IOSH
Forterra Building Products
Working Safely case study
As a leader and innovator in the UK construction industry, Forterra has an extensive network of 17 manufacturing facilities around Britain, employing approximately 1,600 people. It is a major manufacturer of concrete and clay building products used extensively throughout the construction sector.
"As one of the leading manufacturers of building materials for the UK’s construction industry, we know that our greatest asset is our workforce and their health, safety and wellbeing is a key priority. That’s why we’ve invested time and money to put our operational staff through IOSH courses over a two-year period.
"Initially, we trialed Working Safely with our staff at a manufacturing site in Somercotes, Derbyshire, in 2015. The success of this trial led to rolling out IOSH training across the business as part of our revised health and safety strategy.
"The aim was to achieve a more focused approach to safety across the board. We wanted a training product that was well-regarded within the industry and which the staff could be proud of and Working Safely was the one for us. The courses new, dynamic approach proved key. As did the fact that it is jargon-free."
"Around 60% of our operational workforce now holds an IOSH qualification. And were currently aiming for all colleagues to have completed either Working Safely or Managing Safely."
James Langley
- Job role
- Head of Health and Safety
- Company
- Forterra
"The immediate results are a significant reduction in both lost-time injuries and near-misses, and a progressive rise in the number of hazards being proactively spotted at our manufacturing sites. All colleagues are now fully aware that everyone has a professional responsibility to work safely.
"Above all, the IOSH training programme is a strong commitment from a business, financial and time perspective."
James Langley, Head of Health and Safety, Forterra