The President's Foreword
Since its establishment in 1946, ATLAS (formerly The National Federation of Master Steeplejacks and Lightning Conductor Engineers) has played a major role in influencing and supporting key issues in the specialist fields of steeplejacking and lightning protection within the wider construction industry.
As always, it remains the ultimate priority and commitment of ATLAS to develop, promote and progress safe practices throughout our industry. I am extremely proud to be able to claim that our proactive nature means that, as both an Association and an industry, we are currently leading the fight against unsafe working practices at height. You only need to look at our industry's accident statistics to be assured that ATLAS member companies continually strive to offer their clients some of the safest working practices and records in the industry.
Graeme Fisher, ATLAS President
However, we can never be complacent. That is why two of the established committees of ATLAS; the Lightning Protection Committee and the Access & Safety Methods Committee, dedicate a large proportion of their annual activity to examining the working practices of their specialist sectors within the industry and continually look at ways to improve them. This is something that all the membership and the wider industry community benefit greatly from. Please take your time to read the relevant committee section to see for yourself the work they are currently employed in.
As well as ensuring that safe working practices are consistently high, technical excellence and quality is another objective of the Association. We regularly receive enquiries from member companies, members' clients and other industry bodies about our specialist industry. We are lucky that our membership represents the most knowledgeable and dedicated individuals and companies in the UK today. Where, occasionally, there is a problem, be that on site or in terms of general business practice, I am confident that ATLAS have one of the strongest Complaints Committees within the construction industry to ensure that problems are rectified and that standards are maintained.
Whether you are already a member, are thinking of becoming one or are looking at employing a member company, I hope that this website offers you the information and confidence to be assured that ATLAS members are at the very pinnacle of the specialist working at height industry. Should you need any further information you can talk to me, my Committee Chairmen or a member of my Secretariat who I am sure will strive to assist you.
I am confident that with the continued commitment of ATLAS and its members, progress will continue at every level. I would urge every member to actively participate in the Association - by becoming involved you will not only demonstrate your commitment to your industry and strengthen ATLAS but you will be able to demonstrate to your clients that you are taking a leading role in the success, progression and future of the steeplejack and lightning protection industry.
Graeme Fisher
ATLAS President
