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Aker Solutions
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Face value
Corporate responsibility
report 2008/2009
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Aker Solutions
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“I am committed to the
values that Aker Solutions
stands for. As an engineer,
knowing that my company
is socially, environmentally
and ethically engaged
when delivering projects
motivates me – even more
than my pride in our great
technical achievements.
”
Face value
Violaine Guehl
Process engineer
Aker Solutions
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Aker Solutions
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We are a USD 8 billion company,
employing over 26 000 people in nearly
30 countries. We help provide and
process the sustainable energy and
natural resources that people need
to prosper.
Finding environmentally and socially
responsible ways to meet the world’s
energy needs has world scale impact –
politically, ethically and environmentally.
Our contribution to that impact is
reliant on each and every one of us,
every day, everywhere, taking personal
responsibility and caring for people,
for the environment, for integrity and
for our communities.
We are the sum of our actions –
that is our face value.
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Aker Solutions
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Aker Solutions
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“Taking personal responsibility for the
people and environments we influence
is crucial to our future.
We focus on addressing the challenges
of entering new markets and on creating
environmentally sound solutions. We
believe that incorporating this focus into
our daily work lets us make a genuine
difference, ensuring our effectiveness
as a partner in sustainability.
This corporate responsibility report
communicates some of the challenges
we face, results we have achieved and
our ambitions for the future.
”
Face value
Simen Lieungh
President & CEO
Aker Solutions ASA
People
Environment
Integrity
Community
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Contents
8–9
Company overview
10–13
Values driven business
14–17
From principles to practice
18–27
People
28–37
Environment
38–43
Integrity
44–49
Community
Acknowledgements
Photography
Pål Laukli
Art direction
and design
Dinamo Design
Production
Otto Stenersen
Copyright and legal notice
Copyright in all published
material including photographs,
drawings and images in this
publication remains vested in
Aker Solutions and third party
contributors to this publication
as appropriate. Accordingly,
neither the whole nor any part
of this publication can be
reproduced in any form without
express prior permission.
Articles and opinions appearing
in this publication do not
necessarily represent the
views of Aker Solutions. While
all steps have been taken to
ensure the accuracy of the
published contents, Aker
Solutions does not accept any
responsibility for any errors
or resulting loss or damage
whatsoever caused and readers
have the responsibility to
thoroughly check these aspects
for themselves. Enquiries about
reproduction of content from
this publication should be
directed to Aker Solutions ASA.
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Aker Solutions
Face value
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Aker Solutions
Face value
Aker Solutions delivers engineering and construction
services, technology products and integrated solutions to
the oil & gas, refining & chemicals, mining & metals and
power generation industries. We have annual revenues
of approximately NOK 58 billion and directly employ
approximately 26 000 people in around 30 countries.
Aker Solutions is part of Aker, a group of companies
with activities in various sectors and markets. The Aker
companies share a common set of values and a long
tradition of industrial innovation.
Energy development
and services
Process and
construction
Products and
technologies
Subsea
A global provider of
turnkey engineering and
construction solutions for
new builds, maintenance
and modifications for
the upstream oil and
gas industry. We deliver
the full value chain from
concept and feasibility
studies, front-end design
and detailed engineering
through procurement,
project management,
fabrication and hook-up to
installation, maintenance
and modifications. We
focus on developing new
oil and gas production
facilities offshore and on
land, as well as lifecycle
services for the operational
phase of such installations.
A global provider of
management, design and
construction of major
projects across refining,
petrochemical processing
and biorefinery, mining and
metals, liquefied natural
gas (LNG), gas- and coalfired power generation,
acid plants, nuclear cleanup services and water
treatment. We provide the
full lifecycle of services –
from initial concept through
technology development,
process technology
application, design,
procurement, construction
and commissioning to
operations, maintenance,
modification and
decommissioning.
A global provider of
specialised products and
services to the upstream oil
and gas industry, based on
proprietary technology and
know-how. Key deliverables
include advanced drilling
equipment, systems and
risers, upstream processing
technology and mooring
systems, as well as loading
and offloading technology.
A global provider across
the value chain of
subsea and sub-surface
technologies, solutions
and services. Our offerings
cover all phases of the
life of field, from concept
screening and design
through manufacturing
and commissioning to
operational support and
maintenance services.
Our ability as a provider of
subsea production systems
is backed by an extensive
portfolio of additional
capabilities such as well
services, marine operations
including installation, and
geological services. Our
capabilities are available
for new and existing
fields either as individual
products and services or as
complete EPCI deliveries.
Company
overview
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Aker Solutions
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Vision and values
In any organisation, values
are essential for building
trust – in each other, in our
partners, in our customers
and with society.
All the Aker companies share
a common set of values – the
compass that guides our
policies, our operations and
ultimately, our behaviour.
HSE mindset
Customer drive
Delivering results
We take personal responsibility
for HSE because we care
Building customer trust is key
to our busines
We deliver consistently and
strive to beat our goals
All incidents can be prevented. We
strive continuously for zero accidents
to personnel, material and non-material
assets.
After all, without customer trust and
satisfaction, the rest doesn’t matter.
Good customer references build
our reputation – and the only way
to achieve this is by consistent
and predictable performance. Our
customers will recognise us for our
global execution excellence. We
find new ways, always linked to real
customer needs and business priorities.
When doing a job, we understand both
the risks and the opportunities involved
and know how to manage them. We
take pride in delivering as we promise.
We focus on employee health and
on continuously improving the work
environment.
We conduct our operations through
efficient use of materials and energy,
with minimum waste and damage to
the environment.
We design products and services to
have no undue environmental impact, to
be safe and to be efficient in consuming
energy and natural resources. We seek
to ensure that our products can be
recycled or disposed of safely.
“We take personal responsibility for
HSE because we care about people,
the environment and our company.”
Just Care™
Making money creates new
opportunities and the resources for
going forward, both for us and for our
customers and partners. Commercial
edge benefits us all.
We reward performance – what you
achieve; and alignment with our values
– how you behave.
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Our vision is to be the preferred
partner for solutions in the
energy and process industries
through living our values.
HSE mindset
We take personal
responsibility for
HSE because
we care
People
and teams
All our major
achievements are
team efforts
Open and
direct dialogue
We encourage
early and honest
communication
Our vision
to be the preferred
partner for solutions
in the energy and
process industries
through...
Hands-on
management
We know our
business and get
things done
Customer
drive
Building customer
trust is key to our
business
Delivering
results
We deliver
consistently and
strive to beat our
goals
Hands-on management
Open and direct dialogue
People and teams
We know our business and get
things done
We encourage early and honest
communication
All our major achievements
are team efforts
Once decisions are made we combine
all our efforts and focus all our energies
on execution.
We listen hard and talk straight: no
sugar coating, no filters.
In the end, it comes down to the
talent and motivation of you and me.
Delivering strong results is impossible
without a highly capable workforce.
We learn on the job, through challenging
tasks, coaching and training.
We are accountable and solutionsoriented, focusing on the right details
at the right time. We follow through and
ensure accountability.
We believe in empowering people close
to the action to take responsibility.
