Food coatings manufacturer Witwood Food Products has joined the UK's health and safety elite.

The Banbury based firm has received the British Safety Council's prestigious Five Star Health and Safety audit award.

The Health and Safety Management System Audit is an independent review of health and safety management systems. Following one of the most comprehensive safety evaluations in the world, organisations are awarded star ratings from one to five, which indicate the effectiveness of their safety programmes. Covering 82 separate areas - from fire control systems and first aid provision to waste management and hygiene - the audit also cross checks health and safety systems; evaluating their effectiveness and providing feedback for continuous improvement.

During the recent audit, Witwoods' permit to work systems, safety procedures, communications and fire safety training were singled out for particular praise. According to engineering manager, David Black, the five star rating is the culmination of five years' work across all areas of the business:

"The aim of the audit is continuous improvement and, since our initial audit, achieving five star status has been our goal. We're delighted with the award, and now our focus will move to ensuring that we maintain these high standards."

British Safety Council Director General, David Ballard, adds, "Witwoods should take real pride in their achievement. Implementing effective management systems can reduce costs, improve profitability and assure employees that their safety is at the heart of the business."

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