GNBS IN FOCUS NEWSLETTER SEPT-OCT 2024

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GNBS FOCUS IN

GYS 509:2013

Specification for indigenous furniture

GYS 506:2013

GCP 31:2010

Code of practice for manufacture of Wooden Craft items

GYS 246:2010

Specification for Cassava Bread

Specification for Spices & sauces Link

PROMOTING STANDARDS FOR THE SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION OF QUALITY INDIGENOUS PRODUCTSHERITAGE MONTH

In celebration of Amerindian Heritage Month, the GNBS highlighted standards that support Indigenous products, fostering local economic growth while preserving cultural traditions. The 2024 theme was, "Many Voices, One Song." Standards like the Specification for Cassava Bread and Indigenous Furniture ensure those products meet quality benchmarks while maintaining authenticity.

Meanwhile, the GNBS featured the Specification for Indigenous Furniture and the Code of Practice for Wooden Craft Items, which can help producers create safe, high-quality items These standards preserve traditional craftsmanship while meeting market demands.

Additionally the GNBS celebrated local manufacturers of indigenous products including Sandflower

NBS CERTIFIES NEW

LOCAL MANUFACTURERS UNDER MADE IN UYANA CERTIFICATION MARK PROG.

wo new companies under its Made in Guyana Certification Mark Programme Those companies are Mursia’s Products and Ventriz Products

Mursia’s Products is now allowed to use the GNBS Approved Made in Guyana Standards Mark on its green seasoning, pepper sauce (corilla, cucumber, hot sauce and sourie), minced garlic and grated ginger, while Ventriz Products can use the mark on its flavoured, ready-to-eat plantain chips (cheddar cheese, sea salt and vinegar, ketchup and sweet heat)

MURSIA’S PRODUCTS

PRODUCTS

VENTRIZ

In October, the GNBS certified two new companies under the Programme; Guyana Market International of Farm, East Bank Demerara and Wardy’s Agro-Processing Establishment of New Amsterdam, Berbice

Guyana Market International is now approved to carry the GNBS Approved Made in Guyana Mark on its Coconut Biscuits, Fried Channa, Plantain Chips, Green Seasoning, Fried Split Peas, Tamarind Balls, and Pepper Sauce.

Meanwhile, Wardy’s Agro-Processing is now approved to carry the GNBS Approved Made in Guyana Mark on its Sweet Potato Flour, Corn Flour, Plantain Flour, Cassava Flour, Moringa Powder, Eddoe Flour and Super 5 Porridge Mix.

The GNBS congratulates these companies for reaching this milestone!

TWENTY PROFESSIONALS

TRAINED ON INTERNAL AUDITING OF ISO

Twenty employees from various companies are now better equipped with knowledge of the Internal Auditing of ISO Management Systems The GNBS Business Development Team completed a three-day training course to equip them with the essential tools and techniques required for

The training September execute a st write clear

e training included ity of Guyana, the eference Lab, the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD), Industrial Fabrications Inc., Massy Stores, Sustainable Environmental Solutions and the GNBS.

The GNBS teamed up with Delphi Consultants Ltd. to offer a comprehensive training course on the Implementation & Documentation of ISO 45001- Occupational Safety and Health Standard. Led by experienced Quality Management System Consultant, Mr Orett Campbell, the course provided step-bystep guidance on building strong occupational health and safety systems, to improve workplace safety, and promote compliance

Participants learned best practices for effective documentation, strategies to prevent workplace accidents, and techniques for fostering a culture of continual improvement in health and safety This hands-on training will help businesses meet international safety requirements, minimize risks, and enhance operational efficiency.

The 15 participants of the training included employees of Bounty Farms, New GPC Inc., the Government Analyst – Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD), the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Co. Ltd. (GTT), and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC).

