BSR Insight | Making Factory-Based Programs Last: Observations from HERproject in India
About the Author(s)
Elissa Goldenberg, Associate, Advisory Services
Publication Date
May 22, 2012
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During a recent visit to HERproject programs in Southern India, I saw firsthand the positive impact of workplace-based, peer health education. As discussed in last month's feature on Levi Strauss & Company's new supply chain management strategy, an increasing number of companies are working with their suppliers to implement programs focused on workers' well-being, which typically depend on local NGO support. When that support ends, factories who want to sustain their programs often struggle. Building on lessons from India, companies can take the following steps to ensure the successful continuation of workplace programs:
- Encourage suppliers to integrate efforts into management processes. For example, combine trainings with new-hire orientations, or hold trainings during batch settings (when the factory line switches from one product to another).
- Provide the tools or materials needed, such as training curricula, videos, and pamphlets. NGOs often consider these materials as proprietary, meaning that factories cannot keep them. Watch out for BSR's HERproject Curriculum coming next month, which will include publicly available training resources designed for factories.
- Connect the factory with existing resources, such as local health clinics, NGOs, or government services.
- Establish a core team within the factory, which could include the HR director, welfare director, and factory nurse, that is responsible for continuing the program.
About the Author(s)
Elissa Goldenberg, Associate, Advisory Services
With four years of sustainability communications expertise, Elissa works with BSR member companies in a range of sectors—including those in information and communications technology; food, beverage, and agriculture; energy; and consumer products—on various sustainability issues including reporting, stakeholder engagement, and human rights... Read more →
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