Hands-on does not mean hands-in.
We stimulate entrepreneurship and
challenge bureaucracy, complicated
hierarchies and ‘silo’ mentalities. We are
a single company.
We value early, accurate and reliable
communication – after all, the first
problem we encounter is usually the
easiest one to cope with.
We challenge each other. The best
decisions are made when different
opinions and different cultures meet in
open and direct dialogue.
We expect the highest standards of
ethical behaviour and integrity – from
all of us, everywhere.
Development of people and teams in
our company has one purpose – to
create a foundation for long-term
sustainable value creation through
efficient project execution and a sound
business operation.
We respect and encourage diversity and
build strong, energised and effective
teams – and we have fun together,
making us even better.
Our goal is to be the preferred employer
in our industry.
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Environment
“Our values and the importance we give
them must be reflected throughout our
organisation and in every aspect of how
we do business, every day. To see the
benefit of our values in operation, it is
essential that they are part of our
processes.
We are committed to high ethical
standards, operational integrity, and
safe and secure execution. Our policy
system and our company-wide expectations for open and direct dialogue are
the basis for this commitment. This is
supported by efforts to build awareness
of our corporate responsibility (CR)
principles, train our people and teams,
monitor our performance and continually
strengthen our CR leadership.
”
Face value
Niels Didrich Buch
Chief of staff &
executive vice
president
Aker Solutions
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From principles
to practice
Since 1841, the Aker group of
companies has demonstrated
the fundamental assets of
continuous innovation and
industrial development – our
trademark for more than
160 years.
Through hard work, improvement and a values driven
mindset, we all contribute to
building sustainable and high
performing businesses. In this
way, we reinforce and expand
the company’s foundation
for our owners and our
successors.
Are we living our values?
Our values have become an integral part of
our people processes, fundamental to our
core People Policy.
Aker Solutions’ common global recruitment
process includes an assessment of all potential
employees based on our values. Each candidate
is given the opportunity to describe instances
where they have performed positively in situations
reflecting each value. These experiences directly
influence hiring decisions.
The importance of our values continues throughout
each individual’s career with us. Our performance
management and reward processes include
assessments of individuals’ behaviour measured
explicitly against our values. Our leadership
development programmes reinforce the specific
requirements we place on each of our leaders – to
act as role models through living our values, and
to foster and promote a working environment that
embraces those values.
To assess how we, as a complete organisation,
perform against our values, and to map awareness,
understanding and implementation of our values,
we regularly conduct the Aker Solutions
People Survey.
The survey provides the basis for systematic
improvement efforts in our business units,
including in strategy and training programmes.
It is the leading edge in the further development
of all our processes.
One section of the survey measures how well
employees understand and adhere to our values
in their everyday activities. The results from our
most recent survey in 2007 show, in a continuing
trend of improvement, that our ongoing efforts
are successful and our people see that our
commitment to each and every one of our values
is improving across the board.
At the beginning of 2008, Aker Solutions went
through a major global re-branding process. To
all our customers, partners, employees and other
stakeholders we affirmed that, while some things
would change, others would not, including our
commitment to our customers – and our values.
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Aker Solutions
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Our corporate
responsibility principles
Caring about
people
Caring about
environment
Caring about
integrity
Caring about
community
A competent and motivated
workforce, driving toward
the same goals, is vital to our
success. With thousands of
employees around the world
representing many cultures,
religions and ethnic groups,
our focus is to help each
individual employee realise
his or her potential and look
after his or her own health
and safety. All our efforts are
guided by a commitment to
protecting the human rights
of our employees and of the
stakeholders we influence.
The environment depends
on companies like ours to
contribute to its positive
development. We therefore
work to minimise negative
impact on the environment
by continuously developing
technologies, practices
and business opportunities
compatible with sustainable
development.
We depend on a reliable,
predictable business
environment. We therefore
strive to maintain high
ethical standards.
We build a culture that
values honesty, integrity
and transparency, and
we encourage the same
behaviour among
our partners.
As a large company, we
are a significant part of the
societies in which we operate
both locally and globally.
We believe in playing our
part in the community
through investing in the
building of a healthy,
safe and stable society.
Our policy system
Our policy system consists of 25 policies
ranging from governance and business ethics
to information security. Contained within each
policy is a set of related standards and tools.
The policies are our mechanism for resolving
the daily dilemmas we face when entering
new markets, collaborating with partners and
developing and delivering products and services.
Our policies are mandatory and apply to all our
units, including – to the extent we can enforce
application – joint ventures, partnerships and
companies in which we have a participating
interest. In all cases we comply with local
statutory laws and regulations.
Should a policy of ours conflict with such local
statutory laws or regulations, the latter prevails.
In all instances however, we will communicate our
values and principles to customers, suppliers and
relevant authorities.
Our policy system is subject to annual review,
allowing for changes and additions.
Corporate responsibility is integrated into our
policy system. This means that rather than being
a separate document, each policy has elements of
corporate responsibility contained within it.
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Communication
and implementation
We are committed to increasing awareness
of our corporate responsibility principles and
related policies within our organisation.
Every year each of our business units conducts
a control self-assessment (CSA) to certify
compliance with our corporate governance
principles and other policies. The CSA process is
administered by our corporate risk management
department in cooperation with our business
managers. In 2008, the structure and content of
these assessments have been reviewed and further
developed with special emphasis on the social
elements of corporate responsibility.
Corporate risk management also drives risk
compliance reviews which are part of each
business unit’s monthly reporting.
To build corporate responsibility awareness within
the organisation, we have developed eLearning
programmes covering business ethics (including
dilemma training), as well as environmental
awareness. Both programmes have been rolled
out in 2008.
Our business leadership programme (BLP)
contains a module on business ethics and
dilemma training. In the programme our
developing and future leaders cover ethical
dilemmas in considerable depth.
Our 2009 operating managers’ conference (OMC),
attended by 200 of our line managers from around
the world, features a corporate responsibility
workshop. A version of this workshop is also being
tailored for delivery to other managers across the
organisation. We have stakeholder forums
including non-governmental organisations (NGOs),
employees and leaders.
In 2008, Aker Solutions became a member of the
UN Global Compact. Membership opens up global
and local opportunities to dialogue and collaborate
with other businesses, NGOs, labour organisations,
and governments on critical issues. It also provides
the opportunity to exchange experiences and good
practices, inspiring practical solutions and
strategies to challenging problems.
Action plan
Area
Target 2006/2007
Status
Target 2008/2009
Status
Corporate values
Review and improve
integration of values in all
Aker Solutions programmes
Achieved
Integration of our values
in additional programmes
In progress
Implement new People Survey
Achieved
Address new goals for values
awareness based on results
of People Survey
In progress
Integrate CR principles into
Aker Solutions policies
Achieved
Include CR principles as part
of annual policy update
Achieved
Issue a 2008 version
of CR report in tandem
with Annual Report 2007
Due to name change
and brand launch,
production of report
delayed until 4th
quarter
Refine/update extract
of CR principles
Successful
integration of CR
principles into Policy
System superceded
need for an extract
Update and improve dilemma
training in relevant leadership
development programmes
Materials in place,
delivery ongoing
Establish forums for regular
stakeholder contact
Achieved
Introduce employee code of
conduct
In progress
Consolidate and reinforce
business environment and
partner risk assessment
processes
In progress
CR principles
Develop eLearning programme
for CR principles
Achieved
Incorporate CR principles into
People Survey
Achieved
Stakeholder dialogue
One-on-one sessions
held with four NGOs
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Our history, our values and international
norms such as the UN Global Compact,
the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and
the OECD guidelines, are the basis of our
corporate responsibility principles.We
are committed to continually improving
our performance against them.
