Skip to primary navigation | Skip to secondary navigation | Skip to content | Skip to footer |
Problems viewing this site

Julie Begg

Name:
Julie Begg
Age:
45
Location:
Brisbane
Current job title:
Health, Safety, Environment and Quality Management System Implementation Specialist

Qualifications

Past experience

Over 20 years working in heavy industry in Health, Safety and Environment - including Electricity Industry; Railways; Steel and Glass manufacturing, Petrochemical and now, Mining.

How did you get started?

As a student nurse I learned about Occupational Health and Safety and pursued post nursing qualifications and was able to get a position in OHS in a power station on shift. I loved the idea that I could try and prevent injuries and illness as, after three years of nursing, I realised that curing is not always possible but prevention should be.

Greatest professional achievement

Returning to HSE work after having my two children and still being able to maintain a knowledge level through study when not directly employed in HSE. I have often thought about pursuing a different career but have never found anything that interests or excites me as much. I have presented papers on HSE and recently nominated to join the management committee of the Safety Institute of Australia - QLD Division.

Challenges the job presents

Heavy industry is production driven and HSE is, most times, thought of as "slowing down production" or "eating away at profits". As legislation has made HSE more important and critical to businesses, the need for HSE personnel is recognised but can be a "token gesture" unless the personnel are dedicated and willing to try different approaches and work with the business. It takes a strong personality and personal belief that you are doing the right thing for employees and the environment.

A renowned OHS expert once said "Businesses don't need managers for OHS, they need mothers ..because a mother would never allow her child to be hurt and will do whatever is possible to protect from harm".

What you like most about your job

I was fortunate enough to find an occupation that I am passionate about and everyday brings a new idea or something different to try. Thinking "outside the square" helps to keep the message of HSE interesting. I get the chance to talk to all types of people in the work environment, from managers to labourers, about their health and safety and a lot of times, about their families.

Health, Safety and Environment as a career is transferable amongst different industries so there is scope to try different types of work environments and it also assists with finding work if having to relocate for family reasons.

Typical day at work

If in the office, then computer and meeting based activities. If on site, inspections, audits, presentations and discussions with workers about their work and any issues.

Advice for other women

Women have different organisational skills than men and can complement a team when all are aware of each others' skills and strengths. Always remember that you are female and do not try to be a "male" in a male dominated environment. My experience is that men appreciate having a female in the work environment that they can talk to and who takes an interest in their health, safety and family.

Other profiles

Mining

Construction

Science

Engineering

Technology

Last updated: 8 April 2008