The
National Metals Technology Centre (NAMTEC) and E9 Limited
are collaborating on a pilot project to help metal finishing
companies meet the growing demands of environmental legislation.
Six companies from the sector are being identified by E9
and NAMTEC to benefit from assistance and to form a cluster.
The project is a pilot where the points learned are planned
to be applied more widely in this and other sectors. Each
company will undertake an individual project and collaborate
and share best practice, for example the implementation
of ISO14001, the development of a safety management system,
developing better technology or working towards IPPC (Integrated
Pollution Prevention and Control).
The cluster will meet regularly to share experiences, and
take part in site visits and discussions forums. Consultancy
expertise will be provided to those companies who need it.
It is hoped the scheme will be extended if the one-year
pilot is successful.
Richard Ball, NAMTEC chief executive said: “The development
of this experience and knowledge is essential if the UK
metals industry is to remain competitive. I look forward
to seeing the benefits this project will bring to the metal
finishing sector.”
NAMTEC is a not for profit organisation established to
increase the competitiveness of the UK metals industry.
Services include a technical helpline, signposting to the
science base and project management. NAMTEC is financed
by the Department of Trade and Industry, Yorkshire Forward
and the European Union’s Objective One Programme.
John Trainor, managing director of E9 Ltd said: “Times
are tough for UK manufacturing however, innovation and change
applied to working practices and business norms give companies
a significant competitive advantage. Our experience of working
with cluster networks shows that companies experience mutual
advantages through shared practices including lower implementation
costs and increased speed in achieving planned objectives
and targets.”
The project will assist both SME (Small Medium-sized Enterprises)
and larger companies across the UK. Some companies are expected
to be selected from the South Yorkshire area.
