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“ It ’ s a key market for us because we don ’ t have to convince companies in the energy sector of LEEA ’ s importance . They often naturally share our values , particularly when it comes to sustainability , health and safety , and overall best practice , which means they appreciate the value LEEA brings to the industry .”
As a specialist area that plays a fundamental role in several businesses , LEEA is a popular organization with a growing membership of over 1200 professionals . “ Many of our members work in high risk , dangerous environments , and our job is to mitigate that risk ,” Ross explains . “ In other words , our goal is to eliminate accidents relating to lifting equipment .
“ We must consider two elements : maintaining standards so that equipment doesn ’ t fail , but also ensuring the correct use of equipment . The first aspect is much easier , as we work with manufacturers to make sure they ’ re up to standard , or even exceed them . Our examiners are the best in the industry , and , as most of them come from a manufacturing background , they boast the competence and expertise to see the process from both sides .
“ However , most accidents relating to lifting equipment in recent times are less likely to be caused by failing equipment , but typically due to the misuse of equipment ,” he reveals . “ This part is much harder to tackle , and you ’ d be surprised how many people don ’ t even realize they ’ re working with lifting equipment day in , day out .”
LEEA typically generates business through three main avenues : membership services , training and education , and supporting governmental bodies to create policy . “ Our goal is to be an exclusive , esteemed association ,” Ross proposes . “ We ’ re not trying to be an expensive organization , but instead an impactful one . We do technical based audits for potential members and support those who don ’ t initially pass the audit to become part of the association if it ’ s mutually beneficial .
“ Alongside membership , we provide extensive market-leading training for those who use lifting equipment . We ’ ve invested significantly in our training materials to encourage better engagement , whether they ’ re delivered online or face-to-face at the customer ’ s site or at our Centre of Excellence in Huntingdon , England .
“ Lastly , we carry out traditional activities too . To be clear , we don ’ t lobby government , but instead support government and its agencies to improve policy . We like to think we ’ re a well-respected voice in the arena . In recent months , for example , we helped
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