Tarmac’s Dunbar drivers and logistics teams are celebrating their part in the company achieving FORS Gold accreditation for the management of its road transport fleet nationwide.
Demonstrating its first-class commitment to the highest standards in safety, environment and operational efficiency across its road operation, the Tarmac Cement and Lime Division’s own fleet has raised its Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) accreditation from Silver to Gold.
And whilst the Dunbar cement plant transports a large proportion of its cement out by rail, its road fleet and drivers play an important role in the delivery of the renowned Blue Circle Cement to construction sites across Scotland and the North East of England. Eight dedicated drivers, including a specialist driver trainer are based at the Plant, operating seven road bulk tankers.
Their work to win this recognition has included ongoing driver health and fitness screening, ‘vulnerable road users’ driving courses and the completion of training which has led to significant improvements in the fuel efficiency of their vehicles.
Tarmac’s distribution manager for Scotland, Scott Lindsay said: “This award represents months of significant effort from the whole transport team including our central support team at Head Office. We progressed from FORS Bronze to Silver last year and then onto Gold this year for our entire fleet which also operate from our Uddingston and Aberdeen cement depots. The fact that we have successfully achieved this standard is a testament to the way our drivers, driver trainer and transport teams operate. This is an award for them as well as for Tarmac.”
Nick Childs, Tarmac’s logistics safety and compliance manager added: “FORS Gold accreditation is only awarded to exceptional operators who have met exacting targets. Against strict criteria we have demonstrated continuous improvements in safety, environmental and operational performance. We will now focus our efforts to make further improvements across our operation and maintain our FORS Gold status.”
Tarmac is an industry leader in HGV safety and was the first company to be accredited to undertake the rigorous FORS audit process for its whole UK and subcontractor fleet.
The Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme is a voluntary accreditation scheme that promotes best practice for commercial vehicle operators. It encompasses all aspects of safety, efficiency, and environmental protection by encouraging and training fleet operators to measure, monitor and improve performance.
Photo caption: Local driver Steve Laidlaw proudly shows one of the Tarmac cement lorries with its FORS gold award on the cab.