Erin Rochford - Trainee health & safety advisor at Carney Consultancy
What were your career ambitions growing up?
I wanted to be a paramedic or a nurse. I had a change of heart and became interested in a career in construction when I was on holiday with my family. I noticed a number of health and safety issues and pointed them out to my dad, regarding the hotel we were staying in. My dad, who has a career in construction, advised that a health and safety role may be of interest to me.
Before joining Carney Consultancy, I spent three years working within the local council as a health & safety apprentice before I was appointed a health and safety CDM assistant.
Tell us about your current role?
As a trainee health & safety advisor I undertake a lot of site inspections as part of my training. I accompany to site colleagues Jamie Clark, health & safety advisor and Sarah James, senior health & safety consultant.
I am also undertaking my UK Fire Door Training qualification. This is a nationally recognised qualification for fire door installation, maintenance and inspection. I am working closely with my colleague, Steve Harkness, who is providing training and support to both myself and Kerry Benson, health & safety assistant.
To advance myself further, I am also preparing to undertake my NEBOSH construction certificate. At the end of the month I will stay in Manchester for two weeks. The course provides a valuable overview of the core aspects of occupational health and safety, equipping me with the skills to manage and assess workplace risk effectively.
How does your role benefit your learning?
A great deal! I get to put into practice the theory side of the role that I am learning when I am out helping to undertake site inspections. My role is also always varied and no day is ever the same, which I love.
Tell us about your team
I am fortunate to work with a really helpful team who have progressed their skill set with the company and are more than happy to pass on their knowledge to me.
As previously mentioned, I work closely with my colleagues Sarah James and Jamie Clark when it comes to being on site and Steve Harkness is mentoring me for my Fire Door Training.
What is the best piece of advice that you have been given?
Always ask questions. No question is too silly.
How do you like to unwind outside of work?
I like to relax by seeing my friends and enjoy lots of walks with my dogs. I have a German Shephard and two French bull dogs.
www.carneyconsultancy.co.uk