New Year honours given to health and safety workers

Two workers in the health and safety field have been recognised for their efforts in the New Year Honours list.

Jason Anker, a campaigner from Nottingham, and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) deputy boss, Kevin Myers, were rewarded.

Jason Anker received an MBE for his services to health and safety in the construction industry. Paralysed for life in an accident on a site over 20 years ago, the 46 year old now works as a motivational speaker.

Mr Anker addresses business and conferences with an emotional and insightful presentation into why health and safety and the right workwear is so important in the construction industry.

He speaks of the impact his accident has taken on his life, and speaks about his recovery and the efforts that demanded. Since 2010, he has worked with the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health on a number of occasions.

Meanwhile, Kevin Myers, the HSE's Deputy Chief Executive, has been awarded the CBE. Recognised for his services to occupational health and safety, Mr Myers joined the HSE in 1976 and has been a key part of the body throughout the past 38 years.

Employed in a number of roles for the HSE, he has worked throughout the country, including in the South West, East Anglia and the capital.

Sitting in key roles within the organisation, he has been a key part in influencing and supporting the HSE's rise to one of the most respected safety regulatory bodies in the world.