MEGAMAS Training Company Sdn Bhd, of Kuala Belait, has scooped a prestigious safety award from one of the world's leading training and advisory bodies for the second consecutive year.

Following gruelling tests by a strict independent adjudicating panel, Megamas, one of the leading training providers worldwide offering over 150 HSE and consultancy courses to internationally recognised standards in the oil/gas industry, construction, and other industries, was given the esteemed International Safety Award by the British Safety Council.

Only companies with below average accident rates are eligible to apply and winners must also have good safety policies, plans and commitment to health and safety at the highest board level.

They must detail their health and safety officers' qualifications and provide information about significant advances they have made in health and safety for the year.

Mr David Ballard, Chief Executive of the British Safety Council, says: "For nearly fifty years we have led the way in promoting health, safety and environmental best practice in society. In the 21st century, many organisations worldwide are now making health and safety a top priority. Through achieving an International Safety Award, Megamas is helping to make our vision of a safe working environment a reality".

Prime Minister Tony Blair added his support: "I send my congratulations to all of those organisations being presented with an award by the British Safety Council. These awards recognise the success that these organisations worldwide and their employees have achieved in their pursuit of excellence in the management of health, safety and environmental matters. The Government would like to place on record it appreciation of the support given by the Council in raising awareness of the benefits that effective health, safety and environmental management brings to business, employees and the environment".