GNBS IN FOCUS NEWSLETTER MAR-APR 2024

GNBS FOCUS IN

GNBS CELEBRATES ITS WOMEN WITH A SUCCESSFUL BAKE SALE

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

Let’s #InspireInclusion to help forge a better, more inclusive world for women.

Imagine a gender equal world, a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive A world where difference is valued and celebrated Together we can forge women’s equality Collectively, we can all #InspireInclusion

On Friday, March 8 in observance of International Women’s Day 2024, the GNBS hosted a successful Bake Sale

Embracing the theme, the Bureau’s team was thrilled to host the sale to champion Women’s Rights and Health by indulging in delicious treats, knowing that each purchase contributed to a worthy cause

All proceeds were donated to an organisation dedicated to advancing W Initiatives.

GNBS GRANTS DUNAE TRADING MADE IN GUYANA CERTIFICATION

The Guyana National Bureau of Standards was delighted to extend congratulations to Dunae Trading Company Inc for achieving the rights to utilize the GNBS Approved Made in Guyana Standards Mark on its range of products

Dunae Trading Company Inc. was granted the esteemed privilege to display the Made in Guyana Standards Mark on their locally manufactured Household Cleaner, Car Care Detergent, Food Care Sanitizer, and Disinfectant

The certificate was formally presented by GNBS Technical Officers, Mr. Orlando Sturge and Ms. Asha Sookoo to Dunae Trading Company Inc.’s Chief of Operations, Melissa Younge

Dunae Trading Company Inc , located at 660-662 Section C, Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara, now joins the Made in Guyana list of enterprises that benefit from market recognition and the elevation of quality of their local products.

The certification is valid for one year, after which an opportunity for recertification is granted

On March 14, during the presentation ceremony, Technical Officer Orlando Sturge handed over the Made in Guyana Certificate to the Chief Executive Officer of Plastific Inc , Mr Vivekanand Ganesh

The Made in Guyana Standards Mark, a registered emblem, serves as a testament to the superior quality and authenticity of Guyanese products, both within the local and international markets.

WORLD WORLD CONSUMER CONSUMER

AND RESPONSIBLE AI FOR CONSUMERS”

Promotes consumer rights and protection and aims to advocate for fair and ethical business practices.

WORLD CONSUMER RIGHTS DAY - GNBS LOOKS TO ADVOCATE FOR RESPONSIBLE AI USE

As the world observed World Consumer Rights Day 2024 under the theme “Fair and responsible AI for consumers” on March 15, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding consumer interests and promoting ethical practices in the digital age

The theme came at a time when the world’s technological landscape is rapidly evolving Artificial intelligence (AI) plays an increasingly significant role in shaping consumer experiences With advancements that lead to personalized recommendations in automated decision-making processes, AI has the potential to enhance efficiency and convenience for consumers.

Recognizing the importance of addressing these challenges, and taking into consideration that this technology is relatively new to Guyana, the GNBS is looking to actively engage in initiatives aimed at promoting fair and responsible AI practices, and is opened to developing and adopting specific standards for AI.

The GNBS encourages businesses and organizations to adhere to principles of fairness, non-discrimination, and user privacy in their AI systems. By promoting transparency about how AI systems operate and the data they use, the GNBS joins with other likeminded and consumer protection organisations to empower consumers to make informed decisions about AI-driven products and services.

Since its establishment, the GNBS has been at the forefront of consumer protection through the verification of weighing and measuring instruments used in trade, the inspection and monitoring of products offered for sale, and the delivery of training and technical assistance to individuals and organisations aiming to provide quality goods and services In addition, the Bureau certifies laboratories and tests products consumers use for conformance to standards

On the occasion of World Consumer Rights Day, 2024, the GNBS reaffirms its commitment to maintaining its support to other consumer protection bodies - the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission (CCAC) and the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) To celebrate World Consumer Rights this year, GNBS, CCAC and DCA participated in the World Consumer Rights Pop Up Expo on March 15 on Main Street Avenue, Georgetown

GNBS PARTICIPATES IN WORLD CONSUMER RIGHTS DAY

As the world observed World Consumer Right 2024 under the theme “Fair and responsible consumers” on March 15, the GNBS reaffirm commitment to safeguarding consumer interest promoting ethical practices in the digital age.

