A DARTFORD security firm is helping the government of Brazil protect itself from terrorists.

Safety Solutions has been asked to train the South American country's safety and disaster management officers in security.

Executive director Raj Lakha says the opportunity was a great boost for the north Kent business.

"Brazil is keen to learn from the UK and we were honoured to be asked to show the Brazilians how they can identify, assess, manage and prevent disasters," he said.

"After the New York attack, there is a growing realisation that safety must come first."

He explained Safety Solutions, in Mayplace Road East, was picked for the job because it has been helping the International Labour Organisation (ILO) of the UN for the last two years and giving security advice to countries all over the world.

He said: "I have trained safety and disaster management trainers in topics such as minimising disaster potential in industrial plants, the latest techniques on risk management and the role of security following the World Trade Center attack.

"There was considerable interaction and I also learned a lot as to how the Brazilians have had a considerable number of disasters in the oil sector and there is a growing realisation that the industry needs to become more efficient."

Mr Lakha says as well as the firm's international work, it also gives free security advice to local firms worried about safety and emergency preparations.

He said: "Schools, councils and voluntary organisations are welcome to make contact."

November 15, 2001 16:44