A day in the life of Adrian Sims

How early do you rise?

Between 4am and 6am, dependant on where I am going that day.

 

What gets you out of bed in the morning?

Usually Radio 5 Live or my cat.

 

What do you do?

Design and consult with clients on the control of the hazardous substances they use: primarily LEV systems, but we provide advice on all methods of control.

In between seeing clients I lecture on LEV based training courses, and manage Vent-Tech  -where our team of staff keep me enthused.

 

Where do you work?

Vent-Tech’s offices are based in Bristol, but our client base is throughout the UK and Ireland.

 

What does a typical day entail for you?

If I am out and about, then it’s up between 4 and 5am to avoid the Bristol traffic, and off to see clients, where, after a consultation I will carry out a site survey. Normally I do two or three of these in a day, dependant on where they’re located.

If it’s in the office, then I get a lie in till 6am, in the office for 7am where it is pretty full on managing the business, dealing with clients and working with the team. Usually finish between 6pm - 7pm then home to see the family.

 

What is your favourite piece of work equipment?

My laptop (Macbook Pro), it just works every time!

 

What would you be lost without in work?

My laptop.

 

When did you last laugh in work? What made you laugh?

All the time. The team we have are great. We have a good vibrant atmosphere and get on not just as colleagues but as friends.

 

What is the best part of your day?

Lunch is always welcome, home time is good but my favourite part is coming in in the morning. Every day is a fresh start with its own challenges to overcome.

 

What advice would you give a person thinking of becoming an occupational hygienist?

Go for it! You can make a difference to people’s health and wellbeing - which is very rewarding.

Every day is different, and you get to see a wide variety of processes and places.