NEWS

As one of the first UK bus operators to achieve the standard, WBT carries nine million passengers each year and has over 275 employees. OHSAS 18001 is an assessment standard developed in response to the need for companies to meet health and safety obligations, an area fundamental to WBT.

Through intensive preparation for the assessment, management and staff reviewed all existing practices to ensure a strong and consistent health and safety culture was already present throughout the organisation. Assessors from Centre for Assessment then conducted a rigorous ten-day evaluation of the company, reviewing management practices, systems and documentation.

Nigel Featham, managing director of WBT, said: “Our commitment to safety goes hand in hand with our aim of providing the best possible bus service for everyone who lives, visits and does business in Warrington.

“Undergoing external assessment, though demanding, gives us the assurance that we are managing safety in accordance with best practice standards. It also reassures our workforce and customers that we take their well being seriously.

“Put alongside our other existing certifications, achieving 18001 demonstrates our all round commitment to good practice management and brings real business benefits.”

John Keen, assessor at Centre for Assessment, concluded: ““We have worked with WBT on several occasions now, having assessed the company for both Investors in People status and Charter Mark.  As an organisation, we know WBT is extremely committed to its passengers, employees, visitors and contractors.

“It’s been a pleasure to work with the team at WBT; the company is always looking for ways to improve and it is obvious to see it’s commitment to health and safety.  I’m pleased to see the team at WBT celebrating another success.”