We are delighted to announce that John Wainwright & Co. Ltd has won the Safer Transport & Logistics Award at the Mineral Products Association (MPA) Health & Safety Awards 2026.

The award recognises a simple but highly effective engineering solution developed by our team to make transporting plant equipment safer for our drivers and eliminate working from height.

Turning a Safety Challenge into an Industry-Leading Solution

Every day, our contracting division transports JCB 3CX Compact backhoe loaders between sites using HGV low-loaders. Before each journey, the machines must be securely chained to the trailer.

The original factory tie-down points on the machines meant our drivers had to climb onto the top section of the trailer to attach the chains. Although this had long been accepted as part of the job, it introduced an unnecessary risk of working at height which is one of the leading causes of serious workplace accidents.

Working closely with our HGV driver’s, Matthew Moore, General Contracting Manager designed a practical solution that allows the machines to be secured entirely from ground level. By introducing a bespoke dual-height tie-down system, drivers no longer need to climb onto the trailer, making the process safer, quicker and more comfortable.

Making a Real Difference

The new system has transformed a routine task by:

• Eliminating the need to work at height when securing machinery.
• Reducing the time drivers spend loading and securing equipment.
• Minimising exposure to live traffic when working near public highways.
• Improving comfort by removing the need to kneel, lie down or work in awkward positions.
• Helping ensure machinery is secured consistently and safely every time.

The result is a safer process for our drivers and greater confidence that our equipment is transported securely.

Setting a New Standard

What started as an idea has gone on to influence equipment design beyond John Wainwright & Co.

Following the success of the project, the machine manufacturer has introduced additional low-level tie-down points on new machines supplied to us. These are installed during manufacture and fully certified, demonstrating how practical innovation on site can help shape future industry standards.

We have also made low-level tie-down points a requirement at procurement stage for all future machinery purchased by the business.

Proud to Be Recognised

Winning this award is a fantastic achievement and a reflection of the innovation, teamwork and commitment to safety shown across the business.

At John Wainwright & Co, we believe the safest solution is often the simplest one. By listening to our people and engineering out unnecessary risks, we’re creating safer ways of working not just for our own teams, but with ideas that can benefit the wider industry.

We would like to thank the Mineral Products Association for this recognition and congratulate all of the other finalists and winners.

Pictured below is Matthew Bishop, SHE Manager and Lee Seviour, Contracting Director accepting the award at the MPA Awards 2026