We are thrilled to announce that MKM's Head of Health & Safety, Simon Raywood, has been appointed Chair of the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) Health, Safety & Wellbeing Working Group.

Simon has been an active and valued member of the group since 2018. Over the past seven years, he has played a significant role in developing guidance and best practices aimed at protecting the safety and wellbeing of employees across all BMF member companies.

Extensive Health and Safety Experience

Simon brings a wealth of experience to this prestigious role. He began his career as a forklift truck driver and instructor before transitioning into the health and safety sector in 1998. His impressive career includes roles at major companies like Howdens Joinery, Arco, and Smith & Nephew. He also ran his own successful consultancy for five years before joining the MKM family.

Holding a BSc Degree in Safety & Environmental Management, Simon has a deep-rooted passion for ensuring every employee returns home safe at the end of the working day.

Simon shared his thoughts on the new appointment:

“It’s an honour to be asked to Chair the Health, Safety & Well Being Working Group who are trying to make our industry safer. I’ve been a member of the group for the past 7 years and it has been a huge benefit to me personally to be able to share knowledge and experience with like-minded H&S professionals. Builders' merchants can be a challenging environment and none of us have all the answers, so to be able to discuss any issues with other merchants who are facing the same problems is a real bonus! Although we’re all competitors within the industry, at the end of the day, we all want the same thing - to ensure that our employees and customers GO HOME SAFE.”

 

 

The BMF Highlights the Group's Importance

The BMF Health, Safety & Wellbeing Working Group is a vital resource for the industry. It provides essential guidance and advice to support member companies in maintaining the highest standards of workplace safety. The group covers crucial areas such as materials handling, workplace transport, and the use of specialist equipment.

BMF CEO, John Newcomb, commented on the appointment:

“This is an important working group for the BMF, whose output to date includes Safety Guides on Materials Storage & Handling, Workplace Transport, and Load Security, as well as specialist guides relating to Liquid Gas, Sawmills, and Woodworking Machinery. Simon has already made an outstanding contribution as a member of the group for the past seven years and has the knowledge, experience, and understanding that will make him an excellent Chair. I would also like to thank the outgoing Chair, Richard Bryne, who is stepping down from the role as he leaves the industry, for helping us set new standards supporting members in this vital area.”

A Safer Future for the Industry

Simon's appointment as Chair reinforces the BMF's commitment to promoting health, safety, and wellbeing across the entire building materials sector. With his leadership, the working group is poised to continue its fantastic work in making our industry a safer place for everyone. We are incredibly proud of Simon and look forward to seeing the positive impact he will make in his new role.

 

Learn more about MKM’s commitment to health and safety.