Hi Jonathan, the answer depends on what you want to achieve. For general education I think that the magazines/periodicals produced by IOSH and other similar organisations have a broad range of subjects at a variety of levels of detail. You can even find some free ones if you search for free safety magazines.

However, if you are wanting to go down the examination route then the examining boards produce lists of reading material which may be useful.

If you want a book on a specific subject matter (eg ergonomics, machine safety, biological agents, noise, behavioural safety) the main online bookseller (S American River) has a vast range of specific titles and the online reviews are as good a way as any of gaining sonme insight in to whether it's a worthwhile buy.

Sadly, I once took Occupational Hygiene by Harrington & Gardiner on holiday and read it around the pool. Tom Clancy kept my attention rather better though, but I did pass the exam!

At university I discovered Tolley's Health and Safety at Work Handbook and John Ridley & John Channing's Safety at Work. I have used them ever since and they provide me with most of what I need. I reduce the cost by buying Ridley every 3-4 years (since by and large technology and systems don't change that quickly) and Tolley's every 2 years. That way it only works out at less than £50 per year. However, I agree that IOSH books and the periodicals are also very good. As a side note, if you think health and safety books are expensive have you seen the price of law books.

Regards.

DJ