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EcoOnline > Case Studies > Streamlining SDS Management with EcoOnline: A Case Study on Ekornes

Streamlining SDS Management with EcoOnline: A Case Study on Ekornes

Technology Category

Sensors - Chemical Sensors
Sensors - Liquid Detection Sensors

Applicable Industries

Buildings
Chemicals

Applicable Functions

Maintenance
Quality Assurance

Use Cases

Inventory Management
Onsite Human Safety Management

Services

System Integration

The Challenge

Ekornes, a large furniture manufacturer with facilities across Norway and the United States, faced significant challenges in managing safety data sheets (SDS) for over 940 chemical products used in their manufacturing processes. The company was using a paper-based system to store SDS, which were scattered across the organization, making it difficult to find the right document and access the latest, updated sheets. This system was not only inefficient but also posed a risk to employee safety as it was challenging to extract necessary information to develop efficient risk assessments and implement controls to reduce potential risks. The paper-based approach was not sustainable for such a large organization and took time away from other key activities. Ekornes recognized the need for a digital solution to streamline their SDS management processes and maintain compliance with the region’s regulations.

About The Customer

Ekornes is the largest furniture manufacturer in the Nordic region, with five facilities across Norway and one in the United States. Founded in 1934, the company offers state-of-the-art Scandinavian pieces and has furnished homes, hotels, office buildings, and even ships with their innovative brand. Ekornes employs a team of 1,500 people who are involved in all stages of furniture production, from making wood frames and welding steel to producing foam and painting parts. The company uses over 940 chemical products in its manufacturing processes, which are managed across seven different locations.

The Solution

EcoOnline’s SDS management solution was implemented to address Ekornes's challenges. The software provided a centralized platform for managing all chemical products on site, allowing approximately 1,000 employees to gain greater insight into the chemical products they were handling. EcoOnline’s QR code offering enabled employees to instantly access all necessary information relating to a specific chemical or substance by scanning the QR codes corresponding to that substance found at different locations on site. The software also facilitated the substitution of potentially dangerous chemicals, a key method of controlling hazards in the workplace. Furthermore, the system streamlined the risk assessment process using automation and smart forms, and provided a specific module for digitally tracking any chemical exposure employees had been subject to while working with a certain chemical product on site.

Operational Impact

The implementation of EcoOnline’s SDS management solution has significantly improved Ekornes's operations. The software has not only streamlined the management of safety data sheets but also enhanced employee safety by providing instant access to necessary information about the chemical products they handle. The QR code offering has made it easier for employees to access safety data sheets, reducing the time spent searching for the right document. The software has also facilitated the substitution of potentially dangerous chemicals, contributing to a safer working environment. Furthermore, the system has simplified the risk assessment process and enabled efficient tracking of chemical exposures, further enhancing employee safety and regulatory compliance.

Quantitative Benefit

Approximately 1,000 employees are now using the EcoOnline SDS management software.
The Ekornes team was able to carry out substitutions of potentially dangerous chemicals at least five times in the past year.
The software is now efficiently managing over 940 chemical products across seven different locations.