jan 2017 • Issue 22

www.omancables.com

Framework Agreements

Advanced Testing Lab Expansion

Enabling strategic and critical products to be planned in advance in an organized manner

Up-to-date testing capability that can perform the latest IEC, European and BSI tests in-house

CABLING THE WAYTO A BRIGHTFUTURE

Contents Message from the Ceo 2

Framework Agreements 3

DCRP Product Approval 4

Oman Cables first Corporate Video 5

Special Promotional Box to our Prestigious Top Customers

5

Oman Cables launched new website 6

Kuwait and New Markets Sales Team 6

Visitors 7

A Value Added Tax (VAT) will be introduced in Oman by the middle of 2017

8

Sales Work Ethics 10

Exhibitions and Conferences 11

Training on Supply-Chain Management 13

Interview with ICV Manager 13

ATL expansion to perform all the latest fire performance tests

14

Product Development and Engineering 15

Building Wire Line Omanization Program 16

Defibrillators 16

Fire Extinguisher Distribution Event 17

Omani Women’s Day 18

Wahiba Sands – Desert Adventure 18

Battle of the East 19

spartan Race 19

OCI’s lensman won honors in the Olympic photo competition in Greece

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jan 2017 • Issue 22

Dear Reader,

Another year has passed and this is the time to reflect back on what the year brought us and also the time to look forward to the New Year that is starting.

The year 2016 was characterized as the year in which the markets started to adjust themselves to the new reality of the oil prices. This resulted in challenging market circumstances for cables, not only in Oman but also in our export markets in the GCC where all are dependent for their economies on the oil revenues. At Oman Cables Industry we have completed several projects to improve our efficiency and on a separate note we opened beautiful new canteen facilities and contracted a new caterer for the food. I am happy with the feedback about the new atmosphere and like to see all having a good time and a happy meal in the canteen!

In 2017 we will all have to do our utmost to contribute to the company’s performance. The market will be very dynamic and requires us to be even more customer focused and flexible. We will soon finish the extension to the ATL

(Advanced Testing Laboratory) to be able to perform complicated fire performance tests on our cables. With this new testing facility we will be able to prove to our customers that our fire resistance cables meet most stringent international criteria. This will give customers the confidence that the quality of our cables is guaranteed!

In line with the objective to help our employees and their family members to stay safe at all times we also made fire extinguishers available for all our employees. The fire extinguishers should be kept in a visible place in our homes and we obviously hope that you will never have to use them. At Oman Cables we all know that having quality wires and cables in the house reduces the risk of a fire and that it potentially will save lives. At the launching ceremony Lieutenant Col. Ali Saif Al Khalidi said in his speech: “The idea of distributing fire extinguishers with a fire prevention guide is an excellent deed, and highly thoughtful of Oman Cables Industry. We really appreciate the company’s effort on taking the lead in spreading the awareness and the importance of fire safety to their employees.”

I wish you all a prosperous and safe 2017!

Gert HoefmanCEO

Message from the CEO

With the extension of new testing facility we will be able to prove to our customers that our fire resistance cables meet most stringent international criteria.

2 LIFEWIRE jan 2017 • Issue 22

Framework AgreementsWhat is a Framework Agreement?The definition of a framework is an agreement with suppliers to establish terms governing contracts that may be awarded during the life of the agreement. In other words, it is a general term for agreements that set out terms and conditions for making specific purchases (call-offs).

the Framework Agreement ensures the overall terms governing the various Purchase Orders and contracts that may be awarded during the life of the agreement.

Why have Framework Agreements in place?These are ultimately a “win win” for both parties and the benefits are substantial.

For a manufacturer like Oman Cables Industry, this provides “surety of supply” status so that cables can be manufactured and produced in confidence and even stocked for agreed periods under the knowledge that the goods will be taken up and sold. It assists to “smooth out” factory loading and enables strategic and critical required products to be planned in advance in an organized manner with greater efficiencies.

For the customers (usually large Utilities or Energy/Industrial Groups) it provides a guaranteed source of supply from approved manufacturers often with agreed stock holding levels and benefits such as special Trading Terms, Cost Reduction, Cutting Facility, Reduced Administrative costs of Tendering, Warehousing, Technical Training, Disaster

Recovery / emergency supply and a variety of other benefits.

A large Distributor customer might also consider a framework agreement but usually this would be more for the purpose of having an agreed set of Trading Terms and Conditions to support the various projects/contracts they see during the year.

The difference with a large Utility putting a Framework Agreement in place is that the Utility is dealing with a very limited and known set of cable or product requirements that are critical to its ongoing operation.