STAKEHOLDERS ENGAGED ON STANDARDS FOR US SUBSTANCES

In September, the GNBS hosted a Public Consultation Session as its Standardisation Team works to revise several standards. The first session was held on September 10 for the DCRS 80:202x, Terminology and Definitions for Hazardous Substances and Products Containing Hazardous Substances and the DCRS 81:202x, Hazardous Substances and Products Containing Hazardous Substances – Classification and Labelling Standards

This session was hosted to discuss the revision of the standards and to garner stakeholders’ comments and inputs in keeping with the standards development process

The public comments period for the Hazardous Substances standard concluded on October 01

GNBS & DELPHI CONSULTANTS LTD. CONDUCT THREE-DAY TRAINING ON ISO 9001 STANDARD

Fourteen employees from various companies are now better equipped with the knowledge of Implementing and Documenting the ISO 9001:2015 Standard as the GNBS collaborated with Delphi Consultants Ltd The three-day training course provided the tools and techniques required to effectively implement and document the requirements of the standard

The training, which was conducted from September 16 – September 18, 2024, enabled participants to develop and document a Quality Management System (QMS) and implement an effective QMS by developing the Policy and Objectives. They also learned to revise existing QMS documentation utilising the process approach and risk-based thinking techniques

Participants of the training included employees of the University of Guyana, the National Public Health Reference Lab, Woodlands Hospital Limited and staff of the GNBS

CONCRETE PRODUCTS AND MEDICAL LAB RECERTIFIED IN SEPTEMBER

On September 20, KSM Investments Inc. successfully achieved re-certification under the GNBS Approved Made in Guyana Standards Mark Programme for its Concrete Pavers, Vent Blocks, and Concrete Hollow Blocks This recertification underscored the quality and authenticity of these locally manufactured products The Made in Guyana certificate was handed over by GNBS Technical Officer, Latchman Mootoosammi to Mahadeo Panchu, Chairman of KSM Investments

Meanwhile, on September 23, Dr. Balwant Singh’s Hospital was recertified to the National Standard, GYS 170: 2021 – General requirements for the operation of a laboratory This achievement indicates that the laboratory continues to meet the requirements of the national standard to deliver reliable and accurate test results

GNBS Acting Head of Certification Services, Keon Rankin, and Technical Officer, Rachel Cecil, handed over the certificate and plaque to Senior Medical Technologist, Kiana Wilson.

Congratulations to these companies on being recertified!

GNBS CONDUCTS 2-DAY OUTREACH VISIT TO REGION

TWO IN SEPTEMBER

Members from the Corporate Communications, Business Development and Product Compliance Departments of the GNBS embarked on a two-day outreach visit to the Essequibo Coast, Region Two

During the outreach, the team met with the Essequibo Chamber of Commerce and members of the business community of the region. The discussion focused on the development and implementation of industry standards that are essential for quality products and services The GNBS team also highlighted efforts made to monitor the quality of products to ensure that consumers receive goods that meet established standards

Further, the team conducted three (3) school lectures with the Grades Ten (10) and Eleven (11) Business Students of the Johanna Cecilia, Abram Zuil and Charity Secondary Schools The students were educated on the key functions of the GNBS, careers in standards, the importance of using the International System of Units (Metric System) and their rights and responsibilities as consumers.

Johanna Cecilia Secondary
Abram Zuil Secondary
Charity Secondary

established standards

Further, the team conducted two (2) school lectures with the Grades Ten (10) and Eleven (11) Business Students of the Christianburg Wismar and Linden Foundation Secondary Schools The students were educated on the key functions of the GNBS, careers in Standards, the importance of using the International System of Units (Metric System) and their rights and responsibilities as consumers A subsequent radio programme was conducted to share information on the GNBS and its services with the township.

