A FIRE safety firm aims to secure further contracts after a top commendation from an industry body.

MacDonald Martin has been given a National Security Inspectorate (NSI) gold award for its commitment to upholding high standards across British and European benchmarks.

The accolade comes just weeks after the Sunderland-based company picked up a deal to maintain fire safety operations across hundreds of Sheffield County Council buildings, and Andy Trafford, owner and director, said NSI’s backing will provide further ballast to gain more contracts.

He said: “Gold is the highest level that can be awarded.

“The reason we are so successful is because we listen to clients’ needs and take the time to find out exactly what they want.

“It sets the tone for a successful year.

“The Sheffield contract will open a lot of doors, as will the new accreditation.”

The business is known for carrying out fire risk assessments and supplying extinguishers and alarms.

Based on the Leechmere Industrial Estate, it works with customers including Wearside housing association Gentoo and Sunderland City Council.