Posted By LiamDC Hi, I am thinking of asking my employer to change the terms of my employment to that of a contractor rather than an employee. I have done some of the figures and it looks like I would be a lot better off - but this depends on what hourly rate I could expect. I would be in control of the tax etc I pay. Any equipment I need would be easier to purchase (VAT reg etc.) Anyway, what would be a good hourly rate in Ireland for being a contractor in this line of work? My work currently consists of 70% H&S with the rest dealing with the companys ISO systems (14001 & 9001:2000). My title is systems supervisor. My H&S work is in the M&E area with a lot of construction site experiance. I would be more in the management side of H&S (i.e. Safety Manager rather than Safety Officer - though I am quite capable of doing this when required). Also is there any good employment agencys in Ireland for Environmental/H&S jobs? I am currently registered as a TechSP with IOSH, Registered QMS 2000 auditor with IRCA, and (fingers crossed) hoping for good news from IEMA in a week or two for reg. as an Env. Auditor. (been busy the last couple of years:-) ). Any comments/advice (or better still job offers) would be welcome. LiamDC

Posted By David Raymond Liam, You will also have to consider full insurance cover for yourself, and also public liability insurance. As a self employed contractor you will be fully responsible for covering yourself against any (dare I say it!) mishaps! Have a look at www.keypeople.co.uk we have some useful tips for contractors, and what is required. Good Luck though Dave