Posted By Jasonjg Dear Colleagues I want to try to change my career direction to a construction related role. I predict this may take at least 2 years of adjustments, gaining experience and a lot less money when first starting, but feel I would enjoy the challenge much more than manufacturing and am young enough to learn this new area at 32. I have previously worked in construction in areas such as Shuttering Joinery, roofing, demolition and general labouring so not completely behind the door, but never in a safety related role. I have worked in both Industrial and Chemical safety and quality related roles, but would view this as a total shift in Job responsibilities and day to day work activities compared to a construction safety advisor. Having completed Nebosh certificate and Dip 1 and currently undertaking Dip 2, I am wondering what other courses would best suit myself to get a role within this field. I have also gained a P402 asbestos qualification and a teaching qualification. I would appreciate any advice from some of today’s current construction safety advisors on the following subjects, What is involved in construction safety i.e. How do you prepare CDM safety plans, files etc? What different roles are undertaken within construction safety i.e. site visits or office based etc. I am also interested in how a Type 3 asbestos survey are actually done within construction, as I feel the P402 was mainly aimed at type 1 and 2 and was very ambiguous in type 3 or maybe that’s me :). Any advice, tips and hints would be greatly welcome Jason

Posted By Charley Farley-Trelawney Jason With the impending change to the planning supervisors position its a great time to consider your move. Good luck Charles

Posted By steven bentham Jason After many years I changed to work in construction from the public sector. Although I am already qualified, I found the courses run by CITB to be very practical and helpful. (Try their web site, they have courses on safety management, shoring of excavations, scaffolding safety which are all good refreshers). I would not get to hung out on the Planning Supervisor issues, not only do companies have lots on this, there is buckets of informaton. Good luck. [I wish I had made the move years ago!!!]

Posted By Raymond Rapp Jason, as one person has mentioned the CITB is a good starting place. Most organisations require a CISI training certificate and a NEBOSH Construction Certificate is even better. I moved from a railway environment after 22 years of railways into a construction orientated role. The principles of h&s management are essentially the same, although the hazards and culture does vary. I spend most of my time in reams of paperwork, quality plans, project management plans, construction phase plans etc. They are no big deal once you get the knack of them. But is that what you want? Good luck. Ray