What they’re saying
Neil Jamieson
Retired HM Principal Inspector of Health and Safety
“From our first meeting
I became quickly impressed by Claire’s knowledge, professionalism and
can do attitude”
“I was employed by the Health and Safety Executive until I retired in 2018 as a Principal Inspector who was responsible for the regulation of health and safety at places of work across the Northwest of England. For the most part I was primarily involved with the regulation of the construction industry which involved working closely with safety professionals and consultants and other industry professionals. I frequently attended safety forums to set and discuss standards and to advise on the law .
One such forum I regularly attended was the North West Construction Safety Group. I first met Claire Oakes during an Executive meeting of the group in 2005. Claire had at that time just become an Executive Member.
From our first meeting I became quickly impressed by Claire’s knowledge, professionalism and can do attitude. Qualities which the group quickly recognised as Claire went onto hold a number of key executive posts including becoming the groups Chairperson and Vice chair. During her time as Chairperson the membership numbers and the groups reputation significantly improved, which in my opinion was largely down to Claire’s hard work and leadership qualities. Claire has tirelessly been involved with organising a large number of SHADs (Safety Health and Awareness Days). Again, Claire’s professional input and enthusiasm has always helped with ensuring the events were a huge success.
Claire was also asked to assist with a review of construction welfare standards. Claire quickly accepted and was offered the responsibility for chairing and managing a group of industry professionals, who all had opposing if not fixed views of what the standards should be. Claire who is also an excellent communicator diligently lead and professionally managed the group and although the standards are still to be published the work of the group was invaluable.”
Neil Jamieson
Retired HM Principal Inspector of Health and Safety
Madeleine Abas
Senior Partner
“one of the most dedicated, passionate health and safety professionals I have
ever known.”
“I have known Claire for almost 20 years. She is one of the most dedicated, passionate health and safety professionals I have ever known. Her knowledge is second to none, and she devotes considerable energy to inspiring others and equipping them with the knowledge and help they need to get health and safety right. I have no hesitation in recommending her.”
Madeleine Abas
Senior Partner
Mount Group Construction Ltd
“Having worked in the construction industry previously
with Claire Oakes, OAKESafe was my obvious go to when seeking guidance on our existing Policy and Procedures. She undertook the review in a swift, timely and
professional manner.”
Richard Bartley
Development Consultant
A Bee Electrical Ltd
“I was recommended to contact Claire Oakes for advice on two Construction Phase Plans which were required urgently. Her response was professional, thorough and very fast and ensured that we did not have a problem with the main contractor. She has also been of enormous help with our recent CHAS Assessment and advice on Covid19 procedures. I would highly recommend Claire to anyone seeking advice on any areas of Health and Safety in their business.”
Betty Fergus
Director/Company Secretary
Cara Group & Chair of the NWCSG
“I have known and worked with Claire for many years, and would recommend her to any company as highly competent construction heath and safety professional. Claire is approachable, practical and thoroughly in the
way she appeals herself. Claire is progressive, adoptive, with a positive outlook and a pleasure to work with.”
Paul Grimes
Group SHE Manager
Create Construction Ltd
“Claire is very proactive to encourage and nurture improvement rather than police. It's a very rare case for someone to be so enthusiastic and passionate about there field, and also have the actual skills and knowledge to match. In almost 40 years in the construction industry, Claire is by far the best health and safety professional I have come across.”
Lee Collyer
Pre-Construction Director
Truman D&B Ltd
“Following the recommendations and introductory meetings we have appointed Claire as our HSQE consultant. She has extensive knowledge of the health and safety legislation and has successfully worked with similar sized North West based construction companies in the past. We are pleased with her straightforward approach and assistance she has given us to date.”
Alan Moss
Operations Manager, Truman
Orbit Building Solutions Ltd
“Having worked with Claire for many years I didn't hesitate to engage OAKESafe as our H&S representative for our inspections and reporting. On Claires first visit she gave us welcomed advice and guidance on where our process and procedures could be improved. I would not hesitate to recommend OAKESafe to anyone else.”
Alan Wilcox
Operations Director
Eaves (North) Ltd
“I was delighted to hear Claire had set up OAKESafe, having worked with her previously, just at the time my business needed guidance and monitoring to make sure we are doing things correctly. I know I am in safe hands with Claire.”
James McKnight
Director