The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority

Dounreay's clean-up contractor has won the highest international safety award from the British Safety Council.

Dounreay Site Restoration Ltd achieved a coveted five-star safety rating in May, which made the company eligible to work towards the Sword of Honour award.

The Sword of Honour is the most prestigious international health and safety accolade that a company can receive, and it is designed to encourage and reward organisations that work to best practice.

Every year only 40 swords are awarded world-wide, so winners can be assured that they are among the best in their class for health and safety.

DSRL's Assurance director Tony Wratten congratulated the site on its achievement.

"The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority strongly encourages its sites to achieve high levels of safety," he said.

"To achieve such a world-class award like this means that our commitment to a positive safety culture has been recognised.  Our staff, contractors and safety representatives can feel proud that they are helping us to be one of the safest workplaces in Britain."

Randall Bargelt, the NDA's Regional Director, said: "Working in such a complex, hazardous, industry means that we have to be at the top of our game 24/7 when it comes to the wellbeing of everyone involved – and the NDA is delighted to see DSRL recognised for their exemplary commitment to health and safety".

The award ceremony took place at the end of last year.