Posted By Ian D. Hi, Yet again I have had a marketing company foil the reception rearguard by announcing themselves as the "HSE". I personally have found this to be an increasing trend. The one this week caught me at a bad time (16.50 with a desk full of work to complete) so I asked them to prove that they were in fact representing the HSE, the operator could not answer my question so I was passed to the supervisor who again verbally assured me that they work on behalf of the HSE, but could give me factual verification, he give me his line managers number, but again this was in house and no link to the HSE After my rant, my question is how can we verify that the HSE has commissioned such services or as I believe could be an exercise in building up client lists. Anyone else or just me? Regards Ian

Posted By Ian D. Sorry should have stated that this was a telephone survey

Posted By Tabs If you are too busy to participate in a phone survey, simply say so and hang up. Even if it is Bill C himself, no-one is under an obligation to participate in such surveys. If it is the HSE they will be calling with reference to a specific matter and will make reference to that at the begining of the call.

Posted By Christopher I would suggest that you ask for their request in writing with a named contact and telephone number of a HSE/other agency person who can verify the credibility of the request.

Posted By db Sometimes bona fide companies do work on behalf of HSE but these are usually the likes of MORI or universities doing surveys and they'll say so - and they will not say they are HSE. HSE do not cold call people. If in doubt ask which office they are from and check on HSE website for the number. Or just put the phone down - its quicker!