PEOPLE: HUMAN RESOURCES AND GLOBAL POLITICS

In spring 2025, we hosted a fireside chat with Sofia Wiker, People and Culture Manager, and Stefan Långström, Chief People and Culture Officer. Our conversation covered FORCIT’S HR policies, training initiatives, and the impacts of global events on their personnel, influencing both policy decisions and proactive measures. We also discussed what it’s like working in the explosives industry today and in future.

The chat was hosted by Timo Rantanen, a sustainable professional and writer.

INTERVIEWER: How has the current global political situation influenced FORCIT’s HR policies?

SOFIA: Recent global events have significantly impacted our approach, especially regarding crisis management. We’ve strengthened our crisis preparedness, establishing a crisis hotline specifically for managers and arranging training sessions in collaboration with occupational health services. These sessions aim to equip managers with the necessary skills to respond effectively to accidents or crises. Furthermore, we’re updating our contingency plans and planning practical exercises this spring to enhance our readiness.

INTERVIEWER: Given global uncertainties, how proactive is FORCIT in addressing potential crises?

SOFIA: We’re highly proactive. The increased global uncertainty has naturally elevated our focus on security, both because it’s integral to our mission of making society safer and because it’s our top internal priority. Our commitment is clear: safety is non-negotiable.

STEFAN: Exactly. Our updated policies now address additional areas, such as alcohol, drugs, and cybersecurity. To prevent vulnerabilities, we conduct alcohol and drug tests during recruitment and randomly throughout employment. Immediate action follows any non-compliant results. Clear policies communicate our stance, reinforcing security.

SOFIA: Social media usage is another critical area. We’ve updated our policy regarding public representation on social platforms, emphasizing caution, particularly when employees are identified with the FORCIT brand. This approach is well-supported by our communications department, ensuring employees remain conscious of their public behavior and its implications.

INTERVIEWER: Could you elaborate on how FORCIT addresses employee health considering these global challenges?

STEFAN: Employee well-being, both physical and mental, is paramount. We continuously emphasize individual responsibility for maintaining personal health, supported by various company initiatives. Our comprehensive occupational health services include regular health check-ups every three years, not merely as a legal requirement but as part of our commitment to being an exemplary employer. These check-ups cover physical assessments and lifestyle counseling, promoting sustained health and productivity in physically demanding roles.

SOFIA: The mental aspect is equally critical. Societal developments have highlighted growing mental health challenges, prompting us to provide active support and monitoring. As our industry is unique, attracting new talent requires proactive efforts in promoting well-being and highlighting our supportive environment. We focus on sustaining both physical stamina and mental resilience, essential for thriving in our distinctive sector.