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People
“We are a company driven by our people
and by our shared values. Our challenge
is to find a balance between bringing
our way of doing business into new and
developing markets – and maintaining
a healthy respect for their cultures.
”
People
Face value
Per Harald Kongelf
Executive vice
president
Aker Solutions
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Face value
People
A competent and motivated
workforce, driving toward
shared goals, is vital to
our success.
With thousands of employees
around the world from many
cultures, religions and ethnic
groups, our focus is to enable
each employee to realise his
or her potential and look after
his or her own health and
safety.
In 2008, Aker Solutions signed
a global framework agreement
with the Norwegian United
Federation of Trades Unions
and the International Metalworkers Federation, in which
the parties pledge to work
towards the development of
good working relations in
companies that are part of Aker.
In the agreement, Aker has
committed to “respect basic
human and trade union rights
All our efforts are guided by a
in the community, acknowledgcommitment to protecting the
ing the fundamental principles
human rights of our employees
of human rights as defined in
and of the stakeholders
the Universal Declaration of
we influence.
Human Rights, the ILO
Declaration on Fundamental
Principles and Rights at Work,
and the OECD guidelines on
Multinational Companies.”
Health and safety
Regretfully, a serious incident in 2007 led to
a fatality for one of our colleagues. He died in
hospital several months after the incident, in
2008. This is a tragic reminder of how
important it is for us to maintain our daily
focus on health and safety.
HSE Policy
We believe that all incidents can be prevented.
Our HSE Policy states that:
• We strive continuously for zero harm to
personnel, material and non-material assets
• We focus on employee health and on
continuously improving the work environment
• We require every employee to take personal
responsibility for HSE by focusing on their
own behaviour
An overall improvement in our health and safety
performance over the past few years has made
our company a safer place to work. This result is
attributed to the ever-increasing number of our
people being trained in HSE awareness and best
practices. This is fundamental to the continuing
development of our Just Care™ culture.
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People
Driven by care
Since its inception in 2005, our Just Care™
programme has helped engage employees across
the world through a simple message: we take
personal responsibility for HSE based on caring
for people, our environment and our company.
By considering health, safety and environmental
issues in all our activities – in offices, on
construction sites, offshore or at home – we
reinforce the right attitudes and achieve better
HSE and business results.
Through extensive communication, a range of
training programmes and – most importantly –
the examples set by people from management to
the shop floor, our HSE message reaches every
corner of the organisation.
Just Rules
In January 2008 we rolled out Just Rules, a
company-wide minimum HSE standard for specific
work operations with the objective of significantly
reducing serious incidents.
During routine operations people have been
seriously injured, sometimes fatally, because the
appropriate rules were missing, not understood,
or simply not followed. From experience, we know
that particular types of activity account for the
majority of serious incidents in our work. For these
activities, we have made specific rules to prevent
injury or harm. These are Aker Solutions’ Just
Rules, part of our Just Care™ programme. The
Just Rules videos and brochure are designed to
make the most important rules clear to all.
Adherence is mandatory and the rules are a
minimum standard.
By the end of August 2008, Just Rules had been
successfully rolled out to more than 75 percent
of our employees. Going forward, the goal is to
reach all employees by year end 2008.
Along with Just Rules, our broader focus on
serious incidents is being supported by an
improved process for sharing experience and
best practice taken from such incidents.
“Refusing to operate in these environ-
ments means refusing any opportunity
to have a positive influence. At the same
time, being too pragmatic does nothing
to encourage development.
”
HSE leadership programme
More than 2 100 of our leaders graduated from
our HSE leadership programme by September
2008. This programme is key to the ongoing
development of our HSE culture, enabling our
leaders to be more effective role models, driving
further HSE improvements. The programme
continues, with ambitious goals for 2009.
HSE eLearning
To effectively deliver important HSE messages
we have developed our own HSE eLearning
programmes. More than 49 000 individual Just
Care™, stress management , environment, office
HSE and HSE risk assessment eLearning modules
have been completed to date. Additional training
and awareness-raising activities take place on
every worksite.
HSE operating system
Using our HSE operating system we set clear
HSE expectations and audit the organisation’s
performance against them. The gaps identified are
then closed in a continual improvement process.
Leading indicators
Through a set of leading indicators we measure
the key activities that lead to improved HSE
performance. These indicators range from nearmiss reporting and risk observations to task risk
analyses, inspections and HSE training.
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People
Just Care™ Awards
To recognise and reinforce outstanding
achievements, our annual Just Care™ Awards
include specific awards for achievements in
health and in safety, as well as an award for
the best overall HSE achievement.
The President’s HSE Award 2007
The Adriatic LNG Terminal Project received
the President’s HSE award for their high
performance teamwork and excellent focus
on HSE. Spanning 12 million worked hours
at multiple sites in Spain and South Korea,
they achieved their overall HSE objective
– to improve the HSE performance of
subcontractors and to complete projects
without anyone being seriously injured.
Lost time injuries
(per million hours1)
The Health Award 2007
Aker Solutions in Pusnes received the Health
award for their application of the “active
workplace” concept, organising physical
activities for their employees at work and at
home. They had over 80 percent participation,
a significantly improved preferred employer
score in the people survey and several
examples of positive profiling in the media.
The Safety Award 2007
Aker Solutions’ operations in Malaysia received
the Safety award for the construction of their
new manufacturing centre. The centre was
completed in a record time of 18 months
with an excitingly multi-cultural workforce,
application of efficient safety tools and
methods, and no lost time incidents.
Total recordable injuries
(per million hours1)
8
2.5
Sick leave
(% of worked hours2)
4
7
2.0
3.5
6
1.5
3
5
1.0
2.5
4
0.5
2
3
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 YTD
1
Includes subcontractors
2
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 YTD
Excludes subcontractors
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 YTD
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People
Diversity
We are enriched by the diversity that comes
from being a global organisation. Equal
opportunity is provided to all potential and
current employees regardless of race, colour,
religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual
orientation or disability.
This means that we reward good performance
with salary levels determined solely by scope
of responsibility, job content, competence and
performance.
Equal opportunity is the responsibility of every
one of our managers and we have developed
appropriate procedures for them to follow in each
of our markets. In some markets, cultural, religious
or legal restrictions may conflict with our diversity
approach. In such cases the local regulations
prevail, though we will strive to promote equal
opportunity and diversity so far as we are able.
