A security system which has revolutionised working practices at a Haworth firm has helped the business win national industry recognition.

Airedale Springs was runner-up in the EEF North East Region Innovative Operating Practices Awards.

The Worth Valley company makes springs, wire forms, clips and pressings.

Its £3.5 million factory – The Spring Works in Bridgehouse Lane – was opened in November, replacing the company’s former home in Ebor Mills, which was destroyed by fire two years ago.

Keighley-based Keybury Fire and Security was engaged to provide on-site security at the new premises. Airedale Springs chairman, Tim Parkinson, said the technology installed has produced major benefits and cost savings.

He explained the new CCTV system can provide remote 24-hour surveillance of both premises and unmanned machinery via Smartphones.

He said: “Remote access to CCTV cameras positioned to view all our machines, which are capable of running 24/7, now enables operatives to view high-quality live images. The system has proved invaluable in identifying problems at an early stage and preventing production of waste products.

“The project has significantly improved our performance. We’re now able to run our machinery overnight and at weekends, increasing our production capacity almost fourfold.

Patrick Beebe, operations director with Keybury Fire and Security, said: “CCTV cameras are increasingly being used to monitor machinery live in the workplace via laptops, iPads and Smartphones, allowing users to quickly respond in the event of a problem.”

As well as finishing runner-up, Airedale Springs was also shortlisted for the Environmental Efficiency Award, for the environmentally-friendly innovations incorporated into its premises.

These include solar panels and low-energy lighting, designed to meet new European energy efficiency guidelines.