The PHDT also ventured in to two new initiatives to further improve the productivity and quality of Product marketed by Estates and also enhance the knowledge and skills of the Plantation Community.

I. Computer Assembling

The in-house IT Division at PHDT embarked on Assembling Computers using the best components with Agents warranties marketed under the Brand Name ‘PLANTEC’. Four models are on offer at very reasonable prices primarily for the benefit of Estate Community and the EWHCS network. The Main Objectives through this scheme are as follows:-

(i) Provide opportunity for continuous improvement of IT skills acquired from regular training programmes.

(ii) Enable constant direct access to internet / E-mail facilities thereby enhancing the knowledge and instant communication ability by users.

(iii) Improve efficiency of Operations/ Profitability and Accountability of EWHCS, through proper documentation, prompt feed back of information etc.

(iv) Provide greater facilities and better quality service to estate workers who are all members of the EWHCS.

II. ISO Certification

The PHDT was appointed as an Agent of the Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI) who are accredited by the International Standards Organization (ISO) to facilitate the process of developing and implementing the ISO Standards in the Estates and Institutions associated with the Plantation Sector. Working with a team of Consultants, the PHDT now undertakes the certification process of ISO 9001:2008 (Quality Management System) ISO 22000 ( Food & Safety Management System) ISO 14001 (Environmental Management System) and BS OSHAS 18001 – (Occupational Health and Safety Management System) which are particularly beneficial to the Plantation Sector. The objectives through this process areas follows:-

(i) Improve production process and working environment in factories to International standards.

(ii) Enhance quality of product thereby the ability to increase demand and obtain better prices.

(iii) Streamline Management process in office/ factories which leads to high efficiency, greater output, cost savings and better facilities for workers.

(iv) Out put of High quality product on par with global standards enabling secure new world markets / buyers and thereby enhance profits.