Relocation specialists Edward Baden have gained recognition for their work to benefit the environment, improve the training of employees, and reduce incidents in the workplace and on the road.
The company, which is based on Bellbrook Industrial Estate in Uckfield and operates worldwide, has completed the Silver FORS Accreditation (The Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme) which aims to raise the level of quality within fleet operations, and demonstrate which operators are achieving the standard.
Management, vehicles, drivers and operations are all considered to meet the standard. Each section requires information based on legal compliance, safety, efficiency, environment, security and counter terrorism.
Head of operations John Brooker said: “We are extremely proud of our Silver FORS accreditation. We have worked hard to achieve the silver standard which improves safety across the industry – protecting people and the planet. He continued; “Many of our customers are now expecting their suppliers to have quality standards that comply with FORS. Conforming to the silver standard benefits the environment, improves the training of our employees and helps reduce incidents in the workplace and on the road.”
The Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) was introduced by Transport For London, but is now administered by FORS Community Partnership (FCP) which comprises AECOM, The Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport (CILT) and Fleet Source.
Management standards require the review, revision and retaining of all policies and procedures, risk assessments, method statements and supporting documentation. Vehicles standards require that vehicles are serviceable and roadworthy. Part of the silver standard requires camera and audible warning safety equipment to help protect vulnerable road users, this also complies with Transport for London’s (TFL) HGV safety permit scheme.
Driver standards ensure that drivers are licensed to operate vehicles and any risks that have been identified are monitored and managed. Drivers also have a professional development plan to ensure training is provided to improve knowledge, skills and attitudes.
Operations standards require Edward Baden to be as efficient as possible while minimising safety, environmental and congestion impacts on the road network. Fuel consumption and vehicle emissions need to be monitored. The Edward Baden fleet of vehicles are Euro 6 compliant which means they are six times more efficient for the environment, than a Euro 5 engine.
Silver standard requires additional information about performance data, fuel emissions and air quality, road risk, professional development, vehicle safety equipment, noise pollution, internal communications and sub-contracted services, and was awarded to Edward Baden Relocation Services on 18th August 2019.
Craig Fryer, Group Managing Director, commented; “This accreditation is the latest milestone within our long term strategy of quality training, improved health and safety, reducing our carbon footprint and continuous commercial improvements.”