What do you do for your day job?
I have my run my own HS consultancy (SafetyToobox Ltd) specialising in the ecclesiastical sector as well as working with clients in the commercial world.
What is a typical day’s work for you?
One of the great things about working for yourself is there’s no ‘typical day. I could be working with a client, doing company admin, researching material for our online reference library, working on our in house software or being the office cleaner!
How did you become a member of the London Safety Group committee?
I took up the invite from the committee to retire to the pub after meetings. This is where they ply you with drink and suggest you sign up!
What benefits do you feel that the Group bring for you?
When you work for yourself you can feel a bit isolated professionally. It’s good to meet up with other like minded professionals and swap ideas. The meetings are a great way to keep your CPD up to date and enjoy it at the same time!
What do you find the most interesting part of your role within the Group?
That’s tricky to answer as I’m new to the committee and just finding my feet. I’m enjoying learning more about how the group works.
What presents the most challenges?
Like anything that relies on volunteers, finding the capacity within your own workload and being mindful that the same applies to everyone else is a challenge. I do a lot of work with churches where most people are volunteers so I’ve learned to be patient!
What’s your health and safety ‘soap-box’ subject?
Like most members, I have no time for tick box HS. It has to be relevant and practical or it isn’t worth doing!
What is your one piece of advice for a practising safety professional?
Be open minded and down to earth. Nobody likes a smart arse and the best solution isn’t always the most obvious or the easiest!
One piece of advice for someone thinking of becoming a health and safety professional?
Qualifications are important but find every opportunity to build on these with experience.
Finally something personal about you not related at all to h&s or your day job.
Something personal about me – I’m a complete ‘Monica’ when it comes to keeping my house in order. Drives my husband and kids nuts!