NAPIT Non-Executive Director Chris Bielby, who is also Chair of Trustees at The Gas Safety Trust, has been made an MBE in the Queen’s birthday honors this year in recognition of his services to the promotion of gas safety and carbon monoxide awareness.
This year’s honors list, published on 16 June 2012, features a characteristically star-studded list of honorees including: Kenneth Brannagh, Kate Winslet and Garry Barlow.
Chris was selected from thousands of nominees across the UK and will receive his medal alongside 532 other MBE recipients this year. All MBE’s are awarded for inspirational and outstanding contributions to society, usually through dedication to charity work.
In response to the news of Bielby’s achievement, NAPIT Chief executive, John Andrews said: “I have known Chris for a number of years and his determination to ensure only Competent Tradesmen undertake Gas work in the home closely matches my stance for the Electrical sector. It is good to see that all his efforts to raise standards over the years are at last being rewarded in this way.”
Anyone can be nominated for an honour but only exceptional people receive one. Chris, who has worked tirelessly for over 25 years, canvassing and lobbying support, will receive this honour in recognition of his outstanding achievement and service to society in raising awareness of gas safety and the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.
According to statistics from the HSE (Health and Safety Executive), every year there are around 15 deaths and many more (non-fatal) casualties suffered as a result of CO poisoning caused by gas appliances and flues that have not been properly installed, maintained or ventilated, highlighting the vital importance of Chris’ work.
NAPIT have always been committed to promoting safety and have been a strong supporter of the charity CO-Awareness, founded by Lynn Griffiths, for over six years. CO-Awareness believe exposure to carbon monoxide to be; “grossly under reported, possibly affecting millions of people in this country each year.” If just one life is saved, the determined campaigning of people like Chris and Lynn will be worthwhile. You can find more information on the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning on Lynn’s website, CO-Awareness.
NAPIT are delighted to see Chris’ achievements recognised in this year’s honours list and continue to take great pride in his tireless efforts to promote awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide.