Posted By Paul Craythorne Bob, I assume you are, like me, very committed and very passionate about the health & safety cause. However, trying to find a company that is equally committed is a bit like going in search of the Holy Grail. I have been employed in H&S for over 12 years now and have worked for Local Authority and 3 national/multi national companies. Unfortunately none of these have a clue about total safety management and the resource requirement that is fundamental to its success. I currently work for one of the largest automotive suppliers in the world with about 150,000 employees in over 30 countries. I was appointed in November 2000 to look after 2 large sites. I report to 2 HR Managers, have no budget, no office, no clerical support, a job description that states I have no authority and therefore no chance of achieving my goal of accreditation to OHSAS18001. It has taken a long time, but I have come to the conclusion that H&S professionals will never be valued and ranked alongside HR & Quality as a significant business function. You only have to look at some of the vacancies in the SHP to appreciate this with companies asking for NEBOSH Diplomas, MIOSH, RSP and 5+ years experience for salaries of less than £25k. I have 2 teenage children and would not advise them to take up a career in H&S. If it hasn't made the grade by the year 2001 it never will. Good luck, and I hope you find the Holy Grail. Regards, Paul