The Utility wants the benefits and potential cost reduction and for those reasons, is prepared to commit 2-3 years out, building and continuing a Long Term Partnership.

Market Overview:In the Electrical Utility / Energy Sector we see an ongoing toughening of the market. A fluctuating (and now increasing) Copper Price will continue to put more pressure on large volume purchasers to consider other more economical ways to build Transmission and Distribution

Networks. This includes the continued look at Aluminum Cables and more innovative and sophisticated high voltage transmission methods. It means ongoing pressure on pricing and it means a more aggressive approach from competing manufacturers in the region whom see their own traditional markets shrinking in some areas and therefore seek alternative markets for their existing products.

As always, we look for ongoing creative ways to ensure we are providing the best possible service for our customers and at the same time, seeking to lock in a long term supplier relationship under Framework Agreements either as an exclusive arrangement or as one of a number of approved and preferred manufacturers.

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DCRP PanelThe Distribution Code Review Panel was officially established pursuant to article 90 of Royal Decree 78/2004 of the law for the regulation and privatization of the electricity and related water sector.

This Panel is governed by a constitution that defines its scope, membership, duties and rules of conduct and operation as approved by the Authority for Electricity Regulations.

Oman Cables industry interfaces with the Panel for consideration of our various cables for approvals for use of those cables locally in Oman across the various Utilities and Electrical Industry.

DCRP Role and DutiesThe main role of this panel is to review the distribution code of the electricity system for product less than 132 KV by coordinating between the Licensed Distributors of electricity in Oman, the Authority for electricity regulations and other companies that are from the electricity sector.

The panel is also constituted to do the following duties:

• Review, discuss and develop the Distribution Code and its implementation

• Ensure that the Distribution Code at all times and in all times and in all respects meets the requirements of the licenses of each Licensed Distributors.

• Review and discuss suggestions for amendments to the Distribution Code which Licensed Distributors, the Authority for Electricity Regulations or any user may wish to submit to Licensed Distributors for consideration by the Panel from time to time.

• Discuss what changes are necessary to the Distribution Code arising out of any unforeseen circumstances referred to it by Licensed Distributors.

• To review existing Oman Electrical Standards relevant to distribution systems of Licensed Distributors and make recommendations to the Authority concerning modifications to existing Oman Electrical standards or proposals for new Oman Electrical Standards relevant to Distribution Systems of Licensed Distributors.

• To determine which contractors should be approved to work on the Distribution Systems of Licensed Distributors.

• To approve equipment that may be used on or form part of the Distribution Systems of Licensed Distributors.

• Publish recommendations and ensure that Distribution Systems of Licensed Distributors.

• Issue guidance in relation to the Distribution.

DCRP Product Approval

Khalil Al Shukaili, Sales Manager (Utilities) of Oman Cables Industry receiving DCRP Product Approval certificate for Low Voltage Cables.

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Oman Cables first Corporate VideoOman Cables Industry SAOG is pleased to announce the launch of it’s new Corporate Video 2016.

The corporate video gives an insight into why Oman Cables is one of the leading cable manufacturers in the GCC with an overview to it’s state of the art manufacturing facilities, testing labs, operations, timely delivery and everything backed up by excellent customer service.

The video sequences based on the slogan “Experience the Trust Advantage Today” which is a part of it’s new branding and marketing direction.

OCI’s special thanks to our shareholders, customers, networking partners and the staff who had participated in the making of the video.

The video can be viewed at:www.omancables.com > media > corporate video

Special Promotional Box to our Prestigious Top CustomersAs a continuous effort to connect with it’s customers, the Sales and Marketing team acknowledged their most prestigious customers and stake holders with a special promotional box that contained a corporate video brochure, USB, company profile brochure and a personal letter specifically thanking customers for their continuous trusted business relationship.

The promotional box set established a personal connection with our customers and enabled a unique way to communicate OCI’s brand message “Experience The Trust Advantage Today”. The customers thanked and appreciated the OCI team for their remarkable customer relationship efforts.

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Oman Cables launched new websiteOman Cables is proud to announce the launch of its newly re-designed website, with a bold new look and an enhanced navigation experience.

The website boasts a clean design and intuitive and consistent site-wide navigation system with improved menu functionality that directs the users to the information most relevant to them. It is also fully responsive with mobile devices, making it easy to navigate on a wide range of web browsers and mobile devices.

There are various new features being added to the website, including the live metal prices section to provide the customers with the latest London Metal Exchange (LME) prices.

Louis du Preez of Oman Cables explains that the main objective of the re-designed website is to make it faster, easier for customers to navigate and use. Most

of all, to help customers get to know oman Cables and its products better.

