Inspiration

Taking Care in Construction

Anne Nare works in construction safety with Murray & Roberts. Her job demands a high level of responsibility and attention to detail. Her meticulous and caring nature is particularly suited to her career choice (which is probably what makes her so good at it). Anne says that she enjoys helping others and working in construction safety has afforded her the opportunity to do that.

Anne was first attracted to the field of Occupational Health and Safety, She as a student at the Tshwane University of Technology where she gained exposure to a wide variety of construction related disciplines from bricklaying to quantity surveying. Anne explains that during her studies she was exposed to equipment which if not used correctly could cause injury. “There and then I knew that I wanted to stick with construction and specialise in construction safety” she says.

Anne has a Diploma in Technical Education (Civil) and a National Construction Certificate with NEBOSH, the UK based examination board for Occupational Health and Safety. Anne was previously employed as a SHE training manager at the National Occupational Safety Association (NOSA). Before joining NOSA, Anne worked in the construction field for companies such as Africa Construction and Concor. She worked specifically on civil projects which meant looking after safety on a daily basis and assisting construction companies to implement safety and construction regulations.

Anne keeps an open mind and knows that she needs to keep educating herself with regards to legislation and international best practice. Some of Anne’s greatest accomplishments include maintaining a good a safety record on site and getting licensed to facilitate the National Construction Certificate for NEBOSH in South Africa. She has a passion for mentoring and enjoys sharing her skills and knowledge.

A lack of technical skills and working in male dominated environment are some of the greatest obstacles she has had to overcome. Anne is inspired by the fact that she has found her calling in life and admires people who conquer against all odds. She attributes her own success to resilience and determination. She says that growing up in a big family taught her the importance of sharing. It also enabled her to work well with other people and contributes to her positive attitude in the face of challenges.

Anne’s advice to women like herself is to “ensure that you’re doing what you enjoy, find a mentor to guide you and get over disappointments as soon as possible”.