GNBS ENGAGES STUDENTS DURING EXCITING CAREER DAY

AT SKELDON HIGH

On September 27, the GNBS participated Skeldon High School’s Career Day in Berbice

During the event, students were provided wi valuable insights into diverse care opportunities in the field of Standardisatio including metrology, certification, and quality

By participating in initiatives like these, the GNBS demonstrates commitment to connecting students with promising career paths and inspiring the next generation to contribute to Guyana’s growth through standards implementation

EDUCATION MONTH 2024

Theme: “Investing in Education, Bridging the Gaps, Creating Opportunities”

GNBS OBSERVES AMERINDIAN HERITAGE MONTH WITH COOK OUT

In observance of Amerindian Heritage Month, team members of the GNBS’ Human Resources, Business Development, Legal Metrology and Oil and Gas Departments prepared lunch for all employees on September 27.

On the menu were tantalizing and tasty cassareep chicken with rice, boiled and fried cassavas accompanied by quinches, cassava pones and local fruit juice Through initiative like these the GNBS aims to foster employee relations and team-building capacity

GNBS ED PARTICIPATES IN CROSQ WORKSHOP, INT’L BUSINESS CONFERENCE

During the month of October, the GNBS Executive Director Mr. Trevor Bassoo participated in the 45th Meeting of the CROSQ Council and the InDiCo-Global European Standardisation System Workshop in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The event provided insightful presentations on how quality across the region is being advanced as

PROMOTING FRESH PRODUCE AND FOOD SECURITY THROUGH STANDARDS DURING AGRICULTURE MONTH

Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Guyana’s economy, contributing significantly to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and providing employment for thousands of citizens. With fertile lands and vast potential for food production, agriculture is not only critical for local food security, but it also positions Guyana as a major player in regional and global food markets

The GNBS plays a pivotal role in advancing the agriculture sector by developing and adopting crucial standards to promote efficiency, safety, and quality. Standards such as GCP 21 - Code of Practice for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables and GCP 25 - Code of Practice for Packaging and Transport of Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables are instrumental in ensuring that agricultural practices meet international benchmarks

These standards are among over forty (40) agriculture-related standards available at the GNBS and they are essential for maintaining quality and safety, which in turn supports food security and competitiveness. Implementing these standards helps to ensure that Guyana’s agriculture sector remains resilient, competitive, and capable of feeding future generations

Access more standards on our Standards Portal: https://gnbsguy com/

SEVERAL PROFESSIONALS BENEFIT FROM TRAININGS

IN OCTOBER

Under the expert guidance of our Development Department, a three-day course was conducted on Understan Requirements of ISO 9001:2015, which provide participants with the understand standard’s objectives and requirements.

A total of thirteen (13) participants bene the invaluable knowledge to apply the req of the standard in their respective organi enhance efficiency and achieve quality ma excellence

Participants of the training included employees of the C. B & Associates Inc., VICCORP Lab, the Guyana Energy Agency, the Government AnalystFood and Drug Department, the Guyana National Shipping Company, Cevon's Waste Management and staff of the GNBS.

Meanwhile, a two-day course on Process Mapping was conducted to provide an understanding of the principles and techniques of Process Mapping to enable participants to correctly map out processes within their respective organisation

A total of fifteen (15) participants can now use these techniques to assess, diagnose, and improve workflows to identify and eliminate waste and non-productive activities

Participants of the training included employees of the Pesticides and Toxic Chemical Control Board, University of Guyana, Demerara Mutual, FarFan and Mendes and the GNBS

p g g y p

GYS:170:2021 Standard, which outlines the General Requirements for the Operation of a Laboratory

The GNBS certification plaque and certificate were presented to the Honourable Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, and NPHRL Laboratory Director, Mrs. Joyce Whyte-Chin.

This national certification assures the public that the National Public Health Reference Laboratory is now equipped to consistently provide precise and reliable diagnostic services, essential in the timely identification of diseases and public health threats.

