Recycling firm’s joy over transport award
SOUTH Derbyshire-based metal recycling and waste management specialist Ward has been awarded the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme Gold accreditation for its fleet safety, driver training and overall transport operations.
The Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) is a voluntary accreditation scheme for transport businesses which aims to raise the level of quality in operations. It recognises teams achieving exemplary levels of best practice in safety, efficiency and environmental protection. Gold accreditation is only awarded to exceptional operators that have met exacting targets.
Min Bawa, senior transport manager at Ward, which is based in
Moira Road, Woodville, said: “This is an incredible achievement and we are so proud of our team for being awarded FORS Gold status.
“We’re one of only a few recycling companies that hold the ISO 9001, 14001 and 18001 quality standards as well as retaining Investors in People accreditation and this additional recognition of best practice cements our commitment to quality even further.”
To achieve the accreditation the metal and waste management specialist had to evidence best practice across several areas including driver wellbeing, fuel efficiency, noise reduction and modal shift.
Mr Bawa added: “Our fleet is under constant review. “As part of our sustainability road map to 2030 we are committed to having a fleet that is 100% Euro 6 specification.
“By replacing older vehicles when the time comes and continually investing in the latest technology, we aim to reduce emissions, improve fuel efficiency and equipment safety, as well as supporting our drivers’ wellbeing with training and wider benefits.”
Operations director Donald Ward said: “We want people to know that when they choose Ward as their supplier they are guaranteed a low carbon footprint, high standards of sustainability, safety and great level of service. FORS Gold is recognition that we consistently achieve that.”
Ward was established in Woodville in 1940, specialising in the recycling of ferrous metals. The ISO9001 quality accreditation was granted to the company in 1990 and during the following years the directors realised the potential to develop and grow Ward Recycling by responding to the waste management needs of modern business and industry.
In 2002 the company expanded to its second location, a 10-acre site at Ilkeston, representing a total investment of over £5m. February 2004 saw continued investment with the installation of the £1m Redox waste recycling plant at the Ilkeston site. In 2010, Ward Recycling expanded to a third site and in 2015 it bought a site in Chesterfield, which further expanded its coverage over the UK offering metal recycling solutions for the North of the country.
Today Ward has an annual turnover in excess of £140m, employs over 400 people and operates a fleet of over 100 vehicles.