Builders Merchants Journal – BMJ Publishing to Builders Merchants and the UK merchanting industry for more than 95 years
Independent north-east based builders merchant James Burrell has achieved bronze and silver accreditation under the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) and Construction Logistics and Cyclist Safety (CLOCS) Champion at all of its 11 branches.
The investment is part of the company’s proactive role in adhering to the accreditation requirements with the aim to have a positive impact on all company stakeholders.
FORS is a voluntary scheme for fleet operators who strive for best practice in safety, efficiency and environmental protection. The scheme is open to any business operating a vehicle on a public highway, such as heavy goods vehicles, vans, passenger-carrying vehicles, and cars. To become FORS-accredited, a company must be able to document that it adheres to the very highest safety standards, carrying out comprehensive risk assessments, recording any incidents and carrying out extensive driver safety training programs.
The CLOCS Standard is above the minimum legal requirement for construction companies’ management of work-related road risk. The key objective is to ensure the highest levels of safety for construction vehicles in all aspects of their journey. James Burrell is taking active steps to ensure they carry out regular training, with all drivers recently completing a Safe Urban Driving Course, followed by an e-learning course. The company has also installed new equipment and introduced new procedures to ensure safe and efficient running of their fleet.
Paul Butler, Health and Safety and Transport Manager, said: “At James Burrell Builders Merchants, we pride ourselves on delivering our goods in a safe, efficient and environmentally friendly manner. Progressing to FORS Silver and becoming a CLOCS champion highlights this. Our drivers have undergone training to ensure all vulnerable road users can feel safe when encountering one of our vehicles on the road and our dedicated transport planners ensure all deliveries are planned to minimise disruption, maximise available space, and most importantly ensure safety. It’s a fantastic achievement for all involved and a great way to start the New Year”.
