A Day in the Life- Danielle McAllister

I’m the Safety and Environmental Systems Coordinator for Belfast Harbour. My working day can vary from being on-site carrying out site inspections and compliance audits to maintaining the Health, Safety, Environmental and Business Continuity Systems through updating information, document control systems and records.

A knowledge of recognised Occupational Health & Safety, Environmental or Quality Management System Standards is very important in my role, as is an in-depth knowledge of current Health, Safety and Environmental Legislation. I also need to ensure I am fully abreast of all current Health, Safety and Environmental issues. Personality wise I think you need to be calm and quick thinking to respond efficiently to the rapidly changing situations and the dynamic nature of operations within the Harbour.

I studied BSc Land use and Environmental Management with Professional Studies at Queen’s University Belfast and I have worked within the Health and Safety and Environmental sector since graduating in 2009. In addition to my degree I hold the National Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety. I also have a Level 4 Diploma in Waste Management Operations: Managing Physical & Chemical Treatment Hazardous Waste.

The best thing about my job is the fact that no two days are ever the same – there are always new challenges at hand and that makes for fast-paced, interesting days. The Harbour has an incredibly high standard of environmental practice, demonstrated by the Platinum Arena Network accreditation we have achieved for the last 5 years, this makes me really proud.

If I were to give one piece of advice to those considering a career in my profession it would be to attend as many events and conferences as possible as, although you can read a lot online, speaking to people first-hand provides you with access to so much more information. It gives you a chance to gain insights, ask direct questions and, most importantly, make contacts.