06 April 2006

‘Distilling Value from Legal Mash'

USHA Annual Conference 10-12th April 2006, APEX HOTEL, DUNDEE

The Universities Safety and Health Associations Annual Conference to promote best practice in health and safety management within Universities takes place in Dundee next week welcoming over 100 delegates from UK and Irish universities. Besides the University’s welcome, the Lord Provost is giving a Civic Reception for delegates sponsored by the Dundee and Angus Convention Bureau prior to the Gala Dinner on the Tuesday.

This year’s theme, ‘Distilling Value from Legal Mash’ draws upon the expertise of seven invited speakers to develop the skills of digesting the burden of legislation into a user-friendly, proportionate and relevant form while identifying ancillary benefits for the establishment of effective compliance.

Keynote speaker is Jim Foulds, who chairs the Higher Education Forum for Health and Safety and Pro-Chancellor of Bristol University. His presentation defines the differences between competence and excellence among H&S professionals and he uses the creation of a fine malt whisky as an analogy.

He says, "When you drink a truly outstanding whisky you can tell the difference. There is something special about it that makes it unique. It is hard to describe but you certainly know it when you savour it.

"In the same way, the truly outstanding H&S professional pushes the boundaries beyond the mere mechanics; brings something different to the task."

The Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, Professor Brian Burchell, opens the second day by challenging the delegates with the needs of senior managers that they need to support.

Other speakers include the Scottish Director, Health and Safety Executive, Stewart Campbell, dispelling the myths that health and safety is responsible for the many of the ridiculous stories in the media about disproportionate safety controls on leisure pursuits, such as children playing conkers. Speakers from business and consultancies will coach skills in presenting a business case, negotiation and communication techniques, as well as recognising the importance of branding and styling communications in line with each institution’s projected image.

Dr Ian Scragg, Head of Occupational Health and Safety Services, University of Dundee, has helped organised the annual event. He says, "We are proud to be hosting this event in Dundee. It is always a great opportunity to bring Health and Safety professionals together and explore fresh ideas. I’m sure it will be a great three days and look I forward to welcoming everyone."

For media enquiries contact:

Anna Day
Press Officer
University of Dundee
Nethergate Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 07967 475573
E-MAIL: a.c.day@dundee.ac.uk