Weston College awarded prestigious health and safety award – one of just 79 in world and only FE college in UK

Weston College has been awarded the Sword of Honour by the British Safety Council - one of just 79 organisations in the world and the only FE college.

The five-star award is for the very high standards of health and safety implemented at the Knightstone Campus after an intense five day inspection.

Weston College Environmental Services Officer, Rory O'Connor and assistant, Lorna Tanner oversaw the audit.

Rory, who is a former Divisional Commander in the Fire Service, said: "It was a very thorough inspection and out of 72 points we scored 69. The pass mark was 60.

"The focus was on the effectiveness of health and safety management system and this award is the pinnacle of what we can achieve in this area."

Weston College Principal and Chief Executive, Dr Paul Phillips, said: "This is a fantastic achievement for Weston College and a reflection of the importance we place on the safety of students and staff."

The Sword of Honour will be presented to Weston College at the Mansion house in London on November 23rd.

The British Safety Council (www.britsafe.org) is a global health, safety and environmental charity which aims to promote safety in all organisations.

A BSC spokesman said: "I would like to thank both Lorna, Rory and the staff of Weston College for all the effort they have put towards gaining the Sword of Honour . This is the most prestigious international health and safety accolade an establishment can receive with Applicants undergoing a rigorous application process, providing evidence on senior management commitment, safety monitoring, safety initiatives, safety culture, risk reduction, combating ill health, emergency planning and continuous professional development."

For more information on courses at Weston College please visit www.weston.ac.uk or telephone 01934 411411