Cross Country Carriers is thrilled to announce that we have recently been awarded the FORS Silver Accreditation, something we are extremely proud of. FORS (The Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme) is a leading accreditation within the logistics industry and this particular award signifies our commitment to excellence.
What exactly is FORS Silver?
FORS was established in 2008 and is a voluntary accreditation scheme that aims to raise the standards of fleet operations, promote road safety, and reduce the environmental impact of freight and transportation in urban areas. The FORS provides a framework for fleet operators to measure and monitor performance, adopt best practices, and attain recognition for their efforts.
FORS comprises four accreditation levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold, each representing a higher level of achievement and adherence to standards. FORS Silver occupies the middle ground, serving as a milestone achievement for Cross Country Carriers Ltd to enhance their operations and safety protocols.
The Benefits of FORS Silver Accreditation:
1. Improved Safety Standards:
Driver Training: FORS Silver emphasises comprehensive driver training programs, that cover areas such as vulnerable road user awareness, defensive driving techniques, and safe urban driving.
Vehicle Safety: It promotes the implementation of advanced safety technologies, such as blind-spot detection systems, AI cameras for detecting pedestrians, reversing cameras, and audible warning systems, all of which contribute to a safer operating environment.
2. Enhanced Efficiency and Productivity:
Route Planning and Optimisation: Silver accreditation encourages the adoption of efficient route planning and optimisation techniques, reducing unnecessary mileage, fuel consumption, and emissions.
Vehicle Maintenance: It mandates rigorous vehicle maintenance schedules and inspections, ensuring that vehicles are well-maintained, reliable, and compliant with regulatory standards, thereby minimising breakdowns and disruptions to operations and customers.
Performance Monitoring: Cross Country Carriers Ltd under FORS Silver accreditation utilise telematics systems and performance monitoring tools to track vehicle performance, driver behaviour, and fuel efficiency, enabling proactive management and optimisation of fleet operations.
3. Environmental Responsibility:
Emissions Reduction: FORS Silver encourages adopting environmentally friendly practices such as eco-driving techniques, vehicle idling reduction, and the use of low-emission vehicles or alternative fuels, contributing to reduced carbon emissions and environmental impact.
Waste Management: It promotes effective waste management practices within fleet operations, including the reduction, reuse, and recycling of materials, minimising the environmental footprint of transportation activities.
To obtain FORS Silver accreditation, Cross Country Carriers Ltd must demonstrate compliance with a comprehensive set of criteria covering various aspects of fleet management, safety, and environmental performance.
This includes:
- Documented policies and procedures addressing safety, fuel efficiency, vehicle maintenance, and environmental management.
- Evidence of driver training and competency assessments, including vulnerable road user awareness and safe urban driving.
- Implement vehicle safety measures and technologies, such as blind-spot detection systems and audible warning devices.
- Adoption of efficient routing and scheduling practices to minimise mileage and fuel consumption.
- Regular vehicle maintenance and inspection records, ensuring roadworthiness and compliance with regulatory standards.
- Monitoring and reporting of key performance indicators related to safety, efficiency, and environmental impact.
By adhering to the FORS Silver rigorous standards and best practices, Cross Country Carriers Ltd can enhance operational performance, mitigate risks, and contribute to safer, greener, and more sustainable transportation systems.
As the demand for responsible and sustainable transportation solutions continues to grow, FORS Silver serves as a beacon of excellence, guiding Cross Country Carriers Ltd towards higher standards of performance and professionalism in an ever-evolving industry. If you’re looking for a haulage and logistics partner, then get in touch Cross Country Carriers who would be happy to help.
