b'HSQE DEPARTMENTAstimepassed,Irealisedthatthe transientnatureofproject-based work and constant relocation werent aligningwithmylong-termcareer aspirations. In August 1998, just two daysaftercompletingmyMasters DegreeinCivilEngineeringand Management,IembarkedonwhatI believed would be a lifelong journey in the field of telecommunications. Joining as a Quality Manager for our poling contract, I was eager to make my mark in the industry.I completed my placement work experience with an individual who had previously enjoyed a flourishing career at Kelly Group. Intrigued by the prospect of a different T his moment marked the beginning ofprofessional path, I decided to reach out to the business on their recommendation. This moment marked the beginning of an unexpected and immensely rewarding an unexpected and immensley rewardingjourney. Little did I know, this leap of faith would not only redefine my career path but also help to discover a newfound passion for a realm of opportunities within journey. Kelly Group. Currently, I am the Groups Health and Safety Manager, supporting all various departments under our group umbrella brand, for the Rail contacts I also have quality and environmental responsibilities. Im immensely grateful for the support I received throughout my career, whenever there was a new qualification that I was interested in and believed would benefit the company or opportunities to expand my role, my career moves were always encouraged and appreciated.My role involves a wide breadth of responsibilities. A few of these responsibilities include contributing to HSQE policies and procedures and ensuring that they align with specific needs and objectives required. I work within compliance management, making sure we comply with all applicable health, safety, quality, and environmental regulations. Developing risk management strategies and implementing controls to minimise risks and prevent accidents, injuries, and environmental incidents and much more. I look at documentation for new methods of working ensuring we do this legally and safely. I represent the company at client meetings, industry forums and sit on risk panels.I also look after our expecting mothers ensuring they are physically and mentally safe and supported throughout this beautiful period.I find enjoyment in my role in that no two days are ever the same, nor have they ever been. Im also extremely proud to be the person pioneering our mental health first aider initiative. Mental Health affects more people than you think and the best way to deal with a crisis is prevention. We are here for anyone whos struggling to cope and needs someone to listen without judgement or pressure. If you need to speak to a first aider in confidence, their names and pictures are on your health & safety noticeboards.Imalsopassionateaboutdistributinghealthcheckinformation highlighting small things that people can monitor, for example our mole awareness poster actually resulted in an individual catching a cancerous mole on time as they were reminded to book a health check by one of our posters. The best safety tip I can give is please ensure that every agenda and meeting start with a safety converstaion.The Networker Spring 2024 29.'