As of 31 December 2007, Aker Solutions had a
total workforce of 32 717 people, including 24 427
direct employees and 8 290 on contract. Of its own
personnel, 47.3 percent worked in Norway, 12.9
percent in other parts of Europe, 27.2 percent in
the Americas, 12 percent in Asia and 0.6 percent
in Africa and the Middle East. Workforce turnover
in 2007 averaged 10.4 percent, down 0.3 percent
from 2006. The company successfully recruited
4 040 people in 2007.
37 percent of our employees are skilled workers/
operators, and 63 percent are administrative.
Women constitute 3 percent of the skilled workers/
operators and 24 percent of the administrative
personnel. At year end 2007, there were no
women in company management. Three of the
shareholder-elected members, or 50 percent, of
Aker Solutions’ Board of Directors are women.
None of the employee-elected directors are women.
“Sustainable development is critical
to everyone’s future and to our
business success.
”
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People
“We must take action to address risks
and to avoid security and human rights
violations, while continuing to use local
contractors and suppliers in ways that
spread economic wealth without
increasing conflict.
”
Local content
Aker Solutions is committed to building on
local capabilities in, and sharing our technology
with, the markets we enter. We draw on local
resources to create jobs, customise product
strategies, and work with local governments.
We have been increasing our capacity in the Asia
Pacific region. Currently we employ approximately
4 000 people in the region, including around 600
located in Malaysia. Of those 600, most work at
the high-tech manufacturing centre we established
in 2007. Nearly 100 of the engineers and
technicians employed at the centre at Port Klang
were trained at our Norwegian and British subsea
facilities. The centre has also created opportunities
for local vendors who supply the centre with
components and services.
Our subsea operations in Brazil have approximately 500 people in an almost exclusively
Brazilian workforce. 150 of those were hired in
the 12 months to mid-2008 and our plans for
growth in the region are extensive. We expect
to fill an additional 130 vacancies by the end
of 2009.
In Angola we have developed West Africa’s
most advanced subsea base. To promote the
effective sharing of our know-how in the region,
an active training programme has brought
employees from the region to be trained at
other Aker Solutions facilities.
We are making similar efforts with local
employees in several other countries.
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People
Flexible working
Harassment
Our People Policy calls for a healthy balance
between work and leisure. Imbalances can
demotivate, create stress, lack of focus,
reduced effectiveness and burnout, and can
cause high achievers to perform below
optimum levels – or even to leave the company.
Everyone has the right to a safe and secure
work place, free of any form of harassment.
We are committed to providing a work
environment that fosters mutual employee
respect. Any form of harassment by or
toward employees, contractors, suppliers
or customers is prohibited.
We actively encourage practices that ensure
healthy work patterns for the benefit of both
employees and the company and which, as a
minimum, comply with local legislation. Examples
include staggered hours, flexitime, part-time
working, working from home and a compressed
working week.
Individuals who have been subjected to
harassment are encouraged to immediately report
the incident to their supervisor, higher management
or their human resources contact. All complaints
are promptly and thoroughly investigated and are
treated as confidential.
Developing people
People and teams is one of our values.
Our success as a company depends on
developing the capabilities, competence,
performance and innovation of our people.
The Aker Academy is a key driver for accelerating
development within Aker Solutions. All Academy
programmes are designed to develop leadership
and core competences. Development tracks
include programmes to help people make
transitions from one leadership level to the next.
eLearning
Today Aker Solutions’ eLearning portal provides
our people worldwide with programmes on the
environment, information security, risk
assessment, project management, recruitment,
stress management, travel safety and corporate
responsibility. As of October 2008, the portal has
enrolled more than 25 000 “eLearners” and
successfully delivered more than 50 000 courses.
Trainee programmes
The Aker Solutions international trainee programme
The Academy delivers programmes on leadership,
recruits trainees from emerging markets around the
HSE, risk management, project management, the
world. Over the course of the two year programme,
Aker Solutions Project Execution Model™ (PEM™),
each trainee is exposed to different aspects of
supply management, commercial awareness and
our business.
senior project management, as well as additional
In addition to developing our own people, we strive
courses in cooperation with leading universities.
to inspire students to study engineering sciences
through apprenticeships, local trainee programmes
and collaborations with educational establishments.
26
Face value
People
Human rights
Our goal is to treat every employee with
respect and dignity. We strive to conduct
business in line with fundamental human rights
norms as outlined in the Universal Declaration
on Human Rights.
In every instance we adhere to policies that
address compliance with all laws pertaining
to freedom of association, non-discrimination,
privacy, collective bargaining, compulsory and
child labour, immigration, wages and hours,
as stated in our People Policy. Beyond legal
compliance, we strive to create a positive
environment for everyone we employ, wherever
our business is conducted. For example, on our
projects contractors are required to observe the
essential elements of our People and HSE policies.
In our work around the world, we regularly face
dilemmas. We attempt to solve them in ways
that meet our ethical, moral and environmental
responsibilities. In countries with challenging
environments, we seek to become informed, to
understand how we can be a positive influence,
and to improve the environment where possible
through engagement with the government and
civil society.
“Success demands unassuming,
honest and open dialogue.
”
27
Face value
People
Action plan 2008/2009
Area
Target 2006/2007
Status
Target 2008/2009
Status
Health
& safety
HSE leadership programme
to 1 200 leaders
Achieved
HSE leadership programme to
a further 600 leaders
700+ have
participated to date
Roll out additional HSE
eLearning modules
Achieved.
Stress
management
and HSE risk
assessment
rolled out
Establish cultural
awareness training
In progress
Establish Just Share, improved
processes and tools for capturing,
organising and sharing
HSE information
TBD
Roll out the new personnel security
standard and associated tools
TBD
Roll out additional HSE
eLearning modules
Achieved. Travel
health, safety &
security, office HSE
and security
rolled out
Increase focus on serious
incidents. Roll out Just Rules to
all employees
Just Rules rolled
out to over 75% of
employees by
August 2008
Update and implement global
induction eLearning programme
In progress
Achieve knowledge capture from
75 percent of the workforce
In progress
Developing
people
Expansion of Aker Academy
Achieved
Implementation of global
eLearning induction
programme
Delayed due to
company name
change
Aker Solutions international
trainee programme
Achieved
Analyse and act on results of the
2007 People Survey
In progress
Continue development
of people knowledge
& competence database
Achieved
Broaden availability of specialist
and high quality development
resources (eg Harvard
management training)
In progress
Flexible
working
Develop flexible working
programme
Senior life-phase
programme
completed
for majority
workforce
Further development of flexible
working programmes
In progress
NGO
dialogue
Establish a mechanism for
dialogue with NGOs
Achieved
Become an active participant in
Red Cross Partner forum
Achieved
Local
content
Establish formal structure for
competence exchange in new
markets
Achieved
Further expand local content
development to additional markets
In progress.
Focus currently on
Brazil and Malaysia
28
Aker Solutions
Face value
29
“Engineering and the environment
are inextricably linked. Our challenge
is to deliver innovative, value-adding
solutions for our customers and our
owners in a way that supports a
sustainable future.
”
Environment
Face value
Jarle Tautra
Executive vice
president
Aker Solutions
30
Face value
Environment
Our environmental policy
(part of our HSE policy)
states that we conduct our
operations with minimum
damage to the environment
and that we design products
and services to have no undue
environmental impact.
