Tell us about yourself and what inspired you to pursue a career as a Health and Safety Co-Ordinator?
I served as an Army Section Commander for 14 years and was responsible for enforcing Health and Safety regulations. Throughout my time in the British Army, I delivered annual Health & Safety training as well as Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) training for the Ministry of Defence.
When I left the army in 2022, I wanted to pursue my passion for health and safety and put the skills I’d learnt into practice. Before joining Anwen Construction, I developed my experience outside of the military by working as a Health and Safety Trainer. Now, as a Health and Safety Co-Ordinator in the construction industry, I ensure the safety of everyone both on and off-site. It’s a really important job - we want people to go home safe and sound at the end of every day.
What key skills do you need as a Health and Safety Co-Ordinator?
Aside from a basic knowledge of health and safety, communication skills are essential if you are to effectively work with people up and down the organisational chain. Clear and concise communication is also vital when delivering training as it ensures people engage with, understand and action the potentially life-saving information they learn.
What does your typical day look like?
Anwen Construction has several active sites across the North East at any time, so I’m always out and about, no matter the weather.
When visiting different sites, I conduct regular inspections and audits to identify potential hazards and risks, deliver personal protective equipment and check and update the Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMs) kept on-site.
I might provide safety inductions for new staff members or update health and safety policies, procedures, and guidelines to ensure they remain in line with the latest standards.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Working with the Anwen Construction team. Everyone involved on each site gives me a sense of camaraderie similar to the army. I enjoy meeting new people, building relationships and learning about the construction industry from everyone right across the business.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career like yours?
Believe in yourself! My career background demonstrates that there are many different ways to gain experience and get your foot in the door, making adjacent career moves like I did. Looking into health and safety qualifications is key, as are Construction Management courses if you’re looking to enter this sector. Remember, learning never stops as you always need to be building on your knowledge.
How did you find working with the team at Coleman James?
The whole experience has been brilliant. I was supported by Lauren Robson who was very helpful and guided me through every step of the process. She kept me informed, helped to prepare me for interviews and still stays in touch to make sure I’m doing well. Working with Coleman James has just been great.