Going forward, Oman Cables will continue to communicate regularly through the website blog and social media and provide new information and notifications from the company.

Check out the new website at www.omancables.com

Kuwait and New Markets Sales TeamPart of oCI long term market expansion strategy is to expand its market reach beyond GCC. OCI witnessed huge market opportunity in the Middle East mainly in Kuwait, Iraq and Jordan due to the projects market size in all sectors Utility, Oil & Gas, Infrastructure and Commercial/ Residential.

OCI has succeeded in expanding its market share and managed to have its product range considered amongst the top cable and wire manufacturers across the region today. Throughout this period, OCI has managed to have exclusive agents in Kuwait, Iraq and Jordan who are well connected and highly capable to work in a professional manner in handling end users and local contractor businesses which helped

ensure OCI’s brand name to be at the top level due to its quality and reliability.

The entire product range is approved by local utilities including electricity companies, oil and gas companies, municipalities and electro-mechanical consultants.

The company’s product range has been used for a number of prestigious projects across Kuwait, Iraq and Jordan. The Kuwait and New Market sales team is based in Oman Cables Industry headquarters, Sultanate of Oman headed by Mr. Nazem Tayara and is assisted by Ms. Aisha Al Balushi.

6 LIFEWIRE jan 2017 • Issue 22

DCRP product approval team

Majan Electricity Company

Majan Electricity Company’s stores department visited OCI’s manufacturing and stores facilities to study and understand the company’s expertise in storage and logistic operations.

Visitors

Oman Cables and DCRP product approval team conducted an internal workshop on 27th July 2016 to study Oman Standards OES-2 at the OCI head office. The teams had a constructive discussion on the country’s future cable requirements and its standards.

Oman Cables adds value to all its customers by involving and showing their technical, commercial and highly sophisticated manufacturing facilites. This is to ensure that the Energy Industry maintains the highest posiible technology and know how to be on par with the latest international standards and practices.

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A Value Added Tax (VAT) will be introduced in Oman

“Implementation of VAT is in the final stages. Oman is working out a mechanism on how to collect the tax. So, by the mid-2017, we can expect VAT being introduced in Oman,” recently quoted by Tawfiq Al Lawati (member of the Majlis Al Shura’s economic committee)

What is VAT ?VAT stands for “Value Added Tax”. It is a Tax. A compulsory and unilateral levy imposed upon someone be they a Corporation or an Individual by a State, Country or Equivalent and enforceable by Law. The tax is levied on the import and supply of goods and services at each production and distribution stage.

VAT is a “consumption tax” to be ultimately paid by the end consumer…with the suppliers (businesses) acting as the collection agents for the Tax Authorities. VAT is not intended as a Tax on the business itself, unlike corporate income tax.

What does this mean for The Sultanate of Oman, OCI and for our customers ?For Oman it means more earnings for the Government which is desperately needed with crude oil prices touching all-time low, economists in Oman and neighboring countries have been stressing the need for VAT’s implementation to reduce the impact on the local and regional struggling economies. The Government has indicated that the revenue generated would provide OMR200 million to OMR300 million extra every year to put

towards the cost of providing Government Services. This is important given the Oman Governments announced deficit general budget and the government has focused heavily on preventive measures, such as increasing the contribution of non-oil revenues to total revenues, reducing dependence on oil revenues and the introduction of tax reforms for which the VAT introduction is an important part.

What happens across the GCC ?Governments in all the GCC have been working on a model which could be implemented across the member countries simultaneously. The VAT collected from companies is a Tax on everything we do and buy and sell. Companies will need to calculate the differential between what VAT they collect AND what they pay out…..that differential is the VAT amount given to the Government.

For OCI and many other companies our accounting systems can be adapted to suit this. The companies in reality become unpaid “Tax Collectors” for the Government. This same or similar Taxation System is done in many countries around the world and referred to as Value Added Tax (VAT) or sometimes also called Goods and Services Tax (GST).

For our customers across the GCC, the effect will be the same ie. the costs of goods will go up but again our customers (just like OCI) will pay to the Government “the differential between what they pay out for additional VAT and what they collect”. They also will become Tax collectors on behalf of the Government and be expected to complete

8 LIFEWIRE jan 2017 • Issue 22

their monthly, quarterly and yearly reports and Activity Statements and manage the payment mechanisms to pass the VAT collected across to the Government.

What Rate is the VAT expected to be ?According to the Shura member, once implemented, the VAT amount would be about three to five per cent, with foodstuff and certain other products to be exempted from the tax.

The Times of Oman reported that: Nasser Saidi, a GCC-based economist, said VAT is the most notable reform that Oman and its neighbors could adopt to boost revenue, while Manjot Sing Chug, a business tax advisor in Muscat, said given the current oil prices, the implementation of VAT is likely to be accepted as a positive measure for diversifying and strengthen the governments’ revenue base.

