sorry that reads as if I think its ridiculous that the H&S Manager is earning more - my point is of course that its madness to be reporting to someone on less of a salary - asking for trouble I think .....

Although it's not necessarily common place (you may find it's more common than you think), it's neither unique nor unusual and I don't see why it should be considered ridiculous. In addition, for those of us in or ex military, many will know that many non commissioned ranks (generally NCO/SNCO) are paid more (often considerably more) than junior commissioned officers.

I report to the HR Manager and am required to pass changed processes and procedures to him for approval. It is a complete waste of time because he readily admits that he knows very little about H&S and even less about Environmental Management.. It is frustrating but I live with it because I not only trust my manager but respect him as well Like canopener, I did work with junior officers who earned more than me, knew naff all but were considered experts - that is frustrating