ahead A MAGAZINE FROM HARDING — 1/2016
Major contract won:
We’re back in the cruise market! Harding has been awarded contracts to deliver innovative lifeboats, tender vessels and davits to a major cruise line.
>> FF1200 to safeguard
Johan Sverdrup
>> Go all-inclusive with Harding 360 Innovative service programme launched:
www.harding.no
JANUARY 2016
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ahead WELCOME TO THE HARDING MAGAZINE
dear friends, 2016 is here, and we are still facing a situation in which our industry is in a deep and prolonged crisis. The oil price keeps on decreasing and stability seems to pretty far off at the moment. In Harding, it has been clearly communicated that we must meet these challenging times with a forward-looking spirit and innovation that will benefit both our customers and our own products and services. It is with great pride I can share with you the great news that this philosophy is now bearing fruit.
Our global outreach gives us fantastic opportunities to give our clients better service worldwide. Our latest service, the Harding 360 programme, is a true game changer in the service market, and we are extremely enthusiastic about it – and so are our customers.
Harding is back in the cruise market! Ever since the merger between Schat-Harding and Noreq, it has been our clear aim to re-establish ourselves in the cruise market, and thanks to our prolonged and targeted efforts, we can now proudly announce that we are back!
Many of you are aware of our proud and long history in the lifesaving industry, and Harding’s roots date all the way back to the 1920s. Over the years, we have launched many ground-breaking innovations, improving the safety of seafarers all over the world. However, no such innovations would have been possible without our dedicated staff, and in this issue of Ahead magazine, we are happy to introduce you to a few of our longest-serving employees. Read about Knut, Kjersti and Arvid on pages 15–17. As always, a brief overview of our planned exhibitions is also provided on page 14.
As you know, Harding is about much more than just the products we deliver – we are also very much about service.
Wishing you all a great 2016 and looking forward to seeing you around.
Best Regards,
Bjørn Sturle Hillestad Global Sales & Marketing Director
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CO N T E N TS
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Harding secured Johan Sverdrup Nine Harding FF1200 lifeboat systems will safeguard the offshore workers operating phase 1 of the Johan Sverdrup North Sea development when the field starts producing in 2019.
8 A new life for customers and employees alike 9
Peace of mind at a fixed price Harding 360 is our new, global all-inclusive service programme. ‘The concept allows customers to say goodbye to all unforeseen and hidden costs related to servicing and gives them peace of mind,’ Business Development Manager Arnout IJzermans explains.
10 Key contract signals Harding’s cruise comeback 12 Raising re-hooking awareness 13 Exhibition overview 2016 Harding helping child refugees 14 Harding - forever With a combined total of 101 years’ experience, Arvid Skogseide, Kjersti Borlaug and Knut Bringedal take a trip down memory lane and reflect on Harding’s development since they entered the company back in the 1970s and 1980s.
Harding’s extreme makeovers
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As the years pass and conditions at sea take their toll, maritime lifesaving equipment deteriorates. Refurbishment is the answer to combating this aging process.
20 New in Harding 22 Harding Attitude Award
24 On top – with Harding’s logo on their chests
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NEW CONT R AC T Harding CEO Styrk Bekkenes (right) and Area Sales Manager Oddgeir Mælen are looking forward to delivering nine FF1200 lifeboat systems to the Johan Sverdrup field in the North Sea. (Field centre illustration: Statoil)
Harding secured Johan Sverdrup >>
In 2015, Statoil awarded Harding the prestigious contract for delivery of the nine freefall lifeboats needed for phase 1 of the Johan Sverdrup North Sea development. ‘A contract of great symbolic value,’ say Harding’s CEO Styrk Bekkenes and Area Sales Manager Oddgeir Mælen.
Johan Sverdrup, located 155 km west of Stavanger, is one of the largest oil discoveries ever made on the Norwegian continental shelf. When the field starts producing in 2019, Harding’s FF1200 lifeboat systems will safeguard the offshore workers operating the brand new field centre - which will consist of a processing platform, drilling platform, riser platform and living quarters. ‘Field operator Statoil’s order of nine freefall lifeboat systems for Johan Sverdrup represents solid validation of the quality of our products, the competence and commitment demonstrated by all our employees, and the effects of the significant restructuring that we have implemented in order to strengthen our competitive edge in a tough market. It therefore has great symbolic value,’ say Styrk Bekkenes and Oddgeir Mælen.
Demonstrates competitive edge The contract comprises nine FF1200 lifeboats, with nine corresponding LA 1200 SU davits, and is a relatively large order for Harding. The nine lifesaving systems will be delivered during 2017, and will then be installed on the living quarters platform for Johan Sverdrup. Both the lifeboats and the davit system have been developed by Harding in Norway. The lifeboats will be built in Norway, while the davits will be assembled at one of Harding’s overseas locations.
