Alan Johnson MP opens Arco lab

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Arco has marked its 130th year in operation by becoming the first safety distributor to open its own in-house, independently accredited product assurance laboratory, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to safety.

Former health secretary and secretary of state for trade and industry, Alan Johnson MP, spoke about the importance of ensuring the highest standards of health and safety before opening the new facility. The unveiling ceremony took place on 12 September at Arco's national distribution centre in Hull. The product assurance laboratory offers Arco the facilities to test its own brand and vendor products in-house to ensure that they meet robust quality and safety standards. The safety supplier will test products including high-vis and flame resistant clothing, safety footwear and gloves against EN standards to ensure that they meet or exceed requirements. A product assurance team has been recruited for new product development, quality control testing of new and established products, due diligence testing, product durability and performance testing. The product assurance laboratory has received independent accreditation from SATRA, a leading authority on international legislation and testing. To support the launch of the laboratory, Arco has released a downloadable quality and product assurance guide which outlines the testing process that takes place at this facility.