Balcas Timber Ltd in Enniskillen have just received an internationally celebrated health and safety accolade.

It won the coveted Five Star Health and Safety Audit Award following a rigorous inspection.

Winning the award helps organisations fight the staggering annual £18 billion burden on British industry through staff leaving due to long term illness or disability. The audit can help organisations reduce accidents and improve productivity by identifying their health and safety strengths and weaknesses.

Following a comprehensive safety evaluation from world class auditors, organisations are given star ratings – from one to five – to indicate the effectiveness of their safety programmes. Action plans are provided which aim to help companies reduce their insurance premiums and increase repeat business from customers.

Top names in the health and safety industry attended the presentation at the Ironmongers' Hall in London to see Balcas receive the award .

Brian Nimick, Chief Executive of the British Safety Council, says: "A positive company image through first-class health and safety is vital. It not only makes excellent business sense to have the safest workplace possible, but it also boosts the morale of employees.

"I hope other companies will take the lead from Balcas Timber Ltd and forge the way towards a safer future with a Five Star award."