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‘We are currently working on compiling the documentation package for the nine systems and plan to start production in late summer,’ Mælen explains. Styrk Bekkenes says the contract is much appreciated by Harding. ‘The Johan Sverdrup delivery has been one of the few big contracts for new oil and gas developments in Norway for which we have been able to compete lately. We have been through an extremely tough and demanding tender process, characterised by a strong focus on costs and technical solutions. By having the winning tender, we demonstrate that Harding can deliver quality on time at the right price, even during difficult times,’ the CEO says.
Building further on the Statoil relationship He admits that Harding has also felt the consequences of the fall in oil prices and the reduced investment level in the oil and gas industry. ‘We have met this challenge with a comprehensive restructuring process, in which we have worked to reduce costs in order to maintain our competitive edge. The Johan Sverdrup contract demonstrates that we have succeeded to a great extent with this work.’ says Bekkenes.
Statoil has for many years been Harding’s most important customer in the North Sea. Harding’s CEO is glad to be able to build further on this relationship. ‘It is important for us to be part of Statoil’s future developments on the Norwegian shelf, and this first delivery to Johan Sverdrup will help to position Harding for new phases in this field, as well as the possible development of the Johan Castberg field,’ he points out.
Johan Sverdrup: >> Production start-up is scheduled for the end of 2019.
The field will be developed in phases. The first phase involves the establishment of a field centre consisting of four platforms.
>> Located on the Utsira Height in the North Sea, 155
kilometres west of Stavanger.
>> The water depth is 110–120 metres; the reservoir is
located at a depth of 1,900 metres.
>> First-phase investments are estimated at NOK 117
billion (2015 value). Total production revenues of NOK 1,350 billion over 50 years. >> Production during the first phase is estimated to be 315,000 – 380,000 barrels per day. Peak production estimated to reach 550,000 – 650,000 barrels per day. >> The field will be operated by electrical power
generated onshore.
>> The Johan Sverdrup field partners are: Statoil
40.0267% (operator), Lundin Norway 22.6%, Petoro 17.36%, Det norske oljeselskap 11.5733% and Maersk Oil 8.44%.
The contract comprises nine FF1200 lifeboats with corresponding davits, which are to be delivered during 2017.
(Source: Statoil)
JANURAY 2016
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O U R N E W H U B S I N S I N G A P O R E A N D R O T T E R DA M
A new life for customers and employees alike
>>
‘The new offices and workshops in Singapore and Rotterdam are a big boost for us,’ says Bjørn Sturle Hillestad, Global Sales and Marketing Director.
On 25 April 2015, Harding opened its combined office and workshop in Singapore, in fantastic premises in No. 4 Tuas Loop. Six months later, it was the Netherlands’ turn, as it hosted the grand opening of the company’s new office, workshop and training facilities in Schiedam in Rotterdam.
Everything under one roof ‘The establishment of regional hubs where our customers can get help with our whole range of products and services is an important part of Harding’s global strategy. We are therefore delighted that our new hubs in Singapore and Rotterdam are now up and running. Here, we have gathered our expertise under one roof in inviting modern premises, in good strategic locations in the ports of these two cities,’ says Hillestad. The two co-locations will create good synergies internally, but the advantages they offer customers are even more important.
Good customer response Both locations have complete service stations. They are equipped with engine overhaul facilities and test pools, and have the capacity and equipment to carry out complete lifeboat refurbishments. The Singapore hub has also been expanded with a new and capable project organisation, and it is home to Harding’s Asian spare parts warehouse. In Rotterdam, Harding has established a brand new training facility in the same location as its sales office and service station – a service that it is also considering establishing in Singapore. ‘The new locations have received good feedback from customers, and we have already seen a direct effect on our activities in Singapore. Visiting Harding in Rotterdam and Singapore and seeing the professional, systematic and efficient way work is carried out definitely inspires trust,’ the Global Sales and Marketing Director concludes.
‘Customers will now have access to more Harding resources in one place, and the offices’ locations will bring us even closer to our customers,’ Hillestad elaborates.
Photo gallery: 1: Mr. Tormod C. Endresen (Norwegian Ambassador for Singapore), CEO in Harding Styrk Bekkenes and Ms.Dilek Ayhan (Norwegian State Secretary) 2. Harding Safety Netherlands in Schiedam. 3. Let the Singapore opening party begin! 4. Kuganesan Mahatewan (left) and Daniel Lee (right) from Harding, taking the tour with one of our customers. 5. The workshop area of our new service station in Rotterdam. 6. Sky Chong Wun Leong (left) from Harding Safety together with enthusiastic customers.
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7. Arnout IJzerman pushing the red button together with the Norwegian ambassador Mrs. Anniken Ramberg Krutnes and Alderman of Economic Affairs Schiedam, Mr. Alex van Steenderen. 8. Roeland Scholtes, Leiv Kallestad, Bjørn Sturle Hillestad and Trond Paulsen were delighted to attend the Singapore opening. 9. Customers and Harding representatives assess the new service facilities in Rotterdam. 10: The night party in Rotterdam gave prospects for a bright future.
