Hewden Stuart plc, the UK's largest plant hirer, has become one of the first plant rental companies to achieve Achilles BuildingConfidence Programme accreditation. The BuildingConfidence programme is designed to enable major contractors and clients in the construction industry to improve performance and demonstrate corporate social responsibility in the supply chain.

The scheme, a partnership between Bovis Lend Lease and Achilles Information Ltd, assesses construction industry suppliers in the areas of safety, the environment, sustainability, quality, occupational health and finance. Bovis Lend Lease is encouraging other major construction companies and contractors to adopt this accreditation process, with a view to creating a construction industry benchmark for best practice in the supply chain.

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Neil Sheppard, EH&S Officer, Hedwen, said: "Hewden is committed to demonstrating corporate social responsibility and we have been particularly active in reducing our impact on the environment and improving our health and safety record. This certification comes as recognition of the strides we have taken."

Nigel McKay Head of Procurement at Bovis Lend Lease said: "The Building Confidence programme is all about setting the standard for our supply chain and raising the industry bar for the future. The rigorous accreditation process is undertaken with strict criteria and a wide remit, as well as being fully audited on a continuing basis to ensure we are working with the best in the industry and helping to create a truly ethical supply chain."

(GK/JM)