The latest Hako sweeper has marked its UK debut by receiving a prestigious European accolade.

The Citymaster 1600, seen at last month's RWM Exhibition at the NEC in Birmingham, has been certified and recommended by Germany's Aktion Gesunder Rücken (Campaign for Healthy Backs) and the Association of German Back Therapy Centres.

The state-of-the-art sweeper impressed the two highly respected organisations with its ergonomic design that provides maximum comfort and support for operators.

Sylvie Giangolini, Hako Sales Director, said: 'All our products are designed and built with the operator's safety and comfort in mind, as we understand that keeping them comfortable is a key factor in improving productivity.

'Reducing the risk of back problems also means that less working days are lost through ill health, further reducing costs to the employer - not to mention the very real suffering of the employee.

'In the case of the Citymaster 1600, operators benefit from a full suspension chassis, a range of seating options, spacious cabin, excellent visibility and an innovative, integrated control panel.'

On its debut, the Citymaster 1600 Citycleaner also impressed the crowds at the UK's top event for recycling and waste management professionals and created a stir in the municipal market, with a number of orders placed both before and during the show.

Giangolini added: 'Ahead of its official launch we've had several confirmed orders for the new model from a number of local authorities keen to make the most of its flexibility and performance and multi-functionality.

'The show itself was a huge success and provided the ideal opportunity to meet existing and potential customers while showcasing an impressive selection of cleaning machines.'