O U R N E W H U B S I N S I N G A P O R E A N D R O T T E R DA M
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HARDING 360
Peace of mind at a fixed price >>
In autumn 2015, Harding introduced a global all-inclusive service programme for the whole life cycle of maritime life-saving appliances, the Harding 360. ‘A true game changer in LSA servicing,’ says Arnout IJzermans, Business Development Manager Operations at Harding.
Traditionally, manufacturers of maritime life-saving appliances have provided a limited guarantee for new safety equipment, typically up to 12 months. After this period, vessel owners are on their own and have to keep track of regulatory inspections, handle services and repairs, and often deal with several service providers. As many vessel owners have experienced, this often results in high and unpredictable servicing costs.
Greater predictability ‘According to feedback from our customers, what they really want from a service provider is predictability in terms of costs and regulatory compliance, short servicing times and extended service intervals. Harding 360 addresses all of these concerns – contributing to improved safety and reduced vessel downtime,’ says IJzermans. He explains that Harding 360 has been developed to ensure the highest level of safety, operational readiness and regulatory compliance for the customers’ safety equipment. This is achieved by Harding taking full responsibility for regulatory inspections,
Do you have predictable service costs on your fleet?
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condition monitoring, preventive servicing, spare parts, training and, of course, any repairs. All this is taken care of at a fixed, annual rate. ‘In many ways, Harding 360 works as an extended warranty. The concept allows customers to say goodbye to all unforeseen and hidden costs related to servicing and gives them peace of mind. As many customers have noticed, this will also reduce the overall expenditure over the entire life cycle of the LSA equipment,’ IJzermans says.
Three service levels The new service programme is available on three levels: Standard, Advanced and Premium. The levels vary, among other things, in terms of the number of included services (preventive and corrective) and service ports the customers can call on. Premium customers can have inspections and services performed in all key ports worldwide.
Arnout IJzermans, Business Development Manager Operations, explains the Harding 360 features to Spares Coordinator Karoline Neset.
Harding 360 offers greater predictability and reduced total expenditure related to servicing life-saving equipment. And with the largest global service network in the industry, Harding is able to offer this extensive service programme on a truly worldwide level.
‘In my biased opinion, Harding’s service network gives us a global footprint that means we are the only company that can offer such an extensive service programme on a truly worldwide level,’ IJzermans points out.
If we are not proactive on behalf of our customers, we will miss deadlines, run into capacity problems and our costs will rise. So, in essence, our commercial success depends on our ability to be on top of our game,’ says IJzermans.
He also points out that the company does not limit the new programme to Harding equipment only.
Harding has already received very positive feedback from its customers, and the company is currently negotiating numerous contracts for the new service programme.
‘In fact, Harding 360 is a multi-brand extended warranty that wraps seamlessly around any standard factory warranty. Our more than 300 certified service engineers and coordinators can provide full support for the widest range of life-saving systems.’
Proactivity is the key Through the reinvention of the service Harding offers, the company promises to be a very proactive service provider. ‘This proactivity is not just a promise made to attract customers. It’s a vital part of the business logic underlying Harding 360.
Harding 360 – the main benefits: >> No unforeseen costs, reduced total expenditure –
year over year.
>> Complete overview of fleet, equipment and costs in
Harding 360 Dashboard
>> Coverage on three levels: Standard, Advanced and
Premium
>> Service port options ranging from main key ports to
full global coverage
>> Options for multi-brand servicing >> One contract, one contact, one invoice
JANURAY 2016
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Harding’s new cruise lifeboat has a record passenger capacity of 440. The cruise tender can transport 230 people to and from shore. Sleek and elegant all-enclosed davits ensure safe lowering and retrieval.
Key contract signals Harding’s cruise comeback >>
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Harding has been awarded contracts to deliver innovative lifeboats, tender vessels and davits to a major cruise line.
HARDING MAGAZINE
CRUISE
Out of the cruise segment since 2013, SOLAS leader Harding used the timeout to re-think their relationship to cruise owners and shipyards, and redesign their core products to meet the latest demands of the industry. The first deliveries will go to a leading cruise line, whose name had not been made public at the time of this release.
“A feather in our cap”
After being out of the cruise market since 2013, the new contract represents a solid re-entry for the former cruise giant.
“To become the chosen supplier for this prestigious project, we had to show that we could come up with something new, both to the owner and to the shipyard” says Harding CEO Styrk Bekkenes. “Getting contracts with world leaders is really a feather in our cap”, he adds. Bekkenes emphasizes the critical nature of relationships between suppliers, yards, and owners: “Convincing the shipyard that we had products that would meet the cruise lines’ high standards was our first challenge. Winning the confidence of a benchmark shipyard confirmed that we were back on the right track in the cruise segment.”
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CRUISE
Cruise Sales Director Hallvard E. Skaare
Safety by design
Completing the concept
The new Harding lifeboats are two stories unto themselves – a novel double-decker design that enables a record passenger capacity of 440.
Even the davits used to lower and retrieve lifeboats and tenders have undergone a transformation.
