Second success for EPC

EPC-UK, an industry leader in the field of commercial explosives and blasting, has been presented with the prestigious MPQC trophy at this year’s MPA (Mineral Products Association) Health and Safety Awards – becoming the only company to receive the accolade twice.

The award, achieved for demonstrating Behavioural Safety, Safety Culture and Leadership, was bestowed upon EPC-UK for a second time in recognition of its ‘Commit to be Fit’ initiative.

“The health, safety and wellbeing of our employees has always been our top priority, but with 250 employees across five different operating divisions nationwide, it has been a challenge to engage with them all effectively,” said managing director Ben Williams.

“This is why Commit to be Fit was created.”

The Commit to be Fit programme originated from EPC-UK looking more closely at the health and wellbeing of its staff and a desire to encourage them to live more active, healthier lifestyles, both in and out of work.

One resulting activity was the 100 km Challenge, which aimed to encourage employees to get out of the office and walk one kilometre (0.6 miles) every day.

“Simple activities, such as the 100k Challenge, have really helped to bring health and wellbeing to the forefront of people’s priorities and the results have been life-changing,” said Ben.

“One member of our team took up cycling to improve his fitness and has lost four stone in weight as a consequence.

“We have also seen a reduction in absence levels, to less than 1.5%.”