A COUNCIL has issued its 100th certificate of inspection to a company.

The community protection service of Middlesbrough Council issued Teesside Hospice Trading Limited with the certificate as proof that the organisation is up to scratch when it comes to implementing the required health and safety standards on its premises.

The scheme, which has been running for seven years, aims to recognise businesses and organisations that clearly meet the required standards where health and safety or food safety standards are regulated by the council.

A commitment to maintaining high standards also has to be demonstrated to the council in order to win the award.

For food safety the community protection service inspects standards of cleanliness and hygiene in premises, food storage, handling and preparation, staff training and facilities.

For health and safety, council officers inspect a range of premises - from cafes to hotels and residential care homes to estate agencies.

The inspection covers the condition of the premises, together with first aid facilities, electrical appliances, safety and noise assessments.

Sheila Bearcroft, charity shops area manager for Teesside Hospice Trading Limited, said; "We are honoured to be receiving the certificate of inspection and feel this acknowledges the hard work and dedication of our staff in relation to health and safety matters within the workplace."