Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
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Leeds Met lecturer appointed IOSH President
Tim Briggs, Senior Lecturer in the School of Health and Wellbeing was installed as the new President of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) at a ceremony on the 5th November. Tim is the course leader for the BSc (Hons) BSc Honours Safety, Health and Environmental Management, as well as the PG Dip in Occupational Safety and Health.
During the last year serving his "apprenticeship" as President Elect Tim has been busy using his IOSH overseas trips to promote the courses at Leeds Met, whilst visiting Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong.
Tim said that becoming President of IOSH is a "great honour":
"I'm looking forward to advocating the Institution's aims and values nationally and internationally, and to representing an organisation that I'm passionate about. The aims and values IOSH have, also reflect those we promote at Leeds Met. I also believe this is recognition of the belief and faith that many others have had in me, and I have valued this support in helping me develop and learn".
"Health and safety is a burgeoning profession, and it's something that is vital to an efficient, profitable business. Tragically, 148 people were killed at work in Britain last year, while more than 12,000 died from diseases triggered by what they've done for a living. Health and safety professionals in the industry help thwart accidents and tackle ill-health caused by workplace activities.
"My aim is to help people grasp the real reasons we have, and need, health and safety in society. It's about sensible balance, not officious hot air, and I'm looking forward to working with government to try and further understanding of the value of occupational health and safety."
Mr Briggs' career has been extraordinarily diverse. He has worked as a teacher, a train driver, a soldier and as a nurse before starting his health and safety career in the rail industry. He holds a Masters degree in training and development, an adult teacher training certificate and a postgraduate diploma in occupational safety and health. Tim was also the proud recipient of the Lord Lieutenants' Certificate, a military award just below the MBE, and also has received a police and magistrates' commendation for bravery.
He is a former chair of the IOSH Yorkshire Branch, and has been instrumental in driving forward a scheme of mentoring among the health and safety profession. He succeeds Gerard Hand - president for the past year.