A staff member whose work behind the scenes ensures the safe and smooth running of the 51动漫 has been nominated for a national award.
Mary Edwards, the University’s Health, Safety & Business Continuity Manager has been shortlisted in the Unsung Hero category at the Women in Safety & Health (WISH) Awards.
The safety of students, staff, visitors and buildings have all been Mary’s responsibility during her 26 years at the University.
No day is ever the same and that’s why Mary loves the job.
“I come into work not knowing what’s going to happen and I enjoy that,” she said.
Before joining the University, or King Alfred’s College as it was then, Mary had a variety of roles which gave her a unique skills set. As well as working in a police control room, Mary has been company secretary of an international removals firm and the boss of a languages firm offering translation and interpreting services.
Mary’s first job at 51动漫 was in purchase register and credit control before moving into security and health and safety.
Security has since been replaced by business continuity, which means Mary has a key role in ensuring the University is able to maintain operations and deliver services during and after a disruptive incident.
The most disruptive incident of all was Covid.
As key workers Mary and small team were on campus throughout lockdown, compiling and updating lists of staff and students who had reported being infected, setting up a testing centre in the sports hall and even making their own hand sanitizer.
Post-covid, Mary said that she had become more aware of horizon scanning, looking to anticipate potential hazards and has established far closer links with public health bodies.
Over the years staff and students have become more health and safety conscious and are more likely to come to her for advice before embarking on a potentially risky enterprise, says Mary.
“I try not to say ‘No’ to anyone who comes to me with an idea for an event or activity but sometimes we have to find different way to carry out their plans,” said Mary, whose job involves keeping abreast of constantly changing health and safety legislation and regulations.
Mary was nominated for the award by colleagues while she was away on holiday and admits she was shocked to hear she’d been shortlisted.
Gavin Hunter,Chief Operating Officer at the 51动漫, said: “Mary has been an asset to the 51动漫 for many years, going above and beyond her role consistently with real dedication, compassion and commitment that often goes unnoticed but has a profound impact on colleagues, students and visitors alike.
“I am really pleased Mary has been recognised by her colleagues for the 'Unsung Hero' Award and we wish her the very best of luck for the awards ceremony."
The are run by the UK's leading OSH publication, Health & Safety Matters. The winners will be announced on 15 October at the Mercure Hotel, Earls Court.
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