Karyn Byrom GradNZISM

Background

My working life started at Wellington Hospital initially as a darkroom technician in the Photography Department and latterly as a Medical Photographer in the Wellington Clinical School of Medicine.  The first ever photo I printed was of a pair of feet following a lawn mower accident, never at that time would I envisage how much safety would become part of my future career.

Moving to Nelson I took a change in career path working in both the electrical and mussel processing industry, the latter which brought me to work at Sealord - one of the largest fish quota holders in New Zealand.  During 16 years at Sealord my interest in health and safety and the right for everyone to be safe developed.  Initially becoming a Health and Safety Representative, through years of training I progressively became a Health and Safety Advisor for the Sealord fishing fleet and attained the Diploma of Occupational Health and Safety (Level 6) in 2013.

Over time I have completed many health and safety orientated health and safety courses and attended seminars and conferences.  I am a current Nelson branch Graduate member of the New Zealand Institute of Safety Management (NZISM).  I also held roles as facilitator for the Nelson Tasman Health and Safety Network, a committee member for MINDZ (the workplace Mental Health Forum), and other national groups like the New Zealand Fishing Safety Forum where industry leaders meet to discuss maritime safety.

The business slogan of the company I work for is Complex Problems, Simple Solutions, which makes total sense – to use a system it must provide compliance while being workable.  This outcome can only be achieved through client / contractor mutual respect and collaboration. During the years with this company I have had the opportunity to work with people from all levels of businesses to develop maritime and land systems in a quest to help improve understanding from the shop floor up.

Having been active in the health and safety sector for many years I understand that health and safety needs practicality to achieve safe outcomes for all workers, their friends and families.