SMALL and medium-sized firms throughout the UK construction industry are set to benefit from a new health and safety standard.

It has been pioneered by Bolton and Bury Chamber in partnership with training providers Hardaker & Associates Ltd.

OCR1322 helps firms introduce management systems and procedures which ensure best practice in health and safety and meet legal requirements such as Construction Design and Management (CDM).

Mr Steve Horrocks, Health and Safety Manager for the Chamber, said: "It is the definitive seal of quality in health and safety for small firms in the construction industry.

"As well as raising awareness of health and safety in the workplace, this programme will help companies boost their reputation, efficiency and profitability."

One of the first six firms in the country to work towards the new standard is Extruded Window Systems Ltd in River Street, Bolton.

Chief Executive David Coleman says OCR1322 is helping the company gain a place on the tender lists for major construction projects.

It has recently secured a £200,000 contract for the Bolton Arena currently taking shape near the Reebok Stadium.

Mr Coleman said: "The new management procedures we have introduced enable us to assure major contractors of our level of professionalism and attention to detail.

"This is one reason why we are on target to grow our business by 25 per cent this year."

Grosvenor Windows in Manchester Road, Bolton is also boosting its standards of health and safety with the qualification.

The programme contains an induction and assessment within the workplace and incorporates 24 hours of practical hands-on training and development sessions which are geared to the needs of individual companies.