Team member in the spotlight: HSE coordinator Teun
Every 2 months, we turn the spotlight on a member of our team. Today our Health, Safety and environment coordinator tells us about how he ended up at Kouwenberg Infra, what his work entails, and why he still enjoys working at Kouwenberg Infra after 7 years!
What type of education did you receive?
I studied Integrated Safety and Security Management at Avans University of Applied Sciences. There I also obtained my MVK (Safety Studies) degree. I did a minor in the field of occupational safety and in 2014, the final year of the programme, I started an internship at Kouwenberg Infra to create more safety awareness. At the end of my internship, I received a call from Stefan asking if I wanted to join the company after my internship. I started as an EHS employee and work planner, but I have since been promoted to HSE coordinator/safety expert.
What does your job entail exactly?
My tasks include drawing up and implementing the safety policy. Of course, it is also important to increase people’s safety awareness, and people can come to me with all their questions about safety and certifications. We discuss the drilling plans, risk inventories and safety plans that have been drawn up, and these are then sent to me for approval. Where necessary, I assist in the work preparations, for example by making drawings. I am also responsible for the execution of internal and external audits and I assist in process improvement.
What do you like about your work?
We have a really nice, sociable team. I like that I can contribute to all aspects of a project and I appreciate the contact with our clients. It also feels good to contribute to safety at the workplace and it’s great to see that there is a growing awareness of safety among my colleagues.
What does a working day look like for you?
I work a lot on standard tasks, but I also alternate a lot between working at the office and visiting projects.
How do you keep up to date with developments in your field?
Through the trade association, I keep abreast of developments in the field of trenchless techniques. I also am a member of the NVVK, the Netherlands Society of Safety Experts, which keeps me informed of safety-related developments. I also check LinkedIn regularly and read various newsletters and specialist journals.
When did you start working for Kouwenberg Infra?
I started my internship at Kouwenberg Infra in 2014 and have worked here ever since.
Do you get along well with your colleagues?
We have a great team spirit. We have a friendly group and we are all on the same page: we want to deliver quality, safe work. Before Covid-19, we regularly had cosy Friday afternoon get-togethers, BBQs and staff outings.
What makes Kouwenberg Infra unique?
The close-knit team, the commitment to each other, the teamwork, the growth of the company in recent years and the specialist work are all reasons why I enjoy working for this company.
Is there something else you’d like to share with us?
It is nice to see that there is growth in the field of safety, also when new people come on board. I have shoe size 43
