New Image Stone says Earned Recognition can benefit even the smallest transport operations

New Image Stone was on hand at the DVSA Earned Recognition launch at the CV Show to prove that the scheme can work for the smaller operator, as well as large fleets.

The Staines, Surrey-based business supplies and installs custom-built natural stone products, made from materials like marble and granite, for luxury property developments in London and the South.

Although it only ones one 11-tonne Isuzu truck and employs two drivers for its delivery work, the firm was keen to be on-board with Earned Recognition to prove its commitment to safety.

It is already a FORS gold member, as well as CLOCS champion and member of RoSPA.

Transport manager Monica Coe told CM she first approached DVSA to get involved after hearing about Earned Recognition an industry show last year.

“It seemed like a logical step for us to take, as we were at the time silver Fors, so we had the sytems in place already, but it was about being more transparent with DVSA directly, which we have no problem with,” she said.

“We’re the only stone company within Earned Recognition, so for us to be on it early on, we are showing our suppliers, clients and competitors what we are willing to do to show our compliance. We are proud of what we do and how we’ve gone from bronze FORS to gold and a CLOCS champion.”

The company made tweaks to its existing safety and compliance procedures, but said other than the need for auditing, it hasn’t taken too much time to get the necessary systems in line with DVSA requirements.

Through doing so, it has also realised efficiency and cost benefits, for example switching its tachograph system to Novadata.

“It was easy to use and has actually worked out cheaper for us. The data is a lot more beneficial for me to pass back to my drivers. It is good to show them how they are doing and help keep them on track. If I do see any concerns, I can investigate them,” said Coe.

She encouraged other fleet operators of all sizes to have the confidence to sign up to earned recognition, particularly if working in London as Coe feels it is “only a matter of time before clients start to ask for this”.

“Making a few changes, can really benefit your company in the long run,” she added.

• See out landing page for CV Show 2018 highlights.