Alfred McAlpine Slate Ltd in Wales were one of just 40 organisations worldwide to receive the British Safety Council\'s Sword of Honour for health and safety in the latest awards ceremony at the historic Goldsmith\'s Hall in London.

The Sword of Honour, acknowledged as the pinnacle of safety achievement, recognises organisations that have implemented safety systems that are among the best in world. Only organisations that achieve the maximum rating in the Council\'s Five Star Health, Safety, Ethical & Environmental Management System Audit are eligible to apply.

Organisations also have to prove they have a culture of aiming for best practice, promoted from the boardroom to the shop floor.

The Sword of Honour was presented to Chris Law, managing director of Alfred McAlpine Slate, owners and operators of the Penrhyn, Cwt-y-Bugail and Ffestiniog natural slate quarries in North Wales, by David Ballard, director general of the British Safety Council.

The presentation of the Sword cam after the company had achieved a top class Five Star rating following a comprehensive Health, Safety, Ethical & Environmental Management System Audit by the British Safety Council.

The audit awards organisations between one and five stars depending on the effectiveness of their health and safety systems. Every aspect of the workplace is examined, from fire control systems and first aid provision to waste management and hygiene.

Chris Law said afterwards: "The winning of this award reflects the commitment of the McAlpine Group to achieving the highest possible standards of health and safety management. The award is a testament to our employees\' dedication to creating a safer and healthier workplace."

David Ballard added: "Alfred McAlpine Slate Ltd can take pride in winning this award. Successful businesses manage health and safety like every other part of the business. Implementing effective management systems at the outset can help reduce costs, improve profitability and assure employees that their safety is at the heart of the business."