“Not only do the new boats carry more people, they are easier to load and unload, because each deck has two entrances,” states Cruise Sales Director Hallvard E. Skaare. The new design also shrinks the waterline, saving valuable space shipboard, while offering a roomier interior on board the lifeboat. “The comfort level is far above the present industry standard,” Skaare assures. The new lifeboats look so good passengers might find themselves wishing they could take one for a spin. The good news is, with Harding’s equally attractive tender vessels – they can. “Cruise owners want passengers to be immersed in the cruise experience from the time they set foot on board, and transportation to and from shore is part of that total experience,” says Skaare.
“The davits Harding supplies to the offshore industry are completely enclosed. This is for safety and maintenance purposes offshore, but an enclosed davit, designed for cruise, meets an aesthetic need as well,” says Skaare. No more rust stains, greasy wires, or scary-looking gears. Harding’s all-enclosed davits are sleek and elegant, enhancing rather than detracting from the ship’s overall appearance. And while pleasing passengers is the ultimate goal of a cruise line, lower maintenance and easier cleaning with the modern davits are added benefits that owners and operators can smile about from shore. So does all this innovation at once present risks? “We have been in the marine safety business since 1928. This is innovation based on proven engineering,” confirms Styrk Bekkenes.
With air conditioning, roomy and comfortable seats, and an ultramodern design, the new tenders will be an integral part of a new cruise concept. And Harding is taking it one step further.
New contract record In both scope and value, the new cruise contract represents the biggest to date for Harding Safety AS. ”We took the chance, and it paid off. This new contract gives us a renewed and important foothold in the cruise industry, at a time when the offshore market is suffering due to low oil prices,” says Bjørn Sturle Hillestad, Global Sales and Marketing Director in Harding Safety.
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Harding will deliver a total of: >> >> >> >>
12 x 440 person lifeboats 24 x 230 person Lifeboat/Tender 36 x PD55 DM davits 6 x rescue boat stations
The contract also includes options for further deliveries.
RE-HOOKING
The re-hooking seminar in Alexandria, Egypt gathered around 30 people representing ship owners, oil companies and class authorities.
Raising re-hooking awareness Seminar by seminar, Harding continues to increase new and existing customers’ knowledge of the IMO’s new hook regulations. No later than 1 July 2019, every lifeboat hook system must be compliant with IMO’s new regulations for lifeboat release and retrieval systems (MSC.1/ Circ.1392), which were issued in 2011. In Harding’s experience, many ship owners are still unfamiliar with the new requirements, and steps must to be taken to ensure that their hook systems comply with the latest regulations. ‘To raise awareness and knowledge of the new hook regulations, and to remind people that the clock is ticking fast, our company has been holding re-hooking seminars throughout the world for several years. We inform participants about the new requirements and explain the preparations and procedures for re-hooking lifeboats. Of course, we also highlight the many advantages of using Harding as the preferred re-hooking partner. Having performed more than a thousand re-hookings since 2012, we have the experience and expertise needed to deliver a first-class service,’ explains Tommy Hivand, Harding’s regional manager for Africa, the Middle East and India.
MSC.1/ Circ.1392 in brief: >> To increase safety at sea and increase seafarers’ trust
in lifeboats, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) adopted new regulations for lifeboat release and retrieval systems (MSC.1/ Circ.1392) in 2011.
>> The new guidelines define a standard for the design,
production and operation of the vital release hook systems with which all vessels must now comply.
>> MSC.1/Circ.1392 states that every lifeboat hook
system must be compliant no later than by the first scheduled dry-docking after 1 July 2014 – and by 1 July 2019 at the very latest.
Re-hooking by Harding: >> One point of contact for your entire fleet
Last summer, Alexandria in Egypt and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates were the venues for two of Harding’s re-hooking seminars. The event in Egypt was a collaboration between Harding’s Dubai office and Dolphin Marine – Harding’s service partner in the Middle East. In Alexandria, around 30 people representing ship owners, oil companies and class authorities attended. In Dubai, where Harding has organised similar events in recent years, 15 people attended.
>> All required drawings and calculations provided by
‘We find that these seminars are highly informative for our clients, creating a forum where they can raise all the questions they have about the new regulations. And, one way or another, all our seminars have also led to new enquiries, new orders or new clients,’ Hivand says.
>> Only highly trained and certified engineers are used.
Harding
>> Harding manages the approval process. >> Harding’s versatile hook system enables fleet
harmonisation, improving safety and costs of ownership.
>> Wherever you dry-dock, Harding will re-hook.
>> Includes Harding’s Computer-Based Training system.
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exhibitions 2016 Seatrade Cruise Global 14 - 17 March Asia Pacific Maritime 16 - 18 March OTC 2 - 5 May ONS, Stavanger 29 August - 1 September SMM 6 - 9 September Offshore Korea 19 - 21 October Adipec 7 - 10 November List of exhibitions and conferences online: harding.no We look forward to seeing you soon!
Harding helping child refugees
>>
In September, Harding donated NOK 150,000 to Redd Barna (Save the Children) and its work to improve conditions for children fleeing through the Middle East to Europe.
