Health and Safety - Case Studies

Simon Watson

Safety Health Environmental & Quality Advisor Simon Watson, 27, left the Infantry as a Corporal last year after nine years of operational and peace-time service. He wanted a more settled life, and already held a number of health and safety qualifications. He also rates ‘man-management skills, the ability to relate to individuals and understand the problems they face, and learning that that there is always a bigger picture,’ as other qualities developed in Army service.

A Career Transition Workshop was useful in the creation of CV, while resettlement training with Corporate Risk Systems Limited provided ‘advice that was right on the money as this course with the subsequent qualification helped to find a job within the health and safety arena. Very friendly and approachable with excellent training facilities.’

His role is to ensure that the workforce, from operatives to senior management, works to the required standards and offer coaching and advice. Watson carries out safety presentations and training, conducts audits on management safety systems, and reviews and amends policies and procedures.

‘I like the responsibility and the challenge of the job. It is a very high risk environment and I get to spend a lot of time outdoors interacting with different people and cultures not too different from the Army. Especially with work loads, the ability to manage your time effectively is paramount. It can be very hectic and sometimes you feel the pace. I work pretty early and long hours.’

Published April 07