To celebrate World Consumer Rights this year, G CCAC and DCA participated in the World Con Rights Pop Up Expo on March 15 on Main Avenue, Georgetown, to educate consumers their right and to empower them with knowledge

The GNBS presented two laboratory stickers to accompany, the renewed certificate and plaque, which are to be proudly displayed at the entrance of the facility

Meanwhile, on March 28, IMEX Incorporated Laboratory was granted renewal of its certification, also to the GYS 170:2021 Standard - General Requirements for the Operation of a Laboratory

a Fernandes and Laboratory Technician, Danielle Deleon, respectively by GNBS Technical Officers, Ms Charissa Wilson and Ms Asha Sookoo

When using the services of these laboratories customers can be assured when they will receive accurate and

The GNBS Business Development (BDD) Team facilitated a two-day training on March 19 - March 20 on Understanding the Requirements of ISO/IEC 17025:2017, General Requirements for Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories.

This training was geared towards helping laboratories to improve their process of facilitating more accurate diagnostics, efficient treatment, and reduced efforts in the laboratory process.

A total of fifteen (15) participants from the Guyana Power and Light Incorporated, New GPC Inc., Bounty Farms, Hydrometeorological, Sustainable Environment Solutions, and the Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory attended the training.

GNBS DISTRIBUTES STANDARDS IN ACADEMIA BOOKLETS AHEAD OF 2024

QUIZ COMPETITION

The Corporate Communications Department of the GNBS, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, has initiated preparations for the highly anticipated GNBS Standards in Academia Quiz Competition

As part of the GNBS’ efforts to engage students, the Standards in Academia (SIA) Initiative was launched in 2017 to educate primary-level students about standardisation and metrology

STANDARDS IN ACADEMIA Introducing Standards at the Primary School Level

This initiative also aims to lay the foundation for understanding the benefits of standards, their rights as consumers and how the GNBS protects them

In preparation for the competition, the CCD Team has distributed a number of SIA Booklets throughout the five participating regions: Region 3, Georgetown, Region 4, Region 5, and Region 6

The Standards in Academia Quiz Competition kicks off in Region 3 on April 16 with Belle West, Meten-MeerZorg, La Grange, and Windsor Forest Primary Schools.

HOLI HAPPY

LET'S CELEBRATE HOLI WITH A SPLASH OF LOVE.

May this festival of colors bring you good health, happiness, and prosperity.

GNBS STAFF ADORNED IN THEIR INDIAN ATTIRE

GNBS CERTIFIES MARCIA’S PRODUCTS MADE IN GUYANA

On April 2, Marcia’s Products was granted the esteemed privilege by the GNBS to display the Made in Guyana Standards Mark on their locally manufactured Cassava Bread and Cassava Casareep

During the brief hand-over ceremony, the Made in Guyana certificate was presented to Ms Marcia Gonsalves-Kwang, Chief Operating Officer and Manager of Marcia’s Products by Mr. Al Fraser, Executive Director (Ag.) of the GNBS

Marcia’s Products now joins the Made in Guyana list of enterprises that benefits from market recognition and the elevation of quality of their local products

The certification is valid for one year, after which an opportunity for renewal is granted

This training was geared towards equipping participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to develop labels that are not only visually appealing but also compliant with standards.

By enhancing labelling practices, businesses can improve their branding and product information, as they compete locally and on a global scale.

GNBS CONDUCTS

SUCCESSFUL THREE-DAY

OSH TRAINING

established criteria for an OSH policy, planning, implementation, operation, eview

eventeen (17) participants from the Analysts Food and Drug Department, pany Limited, Farfan and Mendes Inc , e GNBS attended

In observing Occupational Safety and Health Month 2024, the GNBS Business Development (BDD) facilitated a three-day training from April 03 to April 05 on Understanding the Requirements of ISO 45001:2018, General Requirements for Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Management System

This training was geared towards providing a framework for organizations to manage risks a improve OHS performance.

ISO 45001 training is crucial for workplace safety It equips individuals to identify risks, implement preventive measures, and contribute to a safer work environment Certification demonstrates commitment to employee well-being and compliance with regulations, benefitting both individuals and organizations

USING STANDARDS TO PROVIDE A SAFE WORKING ENVIRONMENT DURING OSH MONTH

Annually, April is designated Occupational Safety and Health Month and this year’s observances were held under the theme “We are running out of time: Ensuring Safe and Healthy work now in a changing climate” What better way is there to ensure a safe and healthy working environment than with the use of Standards?