‘Europe is witnessing the biggest and fastest mass exodus of people in recent history. We are aware that children are the victims who are most affected, and it is the children who suffer most under these conditions. Redd Barna provides food, medication and vital emergency aid in areas where the need is greatest and conditions are most severe. We at Harding hope our donation will be a positive contribution to this important work,’ says Harding CEO Styrk Bekkenes.
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At the same time, he urged other companies to donate. ‘Times are tough, of course, for the offshore and maritime industries right now, with low oil prices and little work, but we hope and trust that more companies will be able to contribute. We would therefore like to appeal to other enterprises in our industry to embrace the spirit of giving and support this crucial humanitarian effort for refugees,’ Bekkenes says.
HISTORY
Harding – forever! >>
Harding has long been a pioneer in the field of maritime life-saving equipment. Arvid (left), Kjersti and Knut in Norway have been with the company since the 1970s and 1980s, and they are proud of the work that they and the rest of Harding have done to improve safety at sea.
Milestones in Harding’s history: 1928
1945
1957
1928: 1945: 1957:
A.P. Schat patented the first skates to launch a lifeboat from a listing ship. Schat Davits became the world leader in its field. The founders of Harding began building lifeboats in Norway. From wood to GRP production
Through hard work and a constant focus on innovation, the products, the services and the company have seen great changes and developed into the Harding we know today. Factory Manager Arvid Skogseide, Purchaser Kjersti Borlaug and Spares Coordinator Knut Bringedal have been with the company on long stretches of its journey. Combined, these three veterans have worked for Harding for 101 years.
Harding’s history started as long ago as in 1928, when A. P. Schat took out a patent on the first solution for launching lifeboats from a listing ship and became the world’s leading davit supplier. In 1945, Harding’s founders started building lifeboats in Norway.
‘Harding has developed tremendously during the years we have been here. You just have to take a look at our product range to see that. In parallel with this, we have made great progress in our production methods, in the service that we provide and, not least, in relation to health, safety and the environment. We have developed into a group with a truly global footprint,’ the three agree.
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HISTORY
Milestones in Harding’s history: 1928 1974: 1981: 1994: 1998: 2002:
1974 Harding innovated and launched the first freefall skid lifeboat in GRP. Harding innovated and launched the first vertical freefall drop lifeboat. A new type of cruise tender that set the standard for the industry was introduced. Schat-Harding achieved the world record height for freefall – 38 metres. Schat-Harding introduces the revolutionary KISS concept. Keep It Safe and Simple.
Free falling Arvid (62) has been head of lifeboat production at the factory in Ølve in Norway for ten years. He is the perfect example of an employee who has worked his way up from the shop floor. He has done most jobs in the factory at some point during his 42 years with Harding. Today, he is in charge of the factory’s deliveries of the company’s flagship product, the freefall lifeboat FF1200. The FF1200 was the first lifeboat to meet the latest stricter safety requirements for the Norwegian continental shelf. ‘When I started working at the factory in Ølve in 1973, I took part in building our very first enclosed lifeboat. It was a revolutionary product at the time, and the market was very sceptical about this innovation,´ Arvid Skogseide recalls. He was also in on the next big milestones: the development and production of the first freefall lifeboats in the 1980s and the introduction of vacuum casting, a much more working environment-friendly and efficient production method, around 2005. The factory manager believes that without vacuum casting, there probably wouldn’t still be lifeboat production in the Norwegian factory today. He was one of the driving forces behind the introduction of the new production method.
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‘I remember very well the first time I was on board one of our freefall lifeboats when it was launched. I was sitting next to the company’s owner at the time. I will never forget how drenched we both got when the top hatch was opened after the successful test and the water that had gathered on the hatch poured over us both,’ the 62-year-old reminisces with a big smile. Since then, Arvid, Kjersti and Knut have all been on several test launches. They have never been afraid, but they note that things have definitely improved. ‘The biggest difference between the freefall boats today and the ones we manufactured in the 1980s is probably that they are much more comfortable and you feel the G forces much less,’ say Kjersti (47) and Knut (50). They have both worked in production, but are now employed in Harding’s service division. They have been with the company for 27 and 32 years, respectively.
