Two Northern Ireland manufacturers have become the first firms in the province to be inducted into the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland’s (HSENI) new Recognising Excellence Programme.

3M Bangor and Invista Textiles Derry were honoured at an event hosted by the United States Consul General Susan Elliot.

Ms Elliot said: "Not only am I delighted that two American owned companies have successfully achieved this coveted status but I am also delighted that the HSENI Recognising Excellence Programme has grown out of a very productive relationship with the United States Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

-- Advertisement --

"This has seen OSHA working closely with HSENI staff helping them transpose the tried and tested Voluntary Protection Program to a Northern Ireland setting."

HSENI Chairman Peter McKie said: "Too often health and safety is about negatives. We count injuries and illnesses and we look for poor performance. Whilst this is important and has a rightful place I am of strong opinion that good performance should not only be encouraged but actively recognised.

"This new Recognising Excellence Programme is an ideal vehicle to do just that. Both 3M and Invista are to be congratulated for stepping up to the mark and coming out on top. They are without doubt beacons of excellence when it comes to managing health and safety.

"I would encourage others to emulate them and reap the benefits of a truly safe and health workplace."

(PR)