“While VAT is likely to be implemented at a uniform rate across the GCC, Oman should also plan to introduce selected excise taxes (e.g. on recreational vehicles, such as cars, boats, tobacco, alcoholic beverages, telecom services, hotels, energy products etc.),” Saidi stated.

Last December, there were media reports that countries in the GCC had agreed on key issues regarding the implementation of VAT in the region, but were still in talks about finalizing and unifying the process.

“VAT cannot be implemented unilaterally, but has to be part of a Gulf-wide decision and if all GCC states agree on a deadline, then some could implement it ahead of the others,” Anchan CK, an investment advisor in Muscat, noted.

Is it a Fair Tax ? Many people think VAT and GST is a fair way to collect Tax. It spreads the Tax across the population and

disperses it according to what is paid and collected on a proportional basis. It prevents people from escaping taxation through black market means, as even the person who goes to fill their car with will still pay the VAT at the Gas Pump. It certainly generates extra income for the Government.

What are the effects on the people of Oman ? Firstly in order for the Government to provide services to its people (Education, Utilities – Water, Electricity, Gas, Roads and Transport) then the government needs income. That income partly comes from Oil but as the country develops and grows then other businesses and the people themselves become generators of the wealth that the country has. Eventually as that develops, so do the Taxation systems to try and fairly capture some of that. The immediate benefit therefore to the people of Oman is – The ongoing provision of services and utilities that the Government needs income to provide.

The VAT MechanismTo fully understand the VAT mechanism and its implications to the business, there is a standard methodology that can be followed. Firstly we determine whether the core elements of the transaction are subject to VAT and how it is applied to each transaction. There will be various exemptions (where goods are “Zero Rated” for example when exported to non GCC countries).

So for each transaction the company will analyze and quickly assess :

¾ Is it Taxable Person (s) or Taxable entity

¾ Is it a Taxable Transaction ( ie. is it a “VATable Transaction)

¾ What is the Place of the Taxable Transaction

¾ Is there a VAT Exemption

¾ Is there Liability

¾ Is there a VAT Obligation

It sounds more complicated than it is, in most countries that a VAT has been introduced it’s fairly straightforward at the consumer point of purchase. The most complicated areas are for the company whom has to do the compliance and statement submissions at the end of each reporting period and for the Government to introduce an effective (usually online portal) for the management and collection of the VAT money.

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Sales Work Ethics

Sales managers and their staff have important ethical responsibilities with regards to their own actions as well as the behavior of the market. Ethics are moral principles or practices, they are professional standards of conduct thus, to act in an ethical fashion is to conform to some standard of moral behavior.

Sales people are exposed to greater ethical pressures than individuals in many other jobs. They work in relatively unsupervised settings in which they are primarily responsible for the company’s revenue, which at times can be stressful.

However, most people understand that the law cannot possibly cover and regulate all aspects of life – nor should it attempt to do so. They understand the need for a personal code of ethics beyond that covered by law. Most of us have our own personal code of ethics – what we will and will not do. A person’s true ethical code surfaces when tested under difficult conditions.

In the sales force the most common criteria to be successful is “your own choice”. This principle is what determines the success of the sales effort in any discipline. It is firstly the manner in which you are disciplined to perform your work without supervision. Visits far away from the office, personal time management and the information and energy you spend in the market is important to account for how many customers, on time appointments and appropriate information is shared for success.

At Oman Cables the Sales and Marketing team are performing their activities throughout the GCC, Iraq, Africa and our international markets. It is evident from the sales performance and high customer service values that OCI’s sales force have a high standard of ethics. This is backed by the

company’s “Code of Conduct” policy and personal training.

In today’s world, customers value companies which are safe to deal and those that have high ethical values. Oman Cables is one of the preferred suppliers in the world which professional companies can rely on in dealing with in a transparent and effective way. Documentation, pricing arrangements and adherence to the terms and Conditions of agreements is of utmost importance. Oman Cables values its Code of Conduct as a listed company on the Muscat Security Market.

In today’s world, customers value companies which are safe to deal and those that have high ethical values.

10 LIFEWIRE jan 2017 • Issue 22

Infra Oman took place in Muscat, Oman from 10-12 October, 2016, at Oman International Exhibition Centre. The government of Oman is moving ahead with its rapid development and ongoing construction of major infrastructure

projects in many parts of the country. More development projects, costing billions of dollars, are set to be implemented in the coming years as the Sultanate takes concrete measures to diversify its economy. As infrastructure

investments continue to grow, OCI’s presence at Infra Oman 2016 made a direct gateway to the opportunities in this sector, enabling the company to play a prominent role in the country’s development.

