What Is FORS Accreditation and Why Do You Need It?
FORS is short for the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme and is a third-party, voluntary accreditation used by commercial fleet operators as a way of promoting best practices across the haulage and shipping industries. Accreditation by the scheme shows that your company has demonstrated its commitment to those practices and that you are dedicated to the safety, efficiency, and environmental impact of your fleet and its crew.
Here at Dromore Safety Services Ltd, we help hauliers and other fleet operators across the UK register for FORS and also prepare for their accreditation assessment. In this article, we will look at what FORS accreditation is and how it can make a difference to your business.
What Is FORS Accreditation?
FORS covers a variety of areas for running your commercial fleet properly, including safety, efficiency, and environmental protection. It promotes best practice amongst its members by encouraging a culture change within the company. As a part of the scheme, you will be expected to engage in a process of continual improvement, measuring, monitoring, and improving upon various performance criteria.
Do I Need FORS Accreditation?
FORS is an entirely voluntary scheme, with no legal requirement for your firm to attain accreditation. However, in practical terms, many of your clients will expect you to be registered and accredited with FORS before they sign a contract with you. The scheme is considered the gold standard in terms of fleet operator practices in the UK. Many sectors will not consider a haulage or freight tender from a commercial fleet operator without an up-to-date FORS accreditation.
What Types of FORS Accreditation Are There?
There are three types of FORS certificates available: Bronze, Silver, and Gold. Bronze FORS is the entry-level membership to the scheme. To attain this standard, you are expected to raise your internal fleet operation procedures to the minimum levels demanded by the scheme’s assessors. Once you have achieved the Bronze FORS, you will be expected to strive for the Silver and Gold standards, proving your commitment to delivering the best practices in the industry.
What Are the Benefits of FORS Accreditation?
There are many practical benefits to becoming FORS-accredited. Being part of the scheme helps to improve inter-company communication, as a key aspect of FORS is greater efficiency between departments (notably your drivers and your logistics team). Improved efficiency results in reduced running costs for your fleet, as well as improved workplace safety as your drivers will be less tired and more alert. Having the FORS logo on your website or printed literature lets customers know you are dedicated to delivering on the industry’s best practices, making them more likely to hire you and your fleet.
How Do I Apply for FORS Accreditation?
This is where Dromore Safety Services Ltd can help. While you can register with FORS directly and apply for the first stage of accreditation through their website, you need to demonstrate you have the right procedures in place if you hope to meet the scheme’s requirements. We help you do just that, bringing your current processes up to scratch before you even apply and then helping you with the paperwork required to achieve accreditation.
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Get in touch
If you’re a commercial fleet operator, you may discover that FORS accreditation provides new opportunities for your company. For professional assistance registering with the scheme and attaining your Bronze FORS accreditation, get in touch with Dromore Safety Services Ltd today. Call us on 07717 210 323 to discuss your requirements and let us put together a plan of action.
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