Freight Operator Recognition Scheme - Dan Evanson

The Freight Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) has more than 400 members, with 1,300 depots, which account for 55,000 vehicles across London. In a little over three years since our formal launch, we’re proud that we’re helping large numbers of operators to save money and become safer, greener and more efficient.

Our members range from multinationals with hundreds of vehicles in the Capital to others who operate just a single van.  All are welcome to join FORS, all are equally valued and, most importantly, all benefit from their membership.

In partnership with key industry bodies we have designed a scheme that takes into account the specific needs of the freight, goods and servicing industry and makes a positive difference to both our members and to everyone else who shares London’s roads with them.  Crucially, we aim to recognise, reward and promote the best practice behaviours that we know are taking place.

Perhaps the most popular FORS benefit has proved to be our workshops.  These have been a success right from the early days of FORS and we continually see good attendance levels and receive very positive feedback.  The series of five Work Related Road Safety workshops is a particular favourite and has the distinction of being available to FORS companies that have yet to achieve bronze status.  The workshops also include interactive demonstrations of other FORS benefits to allow members to see them first hand and ask any questions they may have.  We will also be unveiling a range of new additions to the benefits bundle over the next few weeks so keep checking our website.

Members are also beginning to report how having gained membership they have been in a stronger position to show their green credentials.  Indeed, gaining FORS bronze membership status is designed in part to help you prove just how seriously you take CSR issues.  We are also starting to see how this commitment to sustainability is benefiting FORS members as they are viewed favourably by procurement teams on projects of all sizes.

The next stage of FORS development will be the introduction of gold membership.  In January 2011 we will announce our first gold members and confirm the status of those companies who meet the finalised silver criteria.

So, if you haven’t already signed up to FORS, I’d urge you to; it’s free to join and if you already have procedures in place to ensure that you’re a safe, green and efficient  operator we can help you promote your good work.  If you need a bit of guidance on how to develop these aspects of your business we can help you with that too.  What have you got to lose?

Dan Evanson is FORS Manager for Transport for London.  If you are interested in becoming a FORS member call the FORS helpline: 020 3054 1016, e-mail: fors@tfl.gov.uk or visit: www.tfl.gov.uk/fors

Published: 06/08/2010