OMCE-Jordan Improves Safety and Saves Money by Reducing Hazardous Chemicals Use

Dr. David Manneh, OMCE Jordan CEO said, “With USAID’s assistance, we accelerated the process of substituting solvent-based paint with water-based paint in our processes. USAID helped our facility make operational changes that significantly reduce gaseous emissions and protect workers’ health.”

By using a 50/50 water/solvent-based paint rather than solvent-based paint in its manufacturing process, OMCE Jordan reduced gaseous emissions and achieved an annual savings of 23,000 JOD. Other operational changes have reduced the risk of human health exposure, environmental contamination, and fire.
Located in the Al-Hashimiyeh Industrial Zone in Zarqa, Jordan, OMCE Jordan produces cylindrical drums, tapered drums and metal rings. Operations include metal cutting, rolling, welding, flanging, beading, seaming, painting, curing and marking.
In addition to the paint substitution, OMCE Jordan has made several other changes recommended in a USAID-funded pollution prevention assessment of the factory’s operations:

- Modified pressure settings on air compressor
- Repaired leaks from air compressor lines
- Improved the handling of paints and solvents in paint mixing room

The air compressor and compressor line changes will save an estimated 7,500 kWh/yr in electricity (approximately 500 JOD), which is equivalent to 4,000 kg of CO2 emissions. The handling modifications have reduced emissions, odors, and potential chemical exposure to workers, as well as the risk of fire and related environmental and human health conse-quences.
Cost savings from using the less expensive 50/50 water/ solvent-based paint will increase if OMCE-Jordan begins producing water-based paint internally instead of purchasing it from suppliers.


OMCE-Jordan is one of 30 industrial partners working with USAID to reduce industrial pollution and conserve scarce water and energy resources – in ways that benefit the bottom line. The Water Reuse and Environmental Conservation Project examined water and energy use, material and waste flow, production processes, quality control, and other aspects of each facility’s operations. The assessments suggested options for minimizing pollution and saving water, energy, and money. Costs and payback periods for various options were also analyzed.