We accomplish this through
innovative environmental
solutions and technologies,
deliveries to new energy
sectors; and an environmental
focus in our own operations.
Product innovation
and lifecycle
Many of the regions we focus on are
environmentally sensitive – the Barents and
Caspian seas, the North Atlantic, Canada,
Sakhalin and eastern Russia – and serve to
drive our innovation in sustainable solutions.
We design products and services to have no
undue environmental impact, to be safe and
to be efficient in consuming energy and
natural resources.
It is important to develop new technologies. It
is also important to combine existing technologies
in smarter and more efficient ways. Our product
innovation goes further and includes the full life
cycle – not just technology but product design,
manufacture, operation and decommissioning.
An example of our continual effort to improve
the environmental performance of our products
is the Aker H-6e rig. The Aker H-6e is the world’s
most advanced drilling rig – designed to cope
with extreme environments such as the Arctic,
while meeting the world’s strictest safety and
environmental standards.
31
Face value
Environment
“In real terms, we must minimise our
environmental footprint while enabling
new builds of power plants and
processing facilities, enabling deeper
subsea operations and enabling oil and
gas production in ever more sensitive
Arctic environments.
”
New energy sectors
Climate change has the potential to
dramatically alter our environment. The
relentless pressures of globalisation, worldwide
urbanisation, manufacturing and population
growth all demand a renewed commitment to
clean energy and environmental solutions.
The challenges of ensuring a sound energy
future are immense, and so are the opportunities.
Innovation, fostered by visionary entrepreneurship
and investment, can lead the way to addressing
the world’s energy and environmental challenges,
as it spurs new technologies and entire new
industries into being.
Aker Solutions is an innovator. We will be part of
meeting the future energy challenge through value
creation in new energy sectors and through new
environmental solutions. Already we are involved
in subsea developments that reduce the need
for surface installations, and in the capture and
storage of carbon dioxide from power plants. We
will continuously work on exploring these new
market opportunities.
32
Face value
Environment
Environmental focus
in our own operations
We transform raw materials into finished
products. During this process, resources
including energy, water and chemicals are
consumed. Waste materials and emissions
are created as by-products.
We continuously endeavour to achieve cleaner,
increasingly resource-efficient and cost-effective
manufacturing and production processes. To
achieve these, the same values, methods and
principles, as well as our global quality and
environmental standards, are applied in all our
operations worldwide.
Awareness is crucial for involvement and
commitment. We are continuously working to
broaden and develop our people’s environmental
awareness through training and communication
campaigns.
Some of our current initiatives are:
• Environmental eLearning
• Environmental initiatives (including “green days”,
paper recycling and waster water reduction)
• Senior management workshops
• ISO 14001 environmental management
system certifications for more and more of
our operations
• New and improved environmental key
performance indicators measuring both footprint
and improvement indicators
• Further development of video conferencing
facilities to reduce travel needs
In line with the ambitions expressed in our
2006/2007 report, we have from 1 January 2008
implemented new and improved environmental key
performance indicators (KPIs) related to our own
operations. These are mandatory throughout the
company and are a minimum reporting standard.
Through the implementation of these KPIs we
aim to ensure higher quality in our reported data
and to step up our focus on activities that lead to
improvements.
The selection and specification of our new KPIs
were based on industry benchmarking and studies
of applicable standards in this area. Through
this work, many of the challenges of applying
measurements in this area have become clearer,
and yet many aspects of this reporting have not
yet achieved universal acceptance, requiring local
interpretation and adaptation. One such aspect is
the definition of boundaries for the reporting,
in particular across the value chain.
In addition to indicators that vary in direct relation
to the volumes and types of work we undertake,
we have chosen some that are ‘normalised’. With
these we hope to achieve better measurement and
guidance for our internal improvement efforts.
33
Face value
Environment
Key performance indicators first half of 2008
Energy
CO²
Waste
Energy use
CO ² emissions
Waste
Total amount
of energy purchased
for consumption,
reported by type
Emissions calculated
from energy use, by
type, using established
emission factors
Total amount
of waste
from own
operations
321 134
74 457
19 370
Energy
intensity
CO² emission
intensity
Recycled waste
Hazardous waste
Energy use relative
to volume of work
Emissions relative
to volume of work
Part of waste sent
for recycling
Amount of waste
classified as hazardous
7 367
1 708
13 824
360
MWH
MWH per million
worked hours
tonnes
tonnes per million
worked hours
tonnes
tonnes
Waste recycling
factor
Recycled waste as
percentage of total
71%
tonnes
34
Face value
Environment
Examples of our work
in the three focus areas:
Advanced rigs
Aker Solutions designed the Aker H-6e
semisubmersible unit. It is the world’s most
advanced drilling rig. The “e” stands for
“extreme”.
In 2006, there was talk of designing a floating
drilling rig suitable for use in Arctic regions and
water depths up to 3 000 metres with minimal
impact on the sensitive Arctic environment. The
result is the Aker H-6e. This rig is designed to
operate year-round in extreme environments
across the spectrum, from the Barents Sea
to West Africa. It meets the world’s strictest
safety and environmental standards with
zero harmful discharges to the sea and low
emissions to the air. It is equipped to deal with
icebergs, and has dual-purpose pumps for fire
fighting and ballast seawater handling.
Two Aker H-6e rigs, the Aker Spitsbergen and
Aker Barents, will be delivered in February 2009
and in the second quarter of 2009, respectively.
Next generation biofuels
In the quest to reduce global carbon
emissions and increase use of renewable
fuels, the biofuels industry is striving to find
next generation technologies that will deliver
improved efficiency and performance.
BioCnergy was recently awarded a world scale
bioethanol project by Vivergo Fuels Limited.
Aker Solutions’ capability in plant design and
project planning means value for operators
whose facilities will have to accommodate
change and development in the future.
BioCnergy Europa BV, a joint venture between
Aker Solutions and Praj Industries of India –
a leader in biofuels technology for over two
decades – focuses on addressing ethanol and
biodiesel opportunities in Europe.
35
Face value
Environment
“By delivering technological improve-
ments, sharing knowledge with our
stakeholders and efficiently using
energy and material resources in our
own operations, we can make a
difference – we can minimise our
negative impact on the environment
while contributing to its positive
development.
”
Reducing sulphur emmissions
Aker Solutions’ patented sulphate removal
system (SRS™) offers chloralkali plants
operating cost savings and environmental
benefits when compared to conventional
methods for sulphate control. Using nanofiltration, SRS™ technology removes sulphate
and can reduce direct purge volumes by as
much as 95 percent. It can also eliminate the
handling of toxic barium compounds and
disposal of sulphate-containing solid waste.
Reducing ammonia emissions
In the UK, Aker Solutions has been engaged on
an engineering, procurement and construction
management (EPCM) basis to modify GrowHow
UK Limited’s ammonium nitrate prilling plant
(Nitram 3) at their Portrack facility in North East
England. The project will significantly reduce
the ammonia and ammonium nitrate effluent
loads, whilst increasing production capacity.
