THE BP-operated Central Area Transmission System (Cats) Terminal, at Seal Sands, Middlesbrough, brought home its fourth safety award from the British Safety Council's annual safety awards held in London yesterday.

The terminal has been awarded the council's Sword of Honour, its highest accolade, after a rigorous assessment by an independent panel of safety experts.

The award recognises the terminal's commitment to safety, which is demonstrated through its record of receiving three previous swords in 1998,1999 and as Amoco Cats in 1997.

The terminal, which processes gas from North Sea gas fields, was recognised as an organisation that has successfully implemented safety systems that protect the people, plant, equipment and the environment and increases productivity and profitability.

The sword is awarded to only 40 companies worldwide each year.