One such International Standard that provides a framework for organisations to manage risks and improve Occupational Safety and Health (OS&H) performance is the ISO 45001 standard -Occupational health and safety management systems Requirements with guidance for use.

Using the Plan-Do-Check-Act methodology, it helps organisations of all sizes to reduce workplace incidents by identifying risks and applying the necessary control measures.

ISO 45001 specifies requirements for an occupational health and safety management system. It establishes criteria for an OH&S policy, objectives, planning, implementation, operation, auditing and review.

Key elements include leadership commitment, employees’ participation, risk assessment, legal and regulatory compliance, emergency planning, incident investigation and continual improvement.

Employers are encouraged to implement the requirements of the ISO 45001 to show employees and external stakeholders that their organisations are committed to workers’ health, safety and wellbeing leading to enhanced morale and reduced workplace injuries, illnesses and incidents Protecting your employees and customers reduces downtime and associated costs, as well as legal issues which can arise from such occurrences

According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), more than 7,600 people die from work-related accidents or diseases every day Protect your employees and customers this Occupational Safety and Health Month by implementing the requirements of the ISO 45001 Standard

Further observances saw scores of persons joining the Annual OSH Walk which took place on April 28, 2024

GNBS OSH COMMITTEE TAKES STRIDES FOR SAFETY: PARTICIPATES IN ANNUAL OSH WALK

GNBS FACILITATES AWARENESS SESSION ON PPE AND FIRE SAFETY

As Occupational Safety and Health Month unfolded, the spotlight was placed on the urgent imperative captured in this year’s theme, “Ensuring Safe and Healthy Work now in a Changing Climate”.

This poignant message resonates deeply as workplaces grapple with the evolving challenges presented by our changing environment.

On April 12, the GNBS took proactive strides in advancing workplace safety for its employees by facilitating an awareness session conducted by IRP Fire and Safety Guyana Inc

session delved into crucial topics of onal Protective Equipment (PPE) including ty helmets and gloves Aspects of Fire ty were also covered during the session

n era where climate shifts pose increasingly plex hazards, ensuring the safety and wellg of employees becomes not just a priority a necessity

GNBS’s commitment to fostering a culture afety through training and other initiatives is stament to its dedication to protecting the kforce

we navigate these turbulent times, engaging proactive activities aimed at promoting kplace safety emerges as a pivotal step ards safeguarding our most valuable asset –people

GNBS FACILITATES OSH LABOUR TALK BY THE MINISTRY OF LABOUR TO ENSURE SAFETY AT WORK

The session was led by Senior Occupational Safety and Health Officer, Ms Maxean Bess who highlighted the significance of adhering to safety laws and requirements to ensure a safe and healthy working environment

As part of the activities held for Occupational Safety and Health Month, the GNBS staff benefited from an awareness talk on OSH by the Ministry of Labour, which was conducted on April 19

This event aligned with the Ministry of Labour’s 2024 theme, “We are running out of time: Ensuring Safe and Healthy Work now in a changing climate,” that emphasized the critical importance of workplace safety

The session provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 99:06 - Number 32 of 1997 which offers a framework for organisations to manage risks and improve OSH performance

Hosting the session was a significant step towards ensuring a safe and healthy working environment at the GNBS, which protects the well-being of workers

GNBS CELEBRATES LABORATORY PROFESSIONALS DURING LAB PROFESSIONALS’ WEEK 2024

Medical Laboratory Professionals play a vital role in quality control and healthcare Conducting examinations and analyses of fluids, cells and materials, these personnel help to provide accurate diagnoses for patient care and aid in the delivery of reliable healthcare

During the week of April 14 to 20, laboratories in the public and private sectors joined in the observance of Medical Lab Professionals’ Week under the theme “The Future is Lab ” Laboratories are among the key stakeholders of the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS).

The GNBS, under its Laboratory Certification programme, certifies clinical and testing laboratories to the National Standard, GYS 170: 2021 “General requirements for the operation of a laboratory”.

This standard allows the laboratory to develop a comprehensive management system, which supports the daily functions of lab professionals to deliver accurate and reliable test results. To attain and maintain certification to the GYS 170 Standard, the work of laboratory professionals is important.

The GNBS constantly engages Lab Managers, Supervisors, Technicians and support staff through training, internal audits and other certification related activities which helps them to perform optimally

Oftentimes, these lab promote and implement standards ledge their invaluable services du

APRIL APRIL 114-20 4-20

“THE FUTURE IS LAB”

An annual celebration, honouring medical lab professionals who play a critical role in healthcare through diagnostic testing and patient care.

