Surface materials distributor IDS has announced a significant milestone in its Health and Safety record: a full 12 months without any Lost Time Accidents (LTAs).
Lost Time Accidents are classed as any work-related injury that causes an individual to lose 24 hours of work following the day of the accident. IDS has reported zero Lost Time Accidents within the business between February 1st, 2023 and February 1st, 2024, a record it has maintained to date.
Colin Cunningham, UK National EHS Manager at IDS, commented: "Maintaining this safety record is no small feat in a distribution business with over 400 employees, spanning 12 regional sites, with up to 80 vehicles on the road daily, and over 12,000 product lines to stock and distribute.
"An LTA can arise from seemingly minor incidents, so to have had zero incidents in a whole year demonstrates a tremendous effort and collaboration of everyone in ensuring the safety of all staff."
IDS regularly assesses workplace hazards, implements preventive measures and provides comprehensive training to employees, following clear policies and guidelines.
Notable initiatives include the installation of six cameras around all HGVs with a 2021 plate and above, and the incorporation of three-metre zonal lights around the majority of forklift trucks. These measures are designed to ensure safe distances between vehicles and pedestrians, enhancing overall workplace safety.
The Lost Time Accidents milestone coincides with the appointment of Colin Cunningham as IDS’s UK National EHS Manager. Cunningham is a QHSE professional with 20 years of experience and a MSc in Health, Safety & Environmental Management, with expertise that spans regulatory compliance, problem-solving and leadership.
He added: "Our goal is to cultivate a 'zero accident culture' where every individual, from top management to frontline workers, is dedicated to preventing accidents and promoting a safe work environment. We are actively bridging the gap between regulatory requirements and our actual practices to ensure compliance and safety across the organisation."
