A leading UK acoustic insulation systems manufacturer, Hush Acoustics, has invested in the safety and sustainability of its commercial vehicle fleet by achieving Gold status in the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS).

The company operates a small but growing fleet of vehicles to deliver its range of acoustic solutions to customers across the UK, including 26 tonne wagons with Moffett fork truck offload. Its products and systems are specified for providing acoustic walls, floors and ceilings in many different types of domestic, commercial and public sector projects, including schools and listed building renovations.

The widely recognised and voluntary FORS scheme has helped to promote best practices in safety, efficiency, and environmental performance for fleet operators across the UK since 2008, offering three levels of accreditation: Bronze, Silver, and Gold. In stepping up to the FORS Gold level, Hush Acoustics has formalised the efficiency of its fleet operations with a respected industry approval that is becoming increasingly important to construction projects.

With each level representing a higher level of achievement, the Gold standard requires fleet operators to meet the most stringent criteria, and this is now being demanded for certain contracts in London. In April 2024, TfL (Transport for London) announced that FORS Gold (or an equivalent accreditation) is now mandatory for commercial vehicles delivering goods to construction sites managed by the Greater London Authority Group in contracts worth £1 million and over.

Fleet operators like Hush Acoustics who are awarded Gold accreditation are able to confirm that they employ good practice and comply with the requirements laid out by the FORS Standard. This includes demonstrating dedication to driver and vehicle safety, combined with improving operating practices through effective monitoring of fuel and tyre usage.

Securing FORS Gold accreditation is the latest step in Hush Acoustics’ sustainability strategy which considers the environmental, social and economic impacts of its operations. The company has already invested in achieving a number of other widely acknowledged certifications as part of this strategy.

These include FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification for all its timber-based acoustic products, demonstrating that the timber it uses is sourced sustainably. And also Carbon Neutral Britain Certification, which sets high standards in measuring, calculating and carbon offsetting organisational carbon emissions within the Scope 1, 2 and 3 GHG emissions boundaries.

Rob Crampton, Managing Director of Hush Acoustics said: “Achieving FORS Gold is an important step for us as it confirms our commitment to operating the Hush fleet in a way that has minimal impact on the world around us. Our factory operations are subject to strict health and safety procedures, as well as processes designed to maintain efficiency in the use of resources, and these same standards apply for the team involved in delivering to site.

“We can ensure consistency of our standards because we operate our own fleet, which means we do not have the uncertainty of relying on third parties to undertake the final – and perhaps most important – stage of our customer service. Our drivers fully endorse FORS too, which means we are all on the same page when it comes to maintaining the highest standards.”

To find out more about Hush Acoustics visit www.hushacoustics.co.uk.