Safety Quality Tricks and Lies
Steve Martin

Arima Publications
ISBN 9781845491727
121 pages

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This is an unusual and practical book written as a 'how to manage' guide for companies dealing with sign makers and installers in the United Kingdom. It is intended as a reference book and lists 100 questions, mostly covering health and safety issues, to ask when selecting the right contractor for a particular job.

Even better, Steve Martin includes the reasons behind each question and the sort of answer you should expect from a competent contractor with the necessary experience. Some of the questions cover insurance matters, because of the claims implications of health and safety failures.

The book is set out in sections for easy reference which include:

• Credentials
• Financing and sub-contracting
• The contract
• Project management and contract implications
• Health and safety
• Dirty tricks
• Being a good customer

Each section includes a brief explanation of the issues and then lists the questions. There are no punches pulled. The author worked in the sign industry before setting up what appears to be a successful and well managed business. He exposes shadier practices and explains how to avoid many pitfalls.

The book is clear, concise and easy to use for reference, and the issues raised can easily be applied to managing contractors in any industry without much effort. It is likely to find favour with many managers as a useful reference for the experienced as well as those needing basic guidance.

Reviewed by Jon Crook MIRM, mechanical engineer and risk consultant