By bringing together all leading companies in the industry, ministry officials, CEOs and other senior managers, Infra oman served as an ideal platform for networking with key decision makers, expanding OCI’s business contacts and strengthening the company’s presence in Oman’s vibrant construction market.

Muscat Electricity Distribution Company (MEDC) had organized an annual gathering to meet with their suppliers and distributors to discuss and understand the future developments and the issues faced due to current operational factors.

OCI invested in the gold sponsorship programme to support the event and enhance it’s business relationship. Khalil Al Shukaili, Sales Manager (Utilities) receiving an award for OCI’s participation and support at the event.oCI always values and gladly participates in such industry events to ensure a close relationship with its customes.

Exhibitions and Conferences

Infra Oman Exhibition10th - 12th October 2016 , Oman International Exhibition Centre, Muscat, Oman

MEDC workshop26th May 2016, Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort, Muscat, Oman

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), organised the 18th Water, Energy, Technology, and Environment Exhibition (WETEX) from 4-6 October 2016, at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre in Dubai (UAE).

WETEX serves as a global platform for exhibitors to show the latest technologies, raise corporate profiles and promote products

and services while sharing ideas and best practices with the world’s leading players in water, energy, and environment. Oman Cables, being a regular supplier to DEWA for variety of cables and conductors for over a decade, participated as an exhibitor. The exhibition was well attended by Engineers from DEWA as well as other government utilities of UAe, Consultants, Contractors and members from the local and overseas trading community.

OCI received many guests at the exhibition, especially senior engineering and management staff of DeWA among others, who were highly appreciative of OCI’s product quality and reliability as a supplier. Participating at WETEX has helped OCI in networking with important representatives of clients like DEWA, developing new business contacts in the industry and consolidating existing business relationships.

WETEX4th – 6th October 2016Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Dubai, UAE

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As part of OCI’s expansion into East Africa, Murray Meltzer and Abdullah Al Jabri of Oman Cables Sales and Marketing team visited Kigali - Rwanda to attend the Ipad Conference and Product exhibition running 1-2 November 2016. The conference had a smaller attendance than the previous year but the Quality of the attendee’s overall and their relevance to OCI’s target cable business seemed a lot more relevant.

Exporting to Rwanda The principal drivers of the Rwandan economy are the production of agricultural and mineral commodities, tourism, and construction. Additionally, the Government of Rwanda maintains a significant focus on improving Rwanda’s energy and transportation infrastructure. Of interest to OCI is the Rural Electrification across the region which is expected to boost demand for a variety of Electricity Transmission and Distribution projects as well as further expansion of our Building Wire across the commercial and residential sectors.

As the Government of Rwanda looks to invest heavily in renewable energy production, producers of equipment used in the production of electricity from solar, hydro and geothermal sources may find significant export opportunities and opportunities for Cable, are of course tracking alongside that activity.

Intex Oman Exhibition and Forum5th – 7th December 2016Oman Convention and Exhibition Center, Muscat, Oman

Opening for the first time in the new Oman Exhibition Center, INTEX OMAN is a unique industrial trade fair in the Sultanate of Oman, converging five of the vibrant industrial sectors under one roof. This year, the trade event was designed in such a way that each sector complimented the other sector and the event gave a successful platform for all its stakeholders to reap optimum benefits. Oman Cables took a large size stand right at the entrance to the event and participated as a Gold Sponsor.

OCI’s GM Engineering and Product Development Mr Antony Falconer took the podium on the first day of the exhibition to deliver a public presentation on the importance of “Accelerated Aging Testing” of cables. With a mixture of customers, suppliers and DCRP

members present this gave a good opportunity to expand on this topic and delve into the technical understanding whilst outlining the specific benefits that Oman Cables offers via its Advanced Test Laboratory (ATL).

Industrial development is one of the most important and strategic plans of Sultanate of Oman.

In addition to industrialization efforts, Oman is actively marketing itself as an modern infrastructure; a strong industrial base; a liberal

investment environment; an export-oriented economy; a stable government with transparent corporate governance; the presence of institutions that protect investors and ensure their access to the market; attractive corporate tax and tax holidays; and laws and regulations that encourage enterprise so the exhibition is intended to provide a platform for that.

Ipad Rwanda1st – 2nd November 2016 , Kigali Serena Hotel, Kigali, Rwanda

12 LIFEWIRE jan 2017 • Issue 22

Interview with ICV ManagerWhat are the different facets of OCI’s ICV strategy? Apart from local sourcing of goods, OCI’s initiatives towards ICV are as detailed below:• Investing in advanced technologies by expanding the

production which will add additional investments to our fixed assets in the country.

