upskill the employees of FABC on how to do periodic maintenance and in-house calibration of their equipment. It was also given in preparation for their upcoming ISO accreditation this year.
FABC is a large-scale banana plantation that exports Cavendish bananas internationally, particularly in Japan. It is among the primary sources of local employment in the community, with 100 employees or more. Aside from the economic contribution of the firm, it also aims to continuously improve the technical know-how of its employees.
โWeโre very satisfied with the training. I learned how to calibrate the equipment needed in banana production,โ said by one of the participants during the training evaluation.
After this training, the firm is expected to increase its productivity and efficiency.
The Department of Science and Technology 10 through the Regional Standards and Testing Laboratory is open to conduct metrology-related trainings in various parts of the region. Interested companies may express their intent through a letter addressed to the officer-in-charge, Engr. Romela N. Ratilla, through the RSTL Manager, through the RSTL Head, Engr. Frumencio B. Quiblat, Jr. The LOIs may be sent to ord@region10.dost.gov.ph. The RSTL also offers calibration services, chemical and microbiological testing for water, food, and swab samples, as well as shelf-life evaluation studies.
Aside from the services and trainings from RSTL, DOST also provides consultancy services and technology upgrading to interested firms through the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP). (Delwin Balanay Jr/DOST10)