Nitram 3 manufactures fertilizer for sale into
the UK agricultural market and, as part of an
ongoing IPPC (Integrated Pollution Prevention
and Control) improvement programme,
GrowHow is making a significant investment
in order to reduce effluent emissions into
the River Tees and reduce fume and dust
emissions to the atmosphere.
36
Face value
Environment
“We are in industries that contribute
to a common environmental challenge.
We aim to be part of the solution in
those industries.
”
CO² capture
Aker ASA and Aker Solutions have established
the company Aker Clean Carbon to accelerate
the commercialisation of CO2 capture technology. Aker Solutions will provide the technology,
engineering and project management expertise
for developments supported by Aker’s industrial
and financial strength. Aker Clean Carbon’s
core CO2 capture technology was originally
developed by Aker Solutions.
Aker Solutions and Aker Clean Carbon are
also part of the consortium, led by Scottish
Power, which recently qualified as an entrant
to the UK government’s competition to develop
the UK’s first commercial scale carbon capture
and storage (CCS) project.
Nuclear safety
Within the British nuclear industry, Aker
Solutions provides engineering services to
strengthen safety and environmental protection.
Our activities are centred around remediation,
decommissioning and clean up.
We are currently engaged on a number of
projects including the Magnox Electric Limited
project where our scope is to design, build and
install a plant for the retrieval and encapsulation
of wet intermediate level wastes (ILW) at the
Hunterston A Site in West Kilbride, Scotland;
and a joint venture with Atkins and Carillon
(ACKtiv Nuclear) for the decommissioning of
the First Generation Magnox Storage Pond,
located at the Sellafield nuclear licensed site
in the UK. ACKtiv Nuclear is providing systems
for the removal of radioactive sludge and solid
inventory from the facility for subsequent safe
treatment and storage.
37
Face value
Environment
Recovering volatile vapours
Aker Solutions is the main supplier of volatile
organic compounds (VOC) recovery units to the
world’s largest oil vapour capture and recovery
plant at Statoil Hydro’s crude oil terminal in
Mongstad. The new plant captures VOCs in
oil, vapour which previously was released into
the atmosphere when crude oil tankers were
loaded or offloaded. When these vapours mix
with humidity it causes smog, which is not only
dangerous to humans but also damages the
ozone layer. The VOC plant recovers at least
90 percent of the VOC emissions that were
previously released into the air. The gas is
then purified and piped back into the hold as
oil components in liquid form, which reflects
positively on the environment.
Just Care™ Awards 2007
We recognise environment-related achievements in our organisation. Our annual Just
Care™ Awards include a specific award for
environmental excellence.
In 2007, our Offshore Partner business unit
received the environmental award for their
innovative approach to measuring and reducing
their environmental footprint. This included
research, benchmarking and external auditing
with specific attention to energy use and CO²
emissions. Collaboration with other business
units reduced carbon emissions on sites.
Participating in a regional initiative reduced
the business’ negative environmental impact
and led to improved resource efficiency across
the supply chain. Reductions in air travel and
the increased use of online collaboration tools,
video and telephone conferencing
also contributed
Action plan 2008/2009
Area
Target 2006/2007
Status
Target 2008/2009
Status
Environmental
leadership
HSE Leadership programme
to 1 200 leaders
Achieved
600 more leaders at a minimum
2 100 leaders
graduated
Environmental workshop for
Business Area top management
teams
Workshops in
progress
Roll out eLearning to 10 000
employees
6 600 eLearning
sessions completed
Environmental communication
campaign
In progress
Training on
environment
Develop a specific eLearning
module focused on
environment
Achieved
Energy
consumption,
emission and
waste
Develop new environmental
KPIs
Achieved
Include new KPI’s data in monthly
operating reviews
Achieved
Increase share of recycled
waste
In progress
Focus on energy and emission
intensities
In progress
Environmental
certifications
Establish overview and plan
for environmental certifications
Achieved
20 business units ISO 14001
certified
17 business units
ISO 14001 certified
Climate change
Further develop CO capture
²
technology
Merged our
proprietary CO
²
capture
technology with
Aker Clean Carbon
Support further development of
CO capture technology in Aker
²
Clean Carbon
In progress
Sulphate control
Aker Solutions Sulphate
Removal System (SRS™)
offers sulphate control
benefits to chloralkali plants
New target
Further develop SRS™ technology
In progress
38
Aker Solutions
Face value
39
Aker Solutions
Face value
“Discovering oil, gas and minerals in
developing markets can bring growth
and reduce poverty. Expanding our
business into these new markets offers
us new opportunities, but exposes us to
new risks. Our success depends on our
ability to manage those risks.
”
Integrity
Face value
Nils Arne Hatleskog
Executive vice
president
Aker Solutions
40
Face value
Integrity
Business ethics concern the
principles that guide our value
creation and our daily business
decisions.
Our aim is to ensure that we
run our operations in line with
our values, relevant laws and
regulations and society’s
expectations – with integrity.
Aker Solutions is a member
of the UN Global Compact.
We support the ten principles
of the UN Global Compact
with respect to human rights,
labour, environment and anticorruption. Our intent is to
advance those principles
within our sphere of influence.
We strive to conduct our
business in a way that makes
people proud to work with,
and for, our company.
Operating with integrity is
just as important as achieving
business goals.
Business ethics
We are committed to making the UN Global
Compact and its principles part of the strategy,
culture and day-to-day operations of our
company, and to engaging in collaborative
projects which advance the broader
development goals of the United Nations,
particularly the Millennium Development Goals.
Corruption and bribery
We are fundamentally opposed to all forms of
corruption. No employee may offer or accept
illegal or inappropriate monetary gifts or any other
remuneration to achieve business or personal
advantage. Gifts or other remuneration shall not
be accepted if there is reason to believe that their
purpose is to influence business decisions.
Operating in a global environment, often in
developing countries with poor governance
structures, may sometimes make this challenging.
Our guidelines specify what is appropriate conduct.
41
Face value
Integrity
Loyalty and conflicts of interest
All employees are obliged to avoid actual or
perceived conflicts of interest. Involvement in
transactions or business arrangements where
individuals have a particular financial or personal
interest is strictly prohibited. A conflict of interest
arises when an employee is, or is perceived to be,
in a position to influence a decision that may result
in personal gain. Conflicts of interest could involve,
but are not limited to, customers, suppliers,
contractors, present or prospective employees,
competitors or outside business activities.
Our employees are expected to act in a spirit of
openness and loyalty to the company’s interests
at all times.
Third party representation
We use third party representation to conduct
international business in countries or regions
where we have no operating company; where
we have limited experience with local business
practices; or where the local legislation and
business culture require third party representation
and/or formal registration procedures.
The appointment of a new third party representative shall be based on a due diligence review of
the candidate, documenting that the candidate
meets our requirements with respect to financial
solidity, business performance and reputation.
The appointment of a third party representative
must always be in full conformance with our
business ethics, norms and relevant laws.
Every third party representative agreement must
contain a satisfactory specification of the services
covered by the agreement. Fees and commissions
must be at a reasonable level compared with the
services rendered.
