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RBG Employee's Preventative Action Brings Success at Safety Awards

07 May 2010

John Roper, a scaffolder and safety technician at the leading provider of fabric maintenance and construction support to the global energy industry, RBG, has won the award for Preventative Safety Action at the first Oil & Gas UK Industry Safety Awards.

The accolades were presented by Judith Hackitt, Chair of the Health & Safety Executive at the award's ceremony which took place at the Mercure Ardoe House Hotel, Aberdeen, UK. After being presented with his award Mr Roper, said: "Winning this honour is a great achievement for me, especially as I was nominated by my peers.”

Mr Roper was nominated by Talisman Energy (UK) Limited after his proactive and vigilant behaviour prevented a potential incident on the company's Clyde installation. His actions demonstrated excellent attention to detail and diligence for safety checks, ensuring that lessons were learned and a positive example was set to other employees.

Ron Curley, Clyde/Auk operations manager at Talisman Energy (UK) Limited, said: "I am very pleased that John has been recognised for this award. It can sometimes be very hard to do the right thing by stopping the job, but this is a great example of an individual having the courage of their convictions to take action. John is a credit to RBG, and to the overall Clyde team.”

Having worked for RBG for more than 20 years, Mr Roper was involved in the company's first North Sea hook-up. In his dual role as scaffolder and safety technician, Mr Roper is responsible for erecting stable and safe scaffolds, which are fit for purpose and comply with industry regulations. He also reports to the installation's HSE advisor on safety-related matters.

In addition to Mr Roper's success, Jock Duncan, SORT 4* focal point for RBG on the Shell Gannett was also a finalist at the award's ceremony. Shortlisted for Safety Representative of the Year, Mr Duncan was recognised for his active participation and effectiveness in regards to the promotion of and commitment to the safety agenda within the oil and gas industry.

Dave Workman, RBG chief executive officer, said: "We were extremely pleased that two of our employees were recognised at this year's Oil & Gas UK Safety awards and I am delighted that John has won this award. Both employees' actions are testament to work that goes on each day to engrain safety into our operations. The fact that they were nominated by clients for the excellent work they carry out speaks volumes for their abilities and work ethic.”

Organised by Oil & Gas UK and Step Change in Safety, the awards honour and celebrate exemplary behaviour by individuals and companies in creating a safety culture that is based on the concept of personal responsibility, pro-active behaviour and communication.

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