Always delivered quality The three colleagues feel that all the lifeboats that Harding has manufactured have one important thing in common. ‘Meeting all the requirements that apply at all times, Harding has always delivered quality! That has always been our trademark, which has
led customers to return to us when they need to equip new ships and installations.’ All three of them are glad they have had the chance to try their hand at different jobs in the group. The combination of constant new challenges, an excellent team spirit and friendly colleagues has made it a pleasure to come to work all these years, they say. The talk about challenges reminds Arvid of an episode from the 1970s. ‘The factory manager in Ølve at the time had taken a great liking to the ML40 lifeboat we were building at the time. No one was allowed to tamper with it in any way. As a foreman, I had thought a lot about the many hours we spent on putting the final cosmetic touches to the joint between the hull and superstructure. I therefore designed a rubbing strip to cover the joint. The factory manager was sceptical, but agreed to try out the innovation, with the following clear message: If the solution didn’t work, he would personally make me eat the whole rubbing strip,’ the present factory manager laughs – before adding that his rubbing strip immediately become standard equipment on this type of lifeboat. ‘Funny that you should tell that story, because I actually had to look for precisely such a rubbing strip for one of our service customers not long ago. Many of the boats we built during
1994 2005: 2009: 2009: 2010: 2013:
1998
2002
2005
2009 2010
2013
The first freefall lifeboat approved to meet new requirements above SOLAS – 36m freefall height and 20m wave height World record for highest freefall lifeboat drop at 55 metres The totally enclosed davit system was launched on the market and became an instant success. FF1200, The first freefall lifeboat to satisfy the new regulations for the NCS was delivered. Both Schat Harding and Noreq acquired by Herkules Capital and merged as Harding Safety AS
the 1970s and 1980s are still fully operational to this day. And that bears witness to what we said about the quality of Harding products,’ says Knut. He and Kjersti often have to engage in a bit of detective work while searching for parts and equipment for the oldest lifeboat models.
are confident that more contracts will follow, both from the offshore and cruise markets,’ the three agree.
‘Among other things, I have hunted out paint with the exact same colour as Donald Duck’s beak when Disney Cruise Line wanted to freshen up the lifeboats on board one of its ships,’ Knut says with a smile.
‘A good team spirit, determination and servicemindedness are three important keywords. I feel that all my colleagues are willing to go that extra mile to get the job done properly,’ says Knut, and illustrates this with an example from his own experience:
The extra mile Over the past six months, Harding has also felt the consequences of the downturn in the oil and gas industry, and the company has had to downsize the workforce at the lifeboat factory in Norway. Kjersti, Knut and Arvid acknowledge that it must be difficult for their colleagues who have been temporarily laid off, but they are nevertheless optimistic about the future. ‘When you have been in the industry for as long as we have, you know that demand comes in waves. We have seen both booms and busts. The last big downturn was in 1986, when the company went into liquidation. Luckily, we had many orders on our books at the time, and it didn’t take long for production to start up again under new owners. The situation is not dissimilar today. We have orders for lifeboats for the Johan Sverdrup field, and we
‘How would you describe Harding’s company culture?’
‘One time, a colleague and I had to send a set of eight lifeboat hooks for an urgent assignment in Denmark. The parts were to be delivered separately, but were delivered welded together from production department. My colleague and I then put on our overalls and started splitting the parts up in the workshop here at the head office. After working through the night, we managed to send the parts off early the following morning – and they arrived in time. That is just one example of the servicemindedness that I feel that we share here in Harding – an example I happened to be part of. My impression is that things like that happen all the time in our organisation,’ says the spares coordinator.
Will happily stay with Harding until retirement In case you were in any doubt: Arvid, Knut and Kjersti are all proud to work for Harding. ‘The company has played a very important role in improving safety at sea through the years. Every day when we go to work, we carry with us that tradition, and the desire to contribute to improving safety even more. And since we also deliver the best products and services on the market, then of course we are proud of Harding!’ ‘If we see a ship with Harding equipment, whether it is in a distant port we visit on holiday or on the fjord here in Norway, we feel a certain sense of ownership to that ship,’ the group says. What are your thoughts about the future? ‘We feel that there is passion in the company at present, even though times are hard. As long as we continue to be at the forefront of developments in terms of products, services and production methods, then we remain optimistic on Harding’s behalf. As regards ourselves... if the company will have us, we will probably stay here until we retire. We still have a lot to contribute, and would very much like to be in on the company’s future development,’ say Arvid Skogseide, Kjersti Borlaug and Knut Bringedal with a smile.
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REFURBISHING
Harding’s extreme makeovers
>>
Refurbishments make your lifesaving equipment look fresher and last longer.
As the years pass and conditions at sea take their toll, maritime lifesaving equipment deteriorates – first and foremost in terms of its appearance, but also in terms of functionality, durability and operational readiness. Refurbishment is the answer to combating this aging process. Refurbishing lifeboats, davits and winches has long been an important part of Harding’s services. As a result of the company’s offensive to strengthen its major hubs worldwide, Harding is now positioned to offer complete refurbishments at its facilities in Europe, Asia, South and North America, and the Middle East.
Increased focus on life extension ‘Customers worldwide have increased their focus on extending the life cycle of their equipment. By strengthening our services division and hubs around the world, Harding now has the capacity, and the right facilities and expertise to perform refurbishments at competitive global prices. And if a customer can’t ship his equipment to us, we will come to him. We have teams of highly skilled professionals who travel out to ships and installations to carry out refurbishment projects on-site,’ says Josh Lozano, GRP/ Refinishing Manager at Harding. Refurbishing a lifeboat can include everything from renovation and repairs to exterior and interior surfaces to engine overhaul/ replacement and the installation of new windows. Harding also offers a ‘light version’ of the refurbishment service – called ‘refinishing’. This makeover mainly focuses on cosmetic measures
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such as painting, polishing and waxing, using high-quality, marine-grade epoxy paint. This allows Harding to provide a quality that shines, ensuring that cruise lifeboats look their best on the side of the ships. Harding performs refurbishment and refinishing on both a small and a large scale, all over the world. For instance, last spring Harding USA teamed up with Harding Singapore and Harding Italy. In the space of about six weeks, the team visited three countries and refinished a grand total of 49 boats. First, in Singapore, the team of 17 technicians led by manager Josh Lozano was able to transform the canopies on Princess Cruise Line vessel, the Sapphire Princess – from old and dull to shiny and new.
