SAFETY experts at the British Standards Institute are to investigate Warrington chemical firm Vinamul after a complaint by a former worker.

Barry Beardall wrote to query the kite mark award and highlighted his concerns about health risks to employees at the firm and the watchdog has agreed to investigate.

The move follows claims from the former worker that monitoring equipment used at the firm failed to monitor chemical levels effectively, leaving workers exposed to substances at dangerous levels.

Barry said: "This company has operated by a process which conflicts with the BSI standards.

"I am glad to hear that now they are investigating, they don't deserve this kitemark award.

"I hope that this will prompt the health and safety executive and the Environment Agency to scrutinise processes at the firm.

"All they say is that they comply now but that's not good enough. I can't forget the past, the damage has been done."

The BSI kitemark recognises product standards and quality management. Inspectors also boast world class expertise in product testing and environmental management.

Vinamul are registered with the BSI, and inspectors monitor the effectiveness of the management systems on a six or 12 months basis.

A spokesman for the firm said: "Vinamul Limited confirms that it has been accredited to ISO 9002 standard for more than 10 years and ISO 14001 standard for two years.

"The British Standards Institute carries out routine audits every six months to ensure that Vinamul continues to meet the high standards required.

"The most recent audit was carried out in November 2000 and confirmed that Vinamul continues to meet the standards. The company is confident of maintaining its fine record in this area."