• Training Nationals at all operating levels within the company and its customers.

• To retain highest percentage of total spend in a specific country.

• To fulfill the requirement within Oil and Gas industries and develop the capabilities.

How you are supporting the local businesses/SMEs through sourcing of goods or sub-contracted services?• oCI supported many small scale contractors

indirectly through distributors and the process is driven by our ICV team and management allocated budget for the same.

• OCI’s direct support to SME’s comes about by engaging logistics, cleaning, maintenance, security, including other services which are sub-contracted to local companies.

What is your contribution to the creation of job opportunities to Omanis? What steps you are taking to further build and deploy National Talent?• Pursuing our objective of using indigenous resources,

oman Cables has successfully completed another

intensive recruitment challenge by filling up business manpower requirements with competitive Omani nationals, we could hire up-to 60 Omanis in different positions.

• In order to motivate Omani employees to take higher job responsibilities, Oman Cables has introduced “Machine Allowance” for all operators.

• Moreover, Oman Cables is also fulfilling its commitment to develop the capabilities of its Omani staff on par with international standards by arranging different kinds of training and providing staff the opportunities to grow as a professional.

What are the challenges you face in enhancing ICV and how do you overcome them?Originally focussed on oil and gas, most of companies should explore the potential of other sectors as well to help diversity the field of ICV. It is important to not only initiate these projects but also to make them sustainable and this is the responsibility of all major companies. On the other hand, there was an impact of lower oil prices on ICV initiatives this year which was the most challenging in the Oil and Gas sector and this was discussed during our visits to PDO and other companies.

Ismail Al Balushi, ICV Manager

Training on Supply-Chain ManagementAs a part of training and development program, oman Cables Industry organized a 5 days intensive training on supply chain to its SCM associated employees. The APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) program is recognized worldwide as the premier supply chain management educational and certification program. The APICS CSCP program took a broad view of operations, extending beyond internal operations to encompass the

entire supply chain—from supplier, through the company, to the end consumer.the attendees reported that the

training was found to be very effective and they will be able apply best practices in SCM and increase professional value.

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ATL expansion to perform all the latest fire performance testsFor a long time OCI has had the ability to perform various standard fire performance tests at its factories at Al Rusayl. These include flame propagation tests, smoke emission tests, halogen gas emission tests and fire survival tests. We also perform various sample tests to ensure that our materials meet or exceed international requirements. Over the years these tests have been revised and improved, and they have become more stringent, beyond the capability of our existing equipment. This has meant time-consuming out-sourcing for essential development work.

What oCI needed was a new up-to-date testing capability, that can perform the latest IeC, European and BSI tests in-

house. Our existing Advanced Testing Laboratory (ATL) included a sample preparation area that had proved superfluous

to its needs, and it was agreed that this could be the site for an extension that will specifically perform all the latest fire performance tests.

The new test equipment, which includes a smoke chamber, flame propagation rig, and rigs for conducting all tests to IEC 60331, IEC 60332, BS 6387, BS 7849 and BS EN 50200, has all been built, inspected and tested, and is ready for delivery. The work on the building has commenced, with the CEO, Gert Hoefman, turning the first sod on the 8th of December.

It is intended that the first testing of development cables at the new facility will take place in early 2017.

The CEO, Gert Hoefman, turns the first sod.

The ATL, with the position of the new extension shown.

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Product Development and Engineering

our state of the art accelerated ageing facility is fully operational and many tests are in progress to evaluate long life of medium voltage cables. Cables made with various combinations of materials are being assessed. Accelerated ageing is a process used to prove that our cables will have a much longer in-service life. The latest high magnification microscope has made it easy to establish root cause of product failures arising from poor materials, contamination or due to process failures and helping in studying water tree growth in medium voltage aged samples. Equipment to study the effect of Ultraviolet rays on polymeric materials has already

produced interesting results and is in continuous operation to examine broad range of materials.

The product development lab is

not only catering routine tests for various polymer based compounds but also carries out root cause analysis on various raw material failures, study and evaluation of new materials with modern techniques such as Brabender rheology extruder, improvement in existing raw material sources and design cost reduction in materials without compromising the set quality standards of Oman Cables. The facility will soon have the addition of a modern fire test facility which is scheduled to be operational in early 2017 and will enable oman Cables to perform tests on new categories of fire survival cables and to evaluate materials and combinations of different materials.