FIVE LOCAL COMPANIES SUCCESSFULLY RECERTIFIED IN OCTOBER

Five companies have successfully renewed their certification under the GNBS certification programmes in October, showing their dedication to the delivery of quality products and services

The GNBS extends congratulations to Morning Glory Inc , Roy’s Extra Quality Products, DCSN Manufacturing and Barama Company Ltd. which were recertified under the GNBS’ Made in Guyana Certification Mark Programme for their various products. Meanwhile, the St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Laboratory was recertified under the GNBS Laboratory Certification Programme

ROY’S EXTRA QUALITY PRODUCTS

MORNING GLORY INC.
ST. JOSEPH MERCY HOSPITAL

GNBS HOSTS EXCITING AWARENESS SESSION FOR MSME’s

The GNBS, through its Business Development Department, conducted an awareness session on the GYS 901:2024 Standard for MSMEs, the Made in Guyana Certification Programme and the certification of Concrete Hollow Blocks. The session, which benefitted 17 persons, was conducted with targeted groups of MSMEs from the private sector including those from the construction, brokerage, agroprocessing and manufacturing

The GYS 901: 2024 standard is a crucial tool for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). It provides an organized approach to quality and occupational safety and aids firms in continuous improvement Conformance to the standard is a steppingstone towards implementing the ISO 9001 Standard

Participants also benefitted from information on the GNBS' Made in Guyana Certification Programme as well as the certification of Concrete Hollow Blocks which allowed manufacturers in attendance to understand the importance of conforming to standards and how they can ultimately build a competitive edge through certification

The host school, Bygeval Secondary School copped the top prize, while Rosignol Secondary and Fort Wellington Secondary secured 2nd and 3rd places, respectively

Competitions like these help students to develop essential public speaking abilities while at the same time

GNBS REWARDS WINNERS OF NATIONAL QUALITY WEEK ‘LIKE AND SHARE’ CAMPAIGN

Just ahead of National Quality Week, the GNBS launched its third Social Media Like and Share Campaign This year, Mr Troy Benjamin, Ms Kateri Xavier and Ms Surujdai Narine were the three lucky winners copping First, Second and Third Place, respectively.

The winners were presented with cheques of $100,000, $50,000 and $30,000, respectively The GNBS Executive Director, Trevor Bassoo congratulated them for participating in the competition which attracted more than 6000 entries, 272 new YouTube subscribers and over 600 new followers on Facebook. The competition reached more than 94, 000 persons.

GNBS HOSTS EXCITING LONG SERVING AWARDS CEREMONY

On the grand finale of National Quality Week, the GNBS held its annual Staff Appreciation and Long Serving Awards, to honour employees who have tirelessly contributed to the GNBS success over the years This event was held on October 18

As customary, this occasion saw employees who have demonstrated loyalty and commitment to the GNBS Employees who have devoted five, ten, fifteen, twenty and twenty-five years of their careers to the Standards Body were recipients of well-deserved accolades. A total of eighteen (18) employees received long serving awards this year

This annual event is not merely a formality but a genuine expression of gratitude for the invaluable service provided by these dedicated individuals. It is a reflection of the GNBS’ appreciation for employees’ hard work, expertise, and commitment to upholding standards and quality

LLOYD DAVID - 25 YEARS
LORENZO GILL - 20 YEARS
VISHNU MATBADAL - 20 YEARS
RONDELL HENRY - 15 YEARS
VISHNU RAMLAGAN - 5 YEARS
ALWIN ETWAH - 20 YEARS
NAIPAUL SIRJUE - 5 YEARS
BREANA WILSON - 5 YEARS
CLIFTON FRANKLIN - 5 YEARS
AKEAN HILES - 5 YEARS

GNBS SOCIAL COMMITTEE HOSTS RANGOLI COMPETITION

Leading up to the celebration of Diwali 2024, the GNBS Social Committee hosted a Rangoli Competition allowing Team members to showcase their artistic talents This event not only highlighted our commitment to employee engagement but also strengthened the organisation’s team-building efforts At GNBS, we believe in cultivating a cohesive and diverse work environment through various team-building programmes and social activities

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