FORS is a voluntary accreditation scheme for fleet operators. Originally brought in by Transport for London to improve safety for cyclists, it ‘aims to drive up standards within fleet operations and demonstrate which operators are achieving exemplary levels of best practice in safety, efficiency and environmental protection’*.
Longcliffe Logistics Manager James Hopkinson said: “We are delighted to win our FORS Silver accreditation for a third year. It is recognition for the logistics team, from drivers to maintenance mechanics, and demonstrates our continued commitment to improving safety and environmental performance.”
To win and maintain FORS Silver, Longcliffe had to prove its progressive approach in six key areas, including vehicle performance (emissions and air quality); road risk and cycle safety; professional development; and vehicle safety equipment.
Drivers are heavily involved in the work to achieve the FORS certification. For instance, to demonstrate the most positive approach to road risk and cycle safety, all 46 drivers had to take part in a full day’s training which included spending half a day out on the road on bikes.
Driver and driver trainer Chris Dakin said: “This training was really successful, particularly for the drivers that don’t cycle. It gave us all a better perspective.”
To achieve FORS Silver, Longcliffe also had to demonstrate the highest standards of visibility equipment in its lorries. This includes a four-way camera system and an alarm which sounds when a vehicle is about to take a left turn.
Longcliffe Group Managing Director Paul Boustead adds: “This award is testament to the hard work of our fleet and logistics teams. It not only highlights our performance and safety commitments, but it also ensures we meet the standards expected by many of our customers.” *https://www.fors-online.org.uk/cms/