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DefibrillatorsA defibrillator is a device that gives a high energy electric shock to the heart through the chest wall to someone who is in cardiac arrest to “re-start” the heart.We work in an environment dealing with electricity and machinery in the production of cable …in these situations, whilst it’s critical that we always work to reduce the chances of injury …knowing what to do when someone is injured and/or has cardiac arrest is important. Every minute counts and acting quickly and knowing what to do can save someone’s life !

What is Defibrillation:This high energy shock generated by these devices (AED’s) is called defibrillation, and it’s an essential life saving step in the chain of

survival. If you come across someone who has had a cardiac arrest (heart Attack) its vital to know the basics to start CPR, call emergency services….Then you should find out if there is a defibrillator nearby.

There are many defibrillators available in public places such as

train stations, shopping centers, airports and leisure centers. These defibrillators are often known as “public access defibrillators” (PAD) as anyone can use them in an emergency. You shouldn’t be afraid of using a defibrillator if someone has had a cardiac arrest. OCI has two of these units available with HSE department in Plant 1 and Plant 2. The instructions are detailed on the units and they are easy to use.

They can be used to save a life if someone has had a heart attack or cardiac arrest.

During 2016, OCI has completed “Project 11” which included relocating all Building Wire line machines into the new bay of Plant 2 Hall 2.

In line with OCI’s Omanization strategy, the company had set a target to Omanize Building Wire line operators fully by the end of 2016. OCI has therefore recruited

40 Omani operators in 2016 and they were all enrolled into a systematic on-the-job training program for this project. By the end of October 2016, Production team had an Omanization of 100% in Bunchers machines, 80% in insulation machines and 100% in coiling machines. Some operators have also been trained on more than one machine. They

are multi-skilled operators and can operate different machines as per the requirement. These operators are now producing OCI’s well-known high quality building wire coils.

“We are very proud of our full Building Wire team!” says Mr. Muhanned Al Lawati – General Manager – Production.

Building Wire Line Omanization Program

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Fire Extinguisher Distribution Event

oman Cables Industry has always been committed towards contribution to the national economy and the safety of all its employees. The company believes in giving back to the society through its Corporate Social Responsibility program (CSR).

As a part of the CsR program, the company organized its first fire safety gathering on the 25th October 2016. The event was honored by the presence of Chief Guest Lieutenant Col. Mr. Ali Saif Al Khalidi from the Civil Defense, Muscat as well as chief delegates from the Civil Defense Rusayl Area, Ministry of Manpower in Rusayl, Ministry of Chamber and Commerce, Ministry of Chamber Rusayl industrial area and the Headquarters of the Rusayl Industrial Area. Each employee was given a fire extinguisher along with a comprehensive guide to Fire Prevention and the operation of the extinguisher.

Gert Hoefman, CEO of Oman Cables Industry said that: “More often there is news about property and human life loss due to fire accidents. Some of these are caused by faulty, counterfeit and

unapproved cables and wiring. It is therefore always important to ensure the best and qualified electrical products are used. We must always follow preventive methods to prevent the accidental fires from being started. In addition to fire prevention, it is also important to have fire containment program. Fire extinguishers play a vital role in keeping us safe. Therefore the company is distributing fire extinguishers to all its employees for their safety.”

The Chief Guest Lieutenant Col. Ali Saif Al Khalidi said in his speech: “The idea of distributing fire extinguishers with a fire prevention guide is an excellent deed, and highly thoughtful of Oman Cables Industry.

We really appreciate the company’s effort on taking the lead in spreading the awareness and the importance of fire safety to their employees.” He also added: “Employees must take effort and understand the importance of fire safety, it’s very unfortunate that many neglect to see the value of it. He then thanked the CEO and Oman Cables Industry for this well thought initiative and we hope to see more of these valuable initiatives by other companies.”

Oman Cables Industry will further continue to expand this initiative to the general public on fire safety by creating awareness on fire prevention and fire containment programs.

The event concluded with a tour in the Advanced Testing Laboratory, the only one of its kind in the GCC region which was commissioned in 2014. There are many advanced tests conducted in this lab, from simulation of different environmental condition for cables to testing the cables to failure. The tour was well received and appreciated by our guests.

Oman Cables Industry distributed fire extinguishers to all its employees

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Omani Women’s DayOman Cables Industry celebrated Omani Women’s Day on the 23rd of November 2016 by inviting all women employees in the company into a special gathering.

The CEO Mr Gert Hoefman gave a speech on the importance of the Omani Women’s contribution towards the development of the sultanate of Oman and how the number of Omani women workers has increased exponentially in the last 45 years. He also highlighted the names of few successful Omani women personalities in many sectors including the government organizations. The CEO and the OCI management expressed their gratitude and appreciation for their efforts and contribution in balancing their work life and

personal life considering the cultural aspects of Omani Women’s duties towards their family and society. As a token of appreciation the management presented gifts to all women employees of the company.

