Leading UK Cargo Handling Operator Strengthens Green Credentials

Solent Stevedores Ltd added ISO 14001 to its ISO 9001 certification. The company began operations in the Port of Southampton in February 2000, and has built up an excellent reputation as a professional cargo handling operator, receiving, handling, and storing a huge variety of products – from animal feed to fertiliser, gypsum, glass, metal, salt, sugar, wood chip, and project cargo like catamarans, yachts, explosives and turbines. “Now more than ever we need to be competitive,” says Rebecca Noakes, Document Controller. “We want to be more attractive to companies, and having ISO 14001 puts us ahead of other companies when tendering for contracts. We want to be a market leader, not a follower.” Solent Stevedores Ltd began work towards ISO 14001 in February 2013. Following advice from their consultant they turned to SGS United Kingdom Ltd to help. SGS carried out a first stage audit, recognised where changes were required, and advised on areas to improve. “We’re a large, diverse company,” says Rebecca Noakes. “Many people in different sections were involved in implementing new work procedures, changing equipment, putting risk assessments in place, adding new working policies and procedures.” Now with ISO 14001 in place, the company is environmentally compliant and ensures that the measures it takes to maintain the standard remain effective. The system is monitored, documented and accessible to all employees. Everyone is aware of the policies, and acts in accordance with them. Internally, the process has re-educated the company, while externally the new standard gives Solent Stevedores Ltd a better standing within the business community. With ISO 14001, the company is well placed to win future contracts. SGS is the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. SGS is recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. With more than 80,000 employees, SGS operates a network of over 1,650 offices and laboratories around the world. Solent Stevedores Ltd is a leading UK cargo handling operator based at the Port of Southampton.

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