Providing the highest possible standards on safety and the environment

Because of the hazardous nature of many of the consignments we transport, a strong focus on safety, health and environmental issues has been a fundamental requirement in the development of our operations. Quite simply, Suttons is prepared to turn down business on a safety standpoint - a key factor which differentiates us from some of our competitors.

Health and Safety issues are therefore of primary importance throughout the organisation and as a consequence the company has invested heavily in the provision of emergency response equipment and training. In addition, all Divisions of the Suttons Group are approved to ISO 9001 and SQAS standards.

Suttons Emergency Response

In the unlikely event of an incident involving one of our vehicles, Suttons is fully prepared and can provide a rapid response anywhere the UK, 24 hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week.

Suttons safety systems include:

• Documented procedures in line with Chemical Industry Association Guidelines
• Duty Managers and Team Leaders trained in ‘Off Site Emergency Control’ at the Fire Service College, Moreton-in-the-Marsh or at Teesside Training Enterprise
• Two fully equipped Environmental Control Workshops based alongside the major motorway network
• Five fast-response Emergency Response Trailers located at other strategic depots
• Joint training exercises with Customers and Emergency Services

Suttons has also worked closely with Flotronic, the pump manufacturer, to test its pumps, helping to make them safer and easier to use as well as reliable in emergency situations.

Driver Training

Suttons has an excellent safety record, chiefly due the high quality of its driver workforce. Rigorous checks are carried out on all applications to ensure that only the most reliable and safety conscious drivers are employed by the company. Re-assessment follows every twelve months to maintain quality service standards.

In 2000, Suttons established a Training Centre at its St Helens site to provide new drivers with Safety Induction Training. In addition, all drivers attend an annual classroom refresher course which includes updates on legislation, safety and customer care issues.

The company’s specially selected chlorine tanker drivers are given additional training in order to equip them for the carriage of this hazardous chemical.

Think Safe

In 2006, Suttons expanded its focus on safety awareness by introducing the ‘Think Safe’ programme, which involves all Suttons people in identifying potential risks and hazards, to assist in proactive safety management.

Suttons constant focus on safety has resulted in a consistent year on year reduction in safety related incidents and has been recognised by the presentation of the Motor Transport ‘Safety in Operation’ Award in 2001 and 2005.