FORS - the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme - aims to improve road safety and promote best practice in the transport and logistics industry. There are three levels of FORS accreditation beginning with Bronze, then Silver and finally Gold.    

Matthew James began the process in 2013 and has rapidly progressed to the Gold Standard. 

“It’s all a matter of proving that as an operator you are doing all you can to promote safety and best practice in every aspect of your transport activities,” said Director and Transport Manager Steve Turner. “We monitor everything we do: how much fuel we use, how many miles we travel, any tickets we get for parking or traffic infringements, driver training, etc. - FORS want to know everything.”  

Steve said that meeting the Bronze criteria was simple enough, getting Silver and now Gold is another matter.  “We did need to up our game to qualify for those,” said Steve.  “That is of course the reason we joined: it’s one thing to say you’re good, but with FORS everyone involved has to buy into the ethos of safety and best practice and you have to prove it.”  

By having FORS Gold the company saves money on insurance costs.  For every penny spent on equipment, such as cameras, scanners and special mirrors, the insurance company refunds an agreed percentage.  

Apart from its work in the removals industry Matthew James also works as a subcontractor for some on the UK’s major transport and logistics companies.  “Being a member of FORS has certainly helped us win contracts for that side of our business,” said Steve.    

Photo: Steve Turner & new Business Development Manager Jason Davey