According to the FTA, although an ambulance may not necessarily be recognised as a “van”, the vehicle is still governed by the same rules as any other light goods vehicle. The organisation believes that the accreditation of WMAS is a further demonstration that the Van Excellence scheme is open to all types of van operators regardless of size and sector.
In congratulating WMAS on its accreditation, Mark Cartwright – Head of Vans at FTA said: ‘FTA is delighted to recognise the excellent compliance standards demonstrated at West Midlands Ambulance Service and has therefore awarded it Van Excellence accreditation. It is particularly pleasing to see the commitment that WMAS illustrates in order to achieve the highest standards in such a critical operation and high profile fleet. I live in the West Midlands and am reassured to know that I am in such safe hands.’
Since FTA launched the Van Excellence scheme in 2010 it has accredited a wide variety of large operators which now stands at 75 and includes many high profile businesses such as BT Fleet, Balfour Beatty, British Gas, Sainsbury’s and Network Rail.
Van Excellence was created in order to promote high standards of van operation and driving by accrediting operators against an industry code of good practice. Operators register their interest and receive details of the Van Excellence Code, then present themselves for audit when they are ready.
Van Excellence is supported by its Industry Partners: ATS Euromaster, BT Fleet, Hertz Van Rental, Lex Autolease and TomTom Business Solutions.