The Fork Lift Truck Association FLTA announced the recipient of its Safety Champion award: Sean Gilbert of 3M Atherstone.

The award, sponsored by Briggs Equipment UK, recognises those who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to improving site safety for everyone working with or alongside fork lift trucks.

As the winner of this year’s honour, Sean received a commemorative plaque and a cheque for £250.

Sean, who was previously employed as a fork lift driver at the site, joined 3M’s Health and Safety Group earlier this year.

By utilising his extensive operator experience, he’s significantly improved pedestrian and vehicle safety at the well-established site by proactively engaging staff at all levels in open and honest discussions.

His achievements include:
• Development and delivery of exceptionally engaging training on pedestrian safety - from the driver’s point of view
• Physical separation of pedestrians and vehicles, along with changes to layouts of operating areas and work routines
• Representing the Health & Safety Group on capital investment projects to ensure fork lift truck and pedestrian safety were considered
• Supporting the physical installation of plant and equipment by reviewing truck movement and lifting plans

His experience as an operator, coupled with health and safety knowledge gained through studies for a NEBOSH National General Certificate, has enabled Sean to support the site’s warehouse operations team as the subject matter expert for improving traffic routes and layout.

FLTA Chief Executive, Peter Harvey MBE, said: “Sean’s efforts are clearly worthy of this accolade. He’s demonstrated a clear vision of how things should be on site… and the dedication to make that a reality.

“It’s leaders and innovators like him who are working tirelessly to make our workplaces safer places. It gives the Association great pleasure to give him the credit he deserves. We hope that his success will inspire others to instigate safety initiatives of their own.”