GREATER Manchester County Fire Service has received the prestigious Health at work Award - the first award of its kind to be gained by any fire brigade in the country.
County Fire Officer George Almond said: "This award is a direct reflection of the hard work and commitment of our staff.
"Every aspect of employees' occupational health has been addressed, even the more difficult aspects such as stress at work, alcohol and smoking."
The brigade's personnel department developed the occupational health policy which led to the award.
Initiatives
Personnel manager Peter Brook said: "In addition to our health policy, which is aimed at all employees both uniformed and non-uniformed, a number of health initiatives were also implemented.
"These included stress management booklets, healthy eating week, women's health day, no smoking day and a men's health day."
Cllr Peter Grimshaw, of the Fire Authority, said: "It was very pleasing to see how all departments and staff worked together to achieve this award.
"It is now up to everyone to keep up the good work. The potential benefits to individuals and the brigade are enormous."
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