The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has presented Sainsbury’s regional distribution centre at Basingstoke with an award for mechanical handling equipment (MHE) compliance.

Mechanical handling equipment is a vital part of the supply chain, and with that in mind Sainsbury’s applies the same standards to this part of the business as to its road vehicle fleet.  FTA audits ensure compliance, with the key areas of focus being the standard of daily checks and maintenance provision.  There is huge emphasis on MHE operational awareness, with Sainsbury’s warehouse management team undergoing an MHE awareness course to increase understanding of best practice procedures.
 
David Wylie, FTA’s general manager – contract management, who presented the award said: “FTA has been running its Roadworthiness awards scheme since 2008, and we decided this year to widen its scope and recognise the invaluable role that the MHE operation plays in the logistics supply chain.  In deciding the winner of the inaugural award, within Sainsbury’s operation, we looked at the results of the MHE maintenance systems audits and fleet condition. 

"The Basingstoke depot stood out in particular, as the site had two clean systems audits this year, and this outstanding performance was achieved whilst undergoing significant changes to the operation. On behalf of FTA I am delighted to present the Basingstoke depot with our MHE compliance award for 2014.”
 
 

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