New time record With a total of 16 lifeboats, six tenders, and two fast rescue boats, the team set a new record for the amount of work done in the shortest period of time, 14 working days. Holland America Line saw two vessels enter dry dock just days apart, the Nieuw Amsterdam, Freeport, Bahamas and the Zuiderdam, in Palermo, Italy. For the Nieuw Amsterdam, a team of 16 guys led by senior GRP technician Yordany Lozano refinished the canopies of six tenders and 12 lifeboats, and completely refinished two fast rescue boats.
REFURBISHING
Customised work packages In the case of the Zuiderdam, a team of 10 GRP technicians and two service technicians from Italy had five tenders to completely refinish, one tender to repower and a lifeboat with a new shaft to be installed, and they only had 12 days to complete the work. GRP/Refinishing Manager Josh Lozano elaborates: ‘Harding takes a different approach to refinishing. Rather than dictating a specific work scope, Harding surveys each individual vessel’s LSA equipment and talks to the staff and management to custom design the correct package for each client. Some vessels might only need the canopy repainted and the hull polished on all of the boats. Others might need a complete refinishing of their tenders, but their lifeboats and fast rescues boats can be in good shape. No two vessels are the same and it is all about catering to the needs of the customer.’
Refurbishment by Harding: >> Refurbishing of lifeboats, davits, winches >> Release hook upgrades (MSC1392) >> Engineering and verification >> Technical studies and reports >> Testing, certification and approvals >> Product guarantee
The benefits: >> Improved reliability >> Extended product life >> Reduced lifetime costs >> Compliance with MSC1206 and MSC1277.
GPR/Refinishing Manager Josh Lozano and Service Coordinator Leigh Ann Lozano, Harding USA.
>> A newer, fresher look (increased trust) >> Efficient processes - competitive prices
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NEWCOMERS
Georg Schille, Financial Analyst (Norway) Georg Schille has started his work as Finance Analyst in the Finance department in Norway. With his MBA from the Norwegian School of Economics, and additional experience from controller work and revision, he will be an important addition with complementary skills for our Finance team – reporting directly to the company’s Head of Business Controlling. Georg is an indigenous Rosendal guy, returning to his home community after many years away. He is an adventurer, and has participated in the “Clipper round the world race”. His experience from these voyages is something he makes use of in his day-to-day work.
new in harding >>
The Harding team continues to grow. Here you can meet some of our new faces.
Paola Rossi, Administrative/Financial Assistant (Italy) Paola is working to ensure that we can again do all the booking, invoicing and administrative jobs ourselves. We will start carrying out these function ourselves again from 1 January.
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Fabio Chiappori, Service Engineer (Italy) Fabio is located in Genoa, the second city in Italy for shipping, and he represents the focal point for the customers in that area.
Kjetil Fosen, Financial Analyst (Norway) Kjetil joined Harding’s Group Finance team in November 2015. Kjetil will be a key contributor to the Harding Group Finance team. In his spare time Kjetil is interested in football, the stock market, travelling and choir. Kjetil is a positive attitude guy from Haugesund. He has completed his studies in Bergen, and is now ready to try life in beautiful Kvinnherad.
Ali Fazal, Spares Coordinator (UAE) Since August, Ali Fazal has been the new Spares Coordinator at Harding’s Dubai office. Ali has several years’ experience within procurement, sales and logistic in the UAE. Before joining Harding, Ali had worked for Global Equipment & Supplies LLC where he spearheaded a wide range of operations entailing purchasing, dispatch operations, coordination, etc.
Deepu Geevarghese, Service Engineer (UAE) Deepu has a degree in electrical engineering and has several years’ experience as an electrical engineer before joining Harding in Dubai in July. He formerly worked for Lamprell Energy where he conducted inspections of ATEX certified instruments, equipment and tools.
Gina Costan, Office Administrator (UAE) On 1 October Gina Costan started working for Harding in Dubai as our new Office Administrator. Gina has a Bachelor of Science in Commerce (BSC), and has previous work experience from Goltens as Executive Assistant in their marketing department and Damen Shipyard as sales secretary.
Andrew Tait, Account Manager (UK) Andrew joined Harding UK’s sales team as account manager in August. He is a highly motivated individual with a strong background in Customer Account Management and has many contacts in the Aberdeen area.
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H A R D I N G AT T I T U D E AWA R D
Making a difference >>
‘Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference,’ said Winston Churchill, and we have many dedicated people in our global team who display this ‘little thing’ in their day-to-day work. For your inspiration, here is a small bouquet of last year’s Harding Attitude Award winners.
