Lebalelo Water User Association Case Study
Water is a global necessity, and the Lebalelo Water User Association (LWUA) is at the heart of ensuring a sustainable water supply in South Africa. By achieving ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 certifications, LWUA is poised for growth and excellence in the water utilities sector
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Introducing Lebalelo Water User Association (LWUA)
Lebalelo Water User Association, with its head office in Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa, and operational headquarters in Modubeng, Limpopo, has been operational since 2002. LWUA serves communities and industries in the Eastern Limb of the Bushveld Complex, Limpopo Province, specialising in the supply of bulk raw water.
With a dedicated team of 57 employees across two primary locations, LWUA is committed to maintaining high standards in water utility services, ensuring reliability and sustainability for its clients.
Setting a high standard in the Water Utilities Industry
In February 2024, LWUA achieved a significant milestone by securing three ISO certifications through NQA:
- ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management)
- ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management)
- ISO 45001:2018 (Occupational Health and Safety Management)
These certifications form an Integrated Management System, underscoring LWUA's commitment to quality, environmental stewardship, and occupational health and safety.
LWUA praised their NQA Assessor, Ernst Kamffer, for his professionalism, vast knowledge and experience. His comprehensive risk-based and integrated approach facilitated a seamless audit process. Kamffer's readiness to travel to remote locations allowed for complete engagement with management and staff and ensured everyone was involved in the audit process.
Partnering with consultants and NQA
To prepare for the certification audits, LWUA collaborated with an external consultant, leveraging the expertise of internal staff. This partnership ensured that LWUA's management systems were robust and ready for NQA's rigorous independent third-party audit.
NQA’s reputation for excellent customer service was a key factor in LWUA’s choice of certification body. The supportive and professional relationship with NQA has been instrumental in LWUA's certification journey.
Achieving and Growing
LWUA developed an integrated business management system with detailed process flows to streamline operations and enhance efficiency.
With ISO certifications in place, LWUA has seen a marked improvement in its image and credibility. This integration was pivotal in meeting the requirements of their members, particularly those in the mining sector, and assisted in fundraising and securing approval for capital projects.
As LWUA looks to the future, the goals are ambitious yet achievable. The company aims to expand its workforce from 57 to 255 employees, diversify its service offerings, and attract a broader client base.
Final thoughts from NQA
NQA congratulates Lebalelo Water User Association on their impressive achievements in such a short period. Their dedication to quality, environmental, and occupational health and safety standards is a model for the water utilities industry.
LWUA is a testament to the fact that any organisation can achieve and maintain high standards of excellence with the right commitment and support. We look forward to seeing LWUA's continued growth and success in the coming years!
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