Safety is our priority

Just one month into his new role as a Reactive and Maintenance (R&M) Supervisor, Tom Briggs has embraced his new responsibilities. At 34 years old, taking on the position has come as a welcome change for Tom, who has been a part of KWL for 8 years.

Before joining the company, Tom previously worked as a Water Regulations Inspector, ensuring health standards were met. A typical day now involves planning works and supervising operatives, organising the materials and equipment required and following health and safety procedures. It is fair to say that safety has been a common thread in his career so far.

Tom explains:

“For the past 8 years I was a plumber, repairing issues with waterworks – having been interested in trades since leaving school, this was a logical move from my prior job. Living in Hull, being born and bred here, meant that I sought out an opportunity and an employer that would allow me to work in the city too.”

“My experiences with KWL have always been positive. As an employer they are massively conscious about safety – I’d say it’s their number one priority – which is reassuring for us. There’s also a turnover of promotions and opportunities for progression, so my plan is to continue to move up through the company as others have.”

When people leave KWL, usually for retirement, the vacancies are offered internally before being posted externally. Tom had actually applied for our supervisory vacancies a few times previously before being successful, so when he applied just two months ago, he tells us, “I didn’t expect anything to come of it”.

“At present as a supervisor, I’m part of a larger team that cares for the interests of all of the R&M operatives at KWL. It is our duty to guarantee the safety of the workers and provide them with everything they need to get the job done.

Safety procedures have been more crucial than ever in recent months, with full protective suits and masks provided for workers and safety surveys being undertaken to establish the level of risk. KWL staff are constantly taking on training – only six months ago, Tom completed a 2 day SSSTS (Site Supervisors Safety Training Scheme) course which covered the importance of following procedures and supervising occupational health.

Away from work, Tom likes to spend his spare time with his family whenever possible, especially his 8 year-old son who he usually takes to football practice. When he’s not watching from the side-lines, or at home with his partner, Tom can often be found at the gym.

“The most rewarding aspect of my work is the variation”, Tom says, “Every day presents new challenges and different issues that require solutions. Since stepping up my responsibilities, the team around me have been especially helpful – everybody chips in to support each other. We’re never short of work either which can’t be a bad thing.”