The Storage Handling and Equipment Distributors' Association (SHEDA) continues to drive forward industry standards with the launch of a scheme supporting members' Health and Safety Assessments. SHEDA is encouraging members to commission independent health and safety audits by offering to pay up to half the cost of a primary assessment. Match funding is available up to a maximum of £375 (around half the cost of a typical assessment). Assessments remain the responsibility and choice of individual member companies. SHEDA member Central Source, who piloted the programme, told council the company benefited from being able to set their own criteria relevant to the business, rather than undergoing a 'one-size-fits-all' assessment. The association hopes to see all distributor members follow their example over the next two or three years. SHEDA President Craig Powell said: "The match-funding campaign is not a hand-holding exercise – members have to take responsibility for the audits but initiatives like this encourage members to take the next step. "It is a sign of our commitment to raise and maintain the highest safety standards in the industry and members who meet and exceed these standards stand to reap considerable benefits. "SHEDA continues to bring a wealth of experience and advice to its 60-strong membership, and companies are actively seeking suppliers who are committed to following industry guidelines and to whom health and safety are paramount." Recent concrete evidence that major retailers, logistics companies and energy producers are actively seeking SHEDA membership as a prerequisite of tender qualification is a powerful reflection of the association's increasing strength. SHEDA recommends regular inspections of racking systems by qualified inspectors – both externally and internally - and liaises with the Health and Safety Executive, monitoring standards on issues such as working at height and SEIRS. A strong partnership with the Storage Equipment Manufacturers' Association (SEMA), which runs SEIRS courses in racking inspection, also ensures warehouses are run safely. SHEDA continues to drive up standards, providing a platform for members to share best practice and up-to-date information as well as quarterly council meetings, exhibitions and an AGM, offering unrivalled networking opportunities. Membership of SHEDA no longer necessarily requires stringent compliance with the 25-year-old association's original requirements on stock – recognition of today's faster-paced business environment. For more information about SHEDA membership log on to www.sheda.org,uk
Tel: 0121 454 4141.