From April 15 to April 19, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards partnered with the CARICOM Regional Organization for Standards and Quality (CROSQ) to host a dynamic workshop on Quality Management Systems.

During this enlightening event, private sector companies were equipped with a solid foundation on internationally recognized certification standards, procedures and protocols Led by Mrs Sheryl Anderson, an expert from Quality System Solutions and Initiatives (QSSI), participants gained practical insights and actionable strategies to enhance their understanding and implementation of Quality Management Systems

The workshop showcased the tangible benefits of adhering to these standards, inspiring conformity and ultimately elevating the quality and competitiveness of products and services

By fostering a culture of quality and excellence, the event aimed to drive business success while ensuring consumer satisfaction and confidence

This engaging and informative workshop was the sixth held in the Caribbean under the 11th European Development Fund (EDF) Programme

StandardsinAcademia

Introducing Standards at the Primary Level

GNBS HOSTS THIRD STANDARDS IN ACADEMIA QUIZ COMPETITION

On April 16, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards in collaboration with the Ministry of Education officially kicked off the third edition of the Standards in Academia Quiz Competition 2024 with great enthusiasm

The first three legs of the competition took place on April 16, April 23, and April 30, with La Grange Primary, Graham’s Hall Primary and Diamond Primary, emerging as the regional winners, respectively

The excitement began in Region Three at the La Grange Primary School on the West Bank of Demerara, where students from the La Grange Primary School, Belle West Primary School, Meten-Meer-Zorg Primary and Windsor Forest Primary School participated

The second leg got underway in Georgetown at the Graham’s Hall Primary School. Participants were pupils from the Graham’s Hall, Redeemer, West Ruimveldt and St Margaret’s Primary Schools

Finally, the third leg was hosted at the GNBS Head Office with participating schools from Region 4 being Supply, Diamond, Beterverwagting and Gibson Primary Schools competing Diamond Primary School emerged winner

The competitions will continue in May in Regions 5 and 6, with the final on May 28 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre

APRIL 16 - MAY 28, 2024

MALIYAH’S KITCHEN BECOMES 40TH LOCAL

Milk Powder Fudge and Sal Sev (Chicken Foot) During the hand-over ceremony, the certificate was presented to Proprietress, Ms Alyssa Singh by GNBS Head of Certification Services, Keon Rankin

Maliyah’s Kitchen now joins several other companies that are a part of the GNBS Made in Guyana Certification Programme and became the fortieth company to become Made in Guyana Certified since 2021.

Consumers are encouraged to make products branded “Made in Guyana – GNBS Approved” their products of choice when shopping.

GNBS GRANTS THE RENEWAL OF CERTIFICATIONS FOR THREE ORGANISATIONS IN APRIL

In April, three businesses were granted approval to have their GNBS certificates renewed R Sookraj Jewellery and Fibre-Tech Industrial Plastics were presented with their renewal certificates under the GNBS Product Certification Programme, and the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation Laboratory was recertified under the Laboratory Certification Programme

R. Sookraj Jewellery

Fibre-Tech Industrial Plastics

Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation

On April 24, the GNBS observed Administrative Professionals Day, recognising the dedication and hard work of its administrative staff.

These professionals are the backbone of the organisation, ensuring the smooth operation of daily activities.

In honouring the staff, the GNBS expressed gratitude for their commitment, efficiency, and invaluable contribution to the success of our endeavours.

Tarla Parasram

Sheron Daniel Sheri-Ann Husbands

Dhanwanti Sasenarine

Sabiah Abrahim

Sumintra Ramkhelawan Bibi Haniff

Padmini Ramgobind Brianna Rodrigues

GNBS HONOURS ITS ADMINISTRATIVE

Faith Phillips

Jameel Gaskin

Devika Perkins

Natesha Alfred

Kenisha Voglezon

GNBS EMPOWERS GRADE 10 STUDENTS ON STANDARDS IN EDUCATION

The Corporate Communications and Marketing Departments of the GNBS facilitated an awareness session for thirty-five students from the South Ruimveldt Secondary School.

The students were educated on Standards, and the GNBS’ role in protecting consumers and enhancing business growth and development

The visiting students were also elated by the opportunity given to learn about careers in Standardisation and the importance of accuracy in measurements

These engagements aim not only to inform but to foster relationships with students as the future businessmen and women of our country, on the world of standards and consumer protection