Aberdeen's Accommodation Services Management (ASM) Ltd is one of the latest companies to join a scheme designed to help the industry improve its safety record.

The Bridge of Don-based firm recently won accreditation from SAFEcontractor, a programme which recognises very high standards of health and safety practice amongst UK contractors.

Employing 40 people, ASM is principally involved in the commercial property sector. Specialising in facilities management support services and office design and fitout, with a £4 million turnover, ASM’s most recent clients have included major players such as Exxon Mobil, Total E&P UK Ltd, and Kongsberg Maritime Ltd.

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General Manager Ian Beaton said: "We have a good safety record with excellent feedback from clients and awards from RoSPA. However, we must continually strive to improve further and demonstrate that our systems and working methods are of the highest standards."

SAFEcontractor accreditation is expected to enhance a company’s ability to attract new contracts due to a commitment to safety. More than 100 businesses from across the country have joined the scheme which is applicable to most sectors although it is particularly relevant to sectors which are big users of contract services such as food manufacture, property, facilities management, retail and leisure.

Under the SAFEcontractor system, businesses undergo a vetting process, which examines health and safety procedures and the track record for safe practice. Those companies meeting the high standard are included on a database which is accessible to registered users via a website.

Darran Hughes, Operations Director for SAFEcontractor commented: "Major organisations can no longer run the risk of employing contractors who are not able to prove that they have sound health and safety policies."

(GK/BMcc)