“Living up to the high standards we
set for ourselves takes strength and
commitment. We are only as strong as
our weakest link. Our commitment is to
continue developing people and teams
that can address tough business
dilemmas when they arise.
”
Customers and suppliers
When dealing with customers and suppliers, we
seek to work with parties who share our values
and conduct their own business in compliance
with our business ethics.
Competition
We encourage and benefit from fair and open
competition in all markets, national and
international. We are dedicated to complying
with all applicable laws on competition, pricing
and cooperation.
Sensitive share price information
As a publicly listed company, Aker Solutions is
subject to strict rules concerning the handling of
non-public information that may affect the market
price. All employees must comply with the laws on
insider trading and may not use or disseminate
share price-sensitive information, except through
the designated persons and channels.
Political donations and influence
We do not support political parties, either
financially or through paid working time.
42
Face value
Integrity
Implementation
mechanisms
Transparency
Open, clear and consistent communication about
principles, challenges and achievements is a key
instrument to ensure that our business principles
are put into practice.
We seek to achieve this through sound reporting
principles, effective internal communications and
openness to enquiries from employees,
shareholders and other stakeholders.
Reporting improper business practices
We strive to have effective channels for employees
to communicate concerns over improper business
practices, other behaviour or events that may be in
violation of applicable laws or internal guidelines.
If something is unclear, questionable or capable
of raising concern in relation to proper business
practices, employees are obliged to bring the
matter to the attention of the appropriate line
management. If the employee feels that such
reporting does not receive the required attention,
or that the reporting route may be otherwise
compromised, they shall take the report to our
corporate enterprise risk function. This function
consults with internal and external resources and
recommends the necessary course of action.
Integration and communication
To become an integrated part of daily decision
making, it is essential that business ethics are
a part of our management systems and
training programmes.
Our principles, as outlined here, are implemented
through:
• Our Business Ethics Policy
• A proper corporate governance structure
• Other relevant policies (such as how we deal
with agents, joint ventures, etc.)
• Training programmes in leadership, HSE,
risk management and dilemma solving
These codes, policies and programmes apply
across all our operations.
Emerging markets represent an important
part of the future growth of Aker Solutions.
Those markets, often with the complexities of
different cultures, regulatory environments and
governments, represent significant challenges
in doing business.
We recognise that entering new markets requires
more than just gaining a new customer or project
and “setting up shop”. Before entering a new
market or project, we conduct a risk analysis
measuring not just the financial or technical
aspects of the project, but the social aspects
too. This includes a review of the Organisation for
Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
ranking of the new market and health, safety and
environmental assessments of the customer.
We also recognise the importance of preparing
our management teams for the social dilemmas
they might face. Living up to our values and our
Business Ethics Policy requires that we coach our
local managers to operate in these difficult arenas
using the following guidelines:
• Establish good personal relationships
(build trust) and resist all approaches for
questionable activities
• Never establish agency agreements for
illegitimate purposes (bribery, corruption,
improper influence), even at a level considered
“standard” by the market you are in
If extraordinary measures are to be taken due
to threats to life or property, certain criteria must
be considered:
• Whatever decision or agreement made must
be transparent
• Only reasonable remuneration is paid and only
for legitimate services rendered
43
Face value
Integrity
“No matter how many guidelines or
codes we create, integrity is about
making decisions – and standing
by them.
”
Action plan 2007/2008
Area
Target 2006/2007
Status
Target 2008/2009
Status
Code of conduct
Extract code of conduct from
business ethics, people, and
HSE policies – and create a
stand alone policy
In progress
Policy under review; to be
issued by year-end 2008
In progress
Third party
business ethics
Further development of
integrity due diligence for
agents/third parties
Completed with
Annual Policy Review
in fourth quarter
Further development of the
social aspects of our risk
assessment (risk dashboard)
In progress
Further development of the
social aspects of our control
self-assessment (CSA)
process
In progress
Whistle blowing
Improve whistle blowing
mechanism that ensures
reporter’s confidentiality
In progress
To be completed in Q1 2009
TBD
Dialogue with
NGOs
Establish one to one dialogue
with NGOs
Achieved
Join the UN
Global Compact
Achieved
Business
principles
Develop eLearning
programme that incorporates
business principles into
dilemmas
Achieved
Update and improve dilemma
training in relevant leadership
development programmes
Achieved
Develop socio-political
country risk assessment tool
In progress
Emerging markets
44
Aker Solutions
Face value
45
Aker Solutions
Face value
“Our vision is to be the preferred
partner in our industries. To live up to
this vision, it is important that we are
a welcomed presence in the markets
in which we operate.
This involves more than just running
our operations cleanly and safely.
It is also working with local people to
address their concerns and support
their development activities.
”
Community
Face value
Mads Andersen
Executive vice
president
Aker Solutions
46
Face value
Community
Our most important
corporate responsibility is
to provide our products
and services in a socially,
environmentally and ethically
responsible way. However,
corporate responsibility does
not end there.
As a good corporate citizen,
a company also contributes
to the development of society,
locally, nationally or globally,
creating mutually beneficial
or “win-win” situations for
both communities and the
company’s employees,
shareholders and other
stakeholders.
Creating win-win situations
can take many forms, including
corporate support of a not-forprofit organisation, community
projects, or worthwhile statesponsored initiatives.
Community
In this context, corporate support can mean
financial or product donations, sharing of
expertise, volunteering or any combination of the
three. For us, such involvement has a positive
impact on employee morale, creates pride in our
work place, generates interest from potential
employees and attracts partners and customers
that have the same attitudes.
At Aker Solutions we understand that we must
have our own house in order before we look to
create win-win situations in the community. The
diagram on page 47 illustrates the building blocks
of corporate responsibility that we continually
review. Only after the three first aspects –
economic, legal and ethical responsibility – have
been fulfilled can a corporation look at the final
stage: philanthropic responsibility.
Our investments of time, money and resources
have a significant effect on our company as well
as the community. In December 2007 we signed
a three year global partnership agreement with
the Norwegian Red Cross. The agreement has
three pillars: a continuing financial commitment
to help fund the Red Cross’ disaster relief
activities worldwide; an exchange between the
organisations of competence in core areas such
as risk management, project management and
engineering, and of information on humanitarian
situations in various regions; and organised
programmes for local volunteering and safety
training.
In addition to this global programme, Aker
Solutions supports local community programmes
in which its employees participate. On the
following pages we highlight some of the larger,
more long-term community activities we support
around the world.
Each project is reviewed by management before
any commitment is made. This important process
ensures that shareholder money is invested
responsibly, where value is added to the company.
47
Face value
Community
Examples of our work
Global partnership with the
Norwegian Red Cross
Since 2003, Aker Solutions ASA has supported
the Norwegian Red Cross’ disaster relief
activities with an annual donation of
NOK 500 000.
In 2005/6, following consecutive disasters –
the tsunami in South East Asia and Hurricane
Katrina in the US – a significant increase in
donations, paid time off for employees assisting
the Red Cross and private donations of money,
clothes, food and other items from our people
were all activated to support relief efforts.
