The Northallerton-headquartered service operates one of the safest fleets in the country and preventing road traffic crashes from occurring is a key focus. It is additionally recognised as a world leader in the extrication of people from road traffic incidents.

Chris Anderson, deputy chief fire officer, said that the service is committed to delivering efficient management processes that ensure high standards of health and safety and service delivery.

He commented: 'By challenging our own arrangements through this system we can see positive benefits in the way we manage our day-to-day business and emergency response requirements. The investment made in going through the process of becoming a "business champion" pays real dividends in terms of business efficiencies, staff safety and overall service delivery to the communities of North Yorkshire.'

He also said that the service hopes that its success in becoming the first blue light organisation to achieve business champion status under the campaign will lead to an increased focus by other fire and rescue services on managing occupational road risk.

He commented: 'It is very pleasing to be the first fire and rescue service to become a business champion. The scheme is an excellent way of promoting not only the importance of road safety to businesses and the public sector but also highlights the operating efficiencies to be gained as a consequence of implementing the good practice measures identified through the process.'