Smurfit Kappa Recycling has received certification to BS EN ISO14001, the internationally-recognised Environmental Management System Standard, and OHSAS18001, the Occupational Health & Safety Management System Standard, following an independent audit by AJA Registrars.

Every one of the company's sites and depots received the prestigious BS EN 14001 certificate, after completing a 12 month improvement programme to reduce the impact of the organisation's operations on the environment by reducing energy consumption and educating staff.

"Diverting recovered fibre from traditional waste outlets such as landfills has a positive impact on the environment and Smurfit Kappa Recycling has a proud history of diverting substantial volumes," explains Gary Grant, UK operations manager. "This official accreditation demonstrates our commitment to environmental protection in all aspects of our operations.”

The company has always implemented stringent health & safety procedures to protect its employees and other parties associated with its operations, which range from collection and transportation to baling and shredding. Compliance with the crucial OHSAS 18001 entailed a complete review of health & safety including risk assessments and emergency procedures, together with a comprehensive staff training and awareness programme which ran across all eight depots from Southampton to Glasgow.

"We are very proud of this achievement in health & safety but certification is not the end of the story," says Gary. "With the number of fatal accidents in the waste and recycling industry currently more than the national average, no company can afford to be complacent and we will continue to do anything we can to protect our employees, customers and the public."

The recent certifications are in addition to the BSEN 9001 Quality Management Standard which the company achieved in 1994. Compliance manager Mark Montgomery adds: “Accreditation to these important markers in quality, environmental protection and health & safety is a fantastic achievement and will enable Smurfit Kappa Recycling to compete in an increasingly demanding market."

Picture shows: Smurfit Kappa Recycling’s UK operations manager Gary Grant (left) and compliance manager Mark Montgomery (right) holding the new certificates for OHSAS18001, the Occupational Health & Safety Management System Standard and BS EN ISO14001, the internationally-recognised Environmental Management System Standard, with Simon Weston, managing director (top centre)

T: 01827 892100
E: mike.challans@smurfitkappa.co.uk
W: www.smurfitkappa.co.uk