BSIF celebrates the best in health and safety

Posted on Friday 1 January 2010

On 7th October, the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) hosted its Networking Event and Gala Dinner, that saw the presentation of three awards to recognise the hard work and contribution of individuals and companies from within the industry.

New this year was the CEO Award, which was presented to David Leonard, for his outstanding contribution to the progress and reputation of both the BSIF and the health and safety industry. This was followed by the Outstanding Corporate Contribution Award, presented to Safesite Ltd, who has been an especially committed resource to BSIF work to improve safety. The last award of the evening was the Outstanding Contribution Award, sponsored by The McOnie Agency, which for the first time this year was awarded to two individuals, John Thorne and Mike Ramirez.

Commenting on the awards, David Lummis, BSIF CEO said: “We work in an industry that is often misrepresented but the fact is that our collective work helps save the lives of many workers every year. It is an industry that has to manage the dichotomies of risk management in an engaging way, ensuring safe practice, with the need for innovative ideas of high quality, reliable products that are affordable.

I would like to congratulate this year’s award winners, all of whom have positively contributed to helping change and improve the health and safety industry.”

Winner of the CEO award, David Leonard, has travelled widely to lecture and offer advice to prevent occupational deafness. His many years of experience in the safety market, linked to his technical expertise make him one of the true luminaries of the UK safety industry. Outstanding Contribution Award winner John Thorne has been involved in a number of BSIF committees and activities including the BSIF ‘It’s in your hands’ campaign, and Mike Ramirez – has been at the forefront of the anti-counterfeit and illegal product campaign mounted by the BSIF. Both winners have become respected members of the safety industry through the work they have carried out. Outstanding Corporate Contribution Award winner, Safetsite Ltd, has actively helped the BSIF to ensure the UK voice is heard when it comes to CE standards for working at height. All the winners of this year’s BSIF awards have positively and actively contributed to changing the health and safety industry.