The collaboration between Aker Solutions
and the Norwegian Red Cross will have an
international impact over time. Partnering with
the Norwegian Red Cross gives Aker Solutions
access to the International Red Cross
organisation, providing global reach for
select programmes.
Specifically, the collaboration with the Red
Cross includes:
• Aker Solutions’ annual financial donation,
part of which is designated specifically to
the Red Cross disaster relief fund
• Access to Red Cross expertise regarding
In parallel with these efforts, a survey among
matters in challenging areas where
employees revealed that the Red Cross is the
Aker Solutions has new projects
preferred partner organisation of Aker Solutions
• A programme for organised volunteering
worldwide when compared with other global
in which our employees can participate
charities.
locally around the world
As part of our continuous efforts to improve
• A forum for Aker Solutions to share its
our performance in corporate responsibility,
expertise – in risk management, project
Aker Solutions signed a strategic three year
organisation, and its many disciplines of
partnership agreement with the Norwegian Red
engineering – with the Red Cross on an
Cross on 19 December 2007. The partnership
as-needed basis
encompasses financial support, exchanges of
expertise between the organisations and
• Access to Red Cross first aid courses
volunteer activities.
and courses on humanitarian law for
Aker Solutions employees
In the first phase, Aker Solutions is working
closely with the Norwegian Red Cross to create
win-win situations in Norway. The second
phase will see the expansion of the
collaboration to our markets around the world.
Philanthropic responsibility
Contribute to the community. Improve the quality of
life. Be a good corporate citizen.
Economic
Legal
Ethical
responsibility responsibility responsibility
Earn money.
Provide a good return
on investment for
your shareholders.
Play by the rules.
Obey the law – it is
society’s codification
of right and wrong.
Avoid harm.
Do what is right,
just and fair.
Through our partnership with the Red Cross
we hope to sharpen our focus on community,
increase our knowledge of social issues and
improve the effectiveness of our contributions
to society worldwide.
Nanhi Kali programme
In India, only three out of ten girls graduate
from elementary school. The Nanhi Kali
programme, found in many places in India, aims
to increase that number. Approximately 50 000
girls are taking part in the programme today.
Aker Solutions supports the Mumbai chapter
of the programme.
The Naandi Foundation vision is to “eradicate
poverty” and to improve quality of life for the
underprivileged. Naandi’s focus areas include:
promoting Child Rights; creating sustainable
livelihood, and providing safe drinking water
and sanitation.
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Community
“Everywhere we work, we seek to employ
local staff at all levels and to offer
training where it is needed. In markets
such as Angola, Brazil and Kazakhstan
more than two-thirds of our workforces
are local – good examples of what we
can do. Using local suppliers is also a
significant part of our community role.
”
Creating a learning environment
With the help of Aker Solutions’ fundraising
efforts, nursery facilities at Beverley School
and Service for Children with Autism in
Stockton-on-Tees in the UK were expanded
to accommodate growing numbers of autistic
children. Aker Solutions’ employee donations
financed a new soft play and sensory
relaxation area that was created for
the children.
ZEN’s reforestation
Aker Solutions in Brazil has made a donation
to the reforestation project at ZEN, the special
business zone in Rio das Ostras where Aker
Solutions has a base. The company donated
170 seedlings, one for each of its employees
in the region.
Solidarity meal
Every day, Aker Solutions’ office in Curitiba,
Brazil, donates an equivalent of 15 meals to
the Holy Land Residents’ Association. Through
a social and economic evaluation, the
Association selects and registers the neediest
in the community. Solidarity meals are provided
to poor, elderly and unemployed people in the
community every day.
A roof for Chile
Eighteen members of Aker Solutions’
Esperanza EPCM project in Chile donated their
personal time and rolled up their sleeves to
participate in constructing temporary basic
housing units for three families who live in one
of the poorest sectors of the metropolitan
region of the country.
The community work initiative called “Un techo
para Chile” – “A roof for Chile” – united project
management team members from both Minera
Esperanza and Aker Solutions. The team of
experienced engineers and project managers
was led by a group of university students who
had built many houses and organised many
volunteers throughout Chile.
A group of Chilean university students created
Un techno para Chile in 1997 to secure
minimum living conditions for low-income
people to break the poverty cycle. This
organisation has built over 24 000 basic
housing units, and recruited more than 18 000
volunteers in Chile.
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Community
“In addition, we support local activities
ranging from clean water projects
to cultural programmes. Our support
is never just philanthropy. It is an
investment. The returns on these
investments range from employee
motivation to strengthening our
attractiveness as an employer and,
ultimately, attaining our preferred
partner vision.
”
Active workplace
At Aker Solutions’ offices in Arendal, Norway,
employees and their families have been
proactive in getting fit and keeping healthy
through a range of programmes: a parent/
child cycling day; team participation in the
Birkebeinerrittet, the longest (and toughest)
mountain bike race in the world; and team
participation in the Norwegian sailing
championships.
All activities were provided by the company
and our collaboration with the organisation
Norwegian Company Sports (Norges
Bedriftsidrett).
The spirit of giving
Hee Rak Won is a social welfare facility in
South Korea accommodating 78 children
aged 4-18 years.
Aker Solutions, along with Othera Ergon at the
Samsung shipyard, has helped these children
by providing donations to renovate the interior
of the facility and acquire new furniture.
Employees at Aker Solutions in South Korea
keep in contact with the children and the
director of the orphanage, so they can
contribute and help these children in the future.
Earthquake relief
A major earthquake, measuring 7.8 on the
Richter scale, occurred in southwest China’s
Sichuan province on 12 May 2008. The
earthquake killed 69 225 people and injured
374 176 more. 18 379 are left missing, while
the total affected population is estimated
at around 46 million.
Aker Solutions people were very proactive in
supporting the relief efforts. An Aker Solutions
(China) steering committee was quickly set
up to support and direct the charity work.
Colleagues around the globe sent dozens of
e-mails and placed phone calls asking how
they could help. Our team in China responded
to each of these requests, doing its best to
facilitate each initiative and encouraging
donations to the Red Cross’ relief efforts.
Employee donations from Aker Solutions
reached 106 000 yuan on 26 May 2008, just two
weeks after the deadly earthquake struck. Our
management in China matched its employees’
donations, totalling an additional USD 30 000.
In addition, the disaster relief fund generated
by our global partnership agreement with the
Norwegian Red Cross was used to assist the
victims of the earthquake.
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Aker Solutions
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Community
“I was proud of my colleagues’ heartfelt
and genuine response to the recent
earthquake in China’s Sichuan Province.
Donations and expressions of support
and concern poured in from around the
globe, showing that we truly care about
the communities where we work.
For me it was a demonstration that
Just Care™ is more than a slogan; it
is a real attitude that we all share, that
translates into real action.
We need to be engaged with the
communities in which we work. Our
efforts not only benefit others, but help
energise ourselves and strengthen our
company as a whole. When the people
around you are passionate about what
they do, everything works better.
”
Face value
Fred Zhang
Communications
officer
Aker Solutions
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Aker Solutions
Corporate responsibility
report 2008/2009
© 2008 Aker Solutions
All rights reserved
www.akersolutions.com
Aker Solutions
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