A growing Bradford chemical firm has won a European award for putting health and safety at the top of its agenda.

Oils and Soaps, based in Rutland Street, was yesterday presented with a trophy to mark its achievement by Bradford's Lord Mayor, Councillor Tony Miller.

The firm's health and safety policies are proving such a hit other companies now want to know about them.

The firm attracted 30 firms to an open day recently when it explained how its policy works.

The award is from the European Commission and marks the extensive efforts Oils and Soaps has made to make sure its 65 staff do not have accidents at work.

The bronze trophy was handed over to the company's quality and safety manager Robert Clarke and managing director Frank Braithwaite.

Mr Braithwaite said: "Oils and Soaps takes health and safety extremely seriously and it has involved a big commitment at both management and staff levels.

"Every person in the company shares the credit for this award."

Among the measures which impressed European Commission officials were a series of guides for employees which combined blending processing information with safety hints.

The firm has worked closely with the West Yorkshire Euro Info Centre which is managed by Bradford Council.

The centre, which is based in Mercury House, provides advice on EU health and safety regulations.

The Lord Mayor, Coun Tony Miller, said: "Safety at work is paramount.

"Meeting stringent EU regulations on health and safety is important to any responsible employers today and also makes good business sense."

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