Following the earthquakes that occurred in Türkiye on February 6, 2023, OYAK Cement, which played an active role in both search and rescue operations and the delivery of humanitarian aid in the affected regions, decided to formalize its field experience into a professional structure and established ARKE – the OYAK Cement Search and Rescue Team.
Formed with the participation of volunteer employees from different production facilities, the ARKE team completed intensive theoretical and practical training programs in critical areas such as search and rescue techniques, first aid, working in debris environments, and crisis management. As of December 5, 2025, the team successfully completed its training and, following the AFAD Urban Search and Rescue Light Level Accreditation process, will be qualified to participate in professional-level operations.
“We have transformed disaster preparedness into a tangible corporate capability”
Commenting on the initiative, OYAK Cement Country CEO Murat Sela stated:
“At OYAK Cement, we view preparedness for disasters as a core corporate and social responsibility. In a country that lives with the reality of earthquakes, while considering our business continuity, we must adopt and internalize an approach that prioritizes human life. Transforming disaster preparedness into a tangible corporate capability was a very important decision. As a result, the ARKE – OYAK Cement Search and Rescue Team, which we established within the scope of the AFAD Urban Search and Rescue accreditation process, stands as the on-the-ground embodiment of this approach. Our team, formed with members from our various facilities, has been prepared for real operational scenarios through intensive training. ARKE is equipped not only to support OYAK Cement facilities but also, when needed, to provide assistance in the regions where we operate. We will continue to develop and expand this structure on an ongoing basis.”
