Three Rivers team commended for health and safety

Three Rivers District Council is the top local authority in the country for its health and safety practices in waste management services.

The Council's in-house waste team was a finalist in the 2nd annual Vehicles & Plant Awards, held on 13 September, coming second in their category overall and top of all the local authorities shortlisted.

The judges praised the "big effort" which the Three Rivers team had put into its health and safety practices.

The Council's Waste Services Manager, Malcolm Clarke, said:

"This is great news for the staff.  The level of accidents in the waste industry is higher than any other sector, so it's right to be concerned about it.  We are confident that the systems we have in place and the improvements which have been made will keep our operation as safe as possible for staff and customers."

The District Council brought its waste services back in house from the private sector in 2002 and health and safety management is one of many improvements made as a result.

Initiatives introduced for the team which led to the judges' high commendation have included:

• Risk assessments carried out for all activities
• Reviews following rare accidents
• Safety improvements at Batchworth Depot in Rickmansworth
• A City & Guilds training programme for all operational staff
• Driver refresher training
• Banksman training for waste collectors.

The team has also recently achieved Charter Mark accreditation, which means that residents can expect a high standard of customer service and care from staff.