Member Article

Sword of Honour for safety heroes

A NORTH East manufacturer is proving it’s in safe hands after being named among the leading lights of safety with a prestigious international award.

Plastics manufacturer Nifco UK, based in Eaglescliffe, was awarded the British Safety Council’s Sword of Honour – for the second time - in recognition of its commitment to the highest standards of health and safety throughout the business, from the shopfloor to the boardroom.

The business, which produces parts that are used in the engines, interiors and exteriors of cars made by Ford, Honda, Jaguar Land Rover, Nissan Toyota and Vauxhall Opel, was one of only 61 organisations worldwide to win the award accreditation.

Mike Matthews, Nifco UK managing director and European operations manager, said that the award was testament to the dedication of every member of Nifco’s team and echoed the business’ commitment to keeping its people at the heart of its operation.

Mr Matthews said: “We’re delighted to be awarded the Sword of Honour from the British Safety Council for the second consecutive of submitting – the first being in 2012. The safety and wellbeing of our staff is of paramount importance to us and we pride ourselves on providing our team with a safe and motivating environment, and by winning for a second time demonstrates that health and safety is a continuous commitment for us, not just something for award-season

“We have a team of more than 560 and every member of staff contributes to ensure we’re all operating in a safe workplace, so this award is a testament to each individual at Nifco and the continuous work that goes in to ensure the safety of everyone on site.”

To achieve the award, Nifco UK first had to achieve the maximum five stars in the British Safety Council’s health and safety management audit scheme that was held through the period of August 2014 to July 2015.

Nifco UK has implemented a number of schemes designed to promote a safer working environment, including encouraging staff suggestions for improved operations.

Mike Robinson, chief executive of the British Safety Council, said: “Our warmest congratulations to 61 of our member organisations who have won the Sword of Honour. These awards recognise and celebrate the excellence of the winning organisations and their employees in managing health, safety and environmental risks.

“All of the Sword-winning organisations share a commitment and resolve to achieving the highest standards of health and safety. We are delighted that they are partners in helping achieve our vision that no one should be injured or made ill at work.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Jess Ramsey .