Wahiba Sands – Desert AdventureWahiba Sands is located in Sharqiyah region which is a 4 hour drive away from Muscat. It is a desert measuring 180 km from north to south, 80 km from east to west and with dunes 100-150 meters high. Anyone who comes and visits Oman should never miss a Desert Safari experience!

Part of the Desert Safari activity is doing the sand dunes crossing where 4WD enthusiasts drive and explore the desert - generally together in a convoy.

For the more adventurous, the Wahiba Challenge Desert Crossing pitches small teams of vehicles to track across the Desert – on their own relying on their Navigational Skills and team spirit to get them across the desert.

OCI’s General Manager – Sales and Marketing – Louis du Preez himself a keen 4WD enthusiast knows that the “road to sales is

paved with occasional pitfalls” and the desert Crossing is not that dissimilar.

Team work and the right vehicle and the ability to never give up will get you through.

In his November “Birthday” Desert crossing he was lucky enough to prove that “wearing a seat belt is always a good idea” when he and his son experienced the power of the sand’s forces

when their trusted Jeep Wrangler had its Tyre de-rim on a sand dune and tipped over. Both driver and navigator walked away un-harmed and even the Jeep stood the test with minimal damage. The vehicle was put back on its wheels and continued on to finish the challenge.

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Battle of the EastUnder the umbrella of its In-country Value program and its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative Oman Cables in cooperation with Aslaa General Trading & Contracting Co. has supported and sponsored athletes from CrossFit® Tempo in the “Battle of the East” event in Kuwait in November, 2016.

The CrossFit® event “The Battle of the East” takes place in Kuwait annually and draws athletes from all over the Middle East and North Africa, as well as international athletes from Europe and the USA.

Oman Cables is always very keen to support Omani SME’s, which contribute to human capability development and stimulate productivity in Oman’s economy.

CrossFit® Tempo Box is located in Oman, owned managed and run by local ambitious expertise. CrossFit® Tempo also specialize in food programming, team building, building gyms and providing trainers.

CrossFit workouts incorporate elements from high-intensity interval training, Olympic weightlifting, plyometrics, powerlifting, gymnastics, girevoy sport, calisthenics, strongman, and other exercises.

Spartan RaceThe world-famous Spartan Race endurance challenge for its first time ever took place on October 21 at Oman’s Jabal Sifah.

The event was organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports Affairs and Ministry of Tourism. Spartan Race is considered to be one of the world’s best obstacle course events.the spartan Race was not an everyday running race. The participants had to run, climb, push, pull, throw and crawl through walls, hills, mud, barbed wire and other challenging but fun obstacles.

Oman Cables General Manager Sales and Marketing Louis du Preez along with Benjamin Najeeb Brandt participated in the 5+km course

with over 20 obstacles surrounded by the pristine waters of As Sifah beach, it was indeed an epic race.

“We took on the challenge beyond our daily commute and stepped out of our comfort zone to plunge into

the world of Spartan”. said Mr Louis du Preez, General manager – Sales and Marketing.

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OCI’s lensman won honors in the Olympic photo competition in GreeceAli Al-Lawati, OCI’s Asst. Manager, Business Intelligence who is also a photography fanatic won two International honorable mentions at the ‘4th Olympic Circuit 2016’ competition conducted in Greece and “SQUARE 2016” competition conducted in Oman. The competitions were conducted by the prestigious “Photography Society of America ” and “International Federation of Photographic Art ”. Ali sent 16 photographs for the Olympic Circuit competition under four categories: Travel, General color, General monochrome and Nature. His photo won among more than 2000 photgraphers worldwide under the Travel category. The winning photo named ‘Grocery’ in the travel category was clicked in Mumbai, India.

‘The Holy Reading’ photo which won honor in

Oman was clicked in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.Ali has traveled extensively in France, UK, Germany, Austria, Australia, India, Malaysia, Oman, Saudi Arabia and

the UAe to capture several magnificent photos from around the globe. He started practicing photography 6 years ago and prefers to capture culture, architecture and landscapes.“Photography is the story I fail to put into words, It teaches me how to communicate with people, enjoying the different cultures and making good friends locally and regionally” says Ali.Currently he is studying an online Diploma in Photography from the UK and his next goal is to obtain ‘FIAP artist’ distinction which is awarded by the International Federation of Photographic Art (FIAP). Ali is very happy to receive words of appreciations from photographers all across the gulf and Arabian Region and he wishes to promote his country and the company to a global level through his photographs.

Ali Al Lawati

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