Student electricians named health and safety comp champs

A trio of student electricians proved to be the brightest sparks during Walsall College’s inaugural health and safety competition sponsored by S Guest Consultancy Services.

12 Level 1 students across the brickwork, carpentry and joinery, electrical, painting and decorating and multi-skills construction curriculum were put through their paces on subjects including first aid, fire safety, manual handling and welfare.  The quiz rounds consisted of true or false Q & As, safety sign awareness, hazard-spotting, the spelling out of abbreviations and general health and safety knowledge.

“This is the first time we’ve hosted a competition like this and it worked very well,” said Lecturer and Advanced Practitioner, Mozz Baker who organised the event.  “It’s helped the students put health and safety practices at the forefront of their future working lives; whether they’re on site or in a site support role.

“Not only is it reiterating key terminology and legislation, it is also showing them how these are embedded in company policies followed by the entire industry.  This is with a view to them enjoying active and safe working careers.  Congratulations to all the competition participants.”

The students initially took part in competition heats against classmates from their construction course area.  The winning team of electrical students were awarded a £40.00 cash prize with runners-up, the multi-skills construction students receiving £20.00.  All contestants received a goodie bag which included some trade-specific tools.

Steve Guest, Director at S Guest Consultancy Services added: “We were delighted to support this inaugural event with the college.  It reinforces to these students and their classmates the importance of participating in extra-curricular activities as an aid for self-development, improving self-worth and increasing their value.”

He added: “A quote by the entrepreneur, Jim Rohn, ‘Don’t wish it easier, wish you were better’ perfectly encapsulates this.  Having gained so much during this health and safety competition, I hope the students all feel better able to widen their aspirations and pledge to make their professional development a lifelong activity.”