Wouter Maes, Group Project Manager, Harding Singapore March winner The jury and nominators say (excerpts): ‘After he joined his department, the whole department started to act with much more calm and composure. This is clearly demonstrated by the lengths he is willing to go to help not only his department, but other departments as well, such as service, sales and even production, to ensure the best customer experience for our clients.’
Amir Muharemovic, Service Coordinator, Harding Netherlands April winner The jury and nominators say (excerpts): ‘He has taken responsibility for more than just his own job as service coordinator. He has supported the service engineers in their day-to-day work, which has led to extremely good financial results in Q1. He has a highly motivating attitude to the service engineers, who struggle from time to time as a result of the absence of the manager. He provides Finance with useful information to enable them to report timely and accurately.’
Michael Ling, Logistics Coordinator, Harding UK May winner The jury and nominators say (excerpts): ‘Michael is a quiet individual, but demonstrates a very positive attitude and can be relied on 100%. The quality of his work and the fact that he never fails to meet a deadline reflect his attitude, commitment and attention to detail, which others comment upon and admire.’
Frøydis N. Mathisen, Marketing Coordinator, Harding Norway June winner The jury and nominators say (excerpts): ‘Frøydis is a perfect example of what “One Harding” stands for. She is always there for everyone, all the time! She always has a good solution and rarely says no if someone asks for something. She answers questions from early in the morning until late in the evening. She possesses a lot of knowledge that she shares with others if needed. She puts herself second and her work first.’
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Gerda Lise Traavik, Operator, Harding Norway July winner The jury and nominators say (excerpts): ‘She has done a great job of implementing LEAN in the production department. She has set a great example and has spearheaded the implementation. She is very talented and creative in her work in the assembly department. And she is very clear in her communications about work tasks, at the same time as she is loyal as regards how the work is to be done.’
Matthias Balcke, Sales Manager, Harding Germany August winner The jury and nominators say (excerpts): ‘He has shown that he is adaptable, always putting the company first and personal gain second. His motivational attitude towards customers and Harding employees is praiseworthy. He does not distinguish between whether a project is for the own sales account or for another area or even region.’
Jos Weterings, Workshop Supervisor, Harding Netherlands September winner The jury and nominators say (excerpts): ‘He is able to see and consider all the players in the game: customers, suppliers, colleagues, and he keeps everything on track, also the minor details. Jos is the linchpin between the office and Service Engineers, because of the respect he shows the people around him.’
Harish Shastry, Sales Manager, Harding Dubai October winner The jury and nominator say (excerpts): ‘Harish walks that extra mile in all his dealings, whether they are with colleagues or with valued customers. He is always positive, helpful and polite, and always treats people with respect. Harish always demonstrates a One Harding Attitude. He always considers this in his sales negotiations with customers and involves the other Harding entities in the process.’
Harding Attitude The Harding brand is built on decades of experience, pioneering innovation, hard work, and a strong focus on serving our clients. That same spirit and the same values live on in the company’s ‘Code of Conduct’, the Harding Attitude. To develop and ensure a continuing focus on our attitude to great service and care for both customers and colleagues, Harding honours employees who display the right mindset with a monthly Harding Attitude Award.
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On top – with Harding’s logo on their chests Harding has been a sponsor of Trio sports club for many years. It is one of the biggest sports clubs in the community where the company’s head office is located. The football players in Trio’s team for 13-year-old boys (G-13) are among the many young people to benefit from this sponsorship.
‘Even though the matches are over for this year and the dark and cold has descended on the training ground, the team shows the same keenness at our twice-weekly off-season practices.’ the proud coach says with a smile. He is also delighted that two of his players qualified for the district team this year.
‘Trio G-13 is a great group of promising young boys who train hard and have played football with great enthusiasm since the age of five or six,’ says coach Odd Steinar Arnesen.
Important contributions from sponsors
Second best in the league The team, which comprises fifteen players who practise three times a week, had one of their best seasons ever last year. ‘We played nine-a-side football in the first division for this age group, and the boys got all the way to the final. It was a tough match, and the players put in a huge effort. At the end of the match, we nevertheless had to admit defeat by five goals,’ the coach reports. Even though it was pretty disappointing at the time, he sees second place in the league as a great achievement – and a good starting point for next season.
He believes that Harding’s financial support is crucial to the activities of the G13 football team and the rest of Trio’s athletes. ‘We depend on the contributions from Harding and other businesses. Among other things, their financial support enables us to buy new equipment, such as football strips, balls and cones. If we had to cover all these expenses with membership fees alone, it would be far more expensive for the individual players,’ Arnesen emphasises, and adds: ‘I would say that the financial support from Harding makes it possible for the local community to develop good footballers by providing good training facilities. And it is the effort they put in during training that is the key to the team’s development and progress!’
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Responsible Publisher: Harding Safety AS Design and production: Zpirit Press: HBO Text: Zpirit, Harding Photos: Zpirit, Harding