Inspectors help make workplaces safe. This is important as people are more productive if they feel comfortable in their work environments. The work we do can prevent serious injury or illness, and even potentially save lives.

On a typical day Inspectors visit workplaces for a variety of reasons: to assess the safety of the working environment, to look into complaints and to investigate incidents that have resulted in harm. They look for potential hazards, including dangerous scaffolding or ladders, check how hazardous substances are stored, or whether equipment like a saw blade is properly protected.

One of the great things about being an Inspector is the variety of different industry and workplaces you can work with. There is always something new to get to grips with.

Inspectors say it is important not to over emphasise the enforcement side, because it ends up creating barriers. The ability to put yourself in other people's shoes to see the issues from different angles is key and building rapport with people is a major part of the role. We encourage improvements in the workplace by consulting and offering advice and suggestions.

The work Inspectors do, can make the difference between life and death therefore enforcement action is sometimes appropriate. Upholding standards of workplace health and safety is fundamental to our role. It can sometimes be a tough job and there may be challenging situations to deal with. Inspectors also handle fatalities and have to liaise with co-workers and families at a difficult time.

Initial training lasts at least twelve months and includes study and being out with other Inspectors, observing and learning. After becoming warranted, Inspectors are in a position to manage their own workload. The Inspectors arrange their own schedules for the day and therefore enjoy flexibility in meeting the demands of the job. Time management skills are important. You will need to manage your workload to meet your targets.

The work is mainly out in the field, with some time in the office. Inspectors use mobile technology solutions so we can collate and produce reports while we're completing our research. This allows them to maximise their time in the field.

Ultimately inspectors do an important job - important to workers and employers alike. They help make workplaces safer and help create positive places to work. This help employers with improving the productivity of their organisations.

Inspectors have considerable statutory powers and with that power comes real responsibility to exercise discretion to make workplaces better.