Recruitment
“Although not a ‘Safety Professional’, the commitment Van Elle Rail Director, Andy Howard has demonstrated time and time again to ensuring the well-being of his team cannot be denied. His leadership in developing a behavioural safety programme, hand-in-hand with the company’s health & safety team, has not only led to staff welfare being at the forefront of every employees consideration when designing, planning and carrying out the work but to Van Elle Rail NEVER having had a reportable accident.
With two of his colleagues, Andy became an IIF (Injury & Incident Free) coach at the start of the programme attending regular training sessions with the fantastic Volker Fitzpatrick safety and management teams. Much of what has been taught and discussed at these sessions has been rolled out, not only to Van Elle Rail, but to the wider Group benefiting all 450 employees.
Getting to know his staff and their families, their interests, their experiences and their expertise means that every project can benefit from individuals’ strengths ensuring efficiency but also that he can monitor their performance and fatigue more accurately whilst at work. For instance, knowing that a particular employee drives long distances at the weekend for his child to compete in swimming competitions may mean that they are susceptible to fatigue in the week. Andy works closely with every member of staff in scheduling shift patterns and to ensure that no-one is ever put at avoidable risk.
His emphasis on building a team of mutual respect, trust and a sustainable innovative business rather than just focusing on profits has brought everyone together to tackle every project with the same primary goal; Everyone Home Safe Every Day.“
“Andy has been Very Proactive in delivering Volkerfitzpatrick Behavioural safety Program and has provided Coaches from
Van-Elle Ltd to run workshops on our Projects.“
“Andy Howard is the safest man I know.“
“Worked with Volkerfitzpatrick Ltd for 8 years showing dedication to behavioural change and general safety on site.“
“Thank you so much for an amazing evening. The attention to detail that goes into the Rail Staff Awards does not go unnoticed, everything from the décor, food, entertainment and most importantly the awards themselves was first class. It was a privilege for me to present the Samaritans Life Saver Award in recognition of all those who went above and beyond and approached a vulnerable person, truly amazing, incredible work! A huge well done to you and to the Rail Staff Awards for providing the opportunity to publicly recognise such care and dedication. Keep up the good work!”
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