Global inspection and nondestructive testing specialist Applus RTD has become the first firm in its sector to achieve three key industry benchmarks from the International Organization for Standardization.

Applus RTD UK Ltd. has secured ISO 14001 certification in recognition of its environmental management standards – in addition to the ISO 9001 quality management and ISO 18001 occupational health and safety accreditation it already holds.

The award comes as the Scottish Environment Protection Agency and National Business Environment Partnership organization encourage companies to work towards the achieving the mark, which can improve profitability while reducing environmental impact.

Applus RTD UK Ltd., formerly MB Inspection, which has bases in Aberdeen and Falkirk, United Kingdom, delivers comprehensive inspection and integrity management services, specialist training in areas such as rigging and lifting, roof-top safety and manual handling awareness as well as emergency first aid.

The company was recognized by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) in 2008, having achieved 10 consecutive RoSPA gold awards, with the Presidents Award in recognition of its sustained commitment to health and safety.

Health and safety manager Jack Gillespie, who has responsibility for operations at all bases, said the award of the third standard was a first for a UK company and praised staff for ensuring its success.

“These standards are awarded as a result of consistent high performance by our staff across all divisions of our business, and in every location we operate in – we have to work very hard to meet and beat the ISO’s criteria,” says Gillespie.

“Our competence is tested on an ongoing basis, ensuring that our operations do not fall below the high level set by the organization in what is an absolutely vital area of operations in all areas of testing.

“We were the first British firm to be awarded 18001 last year, making this achievement all the more important as we now have the highest level of certification of any business in the sector in the UK.”

Employing 350 staff in the UK, the company has offices in Aberdeen, Falkirk, Teesside and Great Yarmouth, United Kingdom. Applus RTD UK Ltd., formerly MB Inspection, was acquired by Dutch based inspection firm Applus RTD at the beginning of 2008.

Recognized for its innovation and design technology, the company also has a dedicated research and development facility in Rotterdam where the firm continues to invest in R&D.