Meet Peter Zijderveld

In We Are Circet we introduce both the new recruits and seasoned professionals in our team.

Meet Peter Zijderveld 

Function: QHSE Manager Circet Netherlands

Employed since: October 2023

Site/department: QHSE department

How do you help build the infrastructure of tomorrow? 

“QHSE stands for Quality, Health, Safety and Environment. I focus on these four elements for all our sites and projects in the Netherlands.”

▶️ QHSE: examples to illustrate each element

• Quality: we examine whether we are doing our work properly, handle complaints, etc.
• Health: we keep track of what’s happening outside and try to keep all our colleagues healthy.
• Safety: we check that risk assessments are carried out everywhere, take measures to prevent industrial accidents, etc.
• Environment: we find ways to prevent environmental damage, to encourage soft mobility, etc.

What is your main task?

“Most entities in the Netherlands think and act autonomously. However, we want everyone to think in terms of our national services. So, instead of ‘We at entity XX’, the mindset should switch to ‘We as part of EV’, or ‘We at FttH’.  

My job is to bring the various QHSE departments together. This is important because it ensures everyone works according to the same safety regulations and procedures and that data is collected in the same way.

Here’s an example: for quality management, we’ve acquired a single system. But not every entity has implemented it yet. As a result, matters such as project information or complaints are not registered in the same way. With centralised and harmonised registration, all the data will be collected in the same way, in one single location. The data will then be comprehensible for everyone, and we will be able to learn valuable lessons from it.”

Why is the QHSE department so important at Circet?

“Reducing damage, accidents, complaints or comments means we can increase our work efficiency. This is why QHSE plays such an important role in our organisation. By joining forces (centralisation and harmonisation), it is possible to understand all (national) risks and, together, we can prevent them more efficiently.”

Which challenges do you face?

“In creating unity in-between all entities. You have to communicate very well, highlight compelling examples, implement changes without putting anyone’s work in jeopardy... It’s important to include everyone in the story, to explain where we’re going and why change is needed. That’s quite a challenge.”

What do you like most about your job?

“Working with a great group of people. And because I deal with so many different departments, I also work with many different colleagues: technicians, operations managers, QHSE coordinators, project leaders... So, I get to know a lot of new people. It’s really great.”

Which tip would you give a Circet newcomer?

“When I first started, it took me a while to figure out who was who. As a newcomer, it is therefore important not to lock yourself behind your own screen. Hang out at the coffee machine, in the canteen or in another common area. You’ll get acquainted with your colleagues faster and know who you can contact if you need help.”