RRS becomes a full LEEA member

UK-based lifting, transport and storage specialist, Rapid Response Solutions (RRS), has passed its final audit and been named a full member of the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA). LEEA is a representative body for all those involved in the lifting industry worldwide.

It has taken RRS two years to achieve full LEEA membership, which is only available to companies that are ‘engaged for profit in the verification of lifting equipment, and which, in the opinion of the [LEEA] directors, is competent and can give an adequate service’.

Paul Barber, managing director at RRS, said: “After the first audit they set us a training matrix to help develop our staff. We then had to select a certain number of skilled staff in each discipline to take LEEA training courses. We’re proud to have marked successful completion of this rigorous audit process and welcome the association’s [annual] follow-up audits to ensure we continue to meet and exceed these high standards.

“These aren’t just ‘turn up and pass’ types of courses. A lot of work goes into getting the qualifications. The feedback from all our guys that have taken courses was very positive; the facilities, course structure and presentation materials are first-class. The process to gain membership has thusly been hugely rewarding but the exciting part is we can now begin to leverage the benefits of illustrious full member status.

“Being a member of LEEA gives us access to a wealth of lifting know-how, backed by technical ability from members with varying skills across the world. Eventually, I would like to be involved with the technical committees and at some point join the board. I have worked in this industry for almost 30 years now and have a lot of experience to share.

“We carry out projects globally so having an internationally-recognised accreditation is a benefit. If international clients have projects in the UK it also helps them recognise companies who are suitably qualified. LEEA has the task of unifying legislation between countries and bringing all countries into line from a health and safety standpoint, which is something that interests me greatly. Put simply, if each country worked to the same regulations the industry would become a safer place to work.”