Les Hill

Having obtained a BSc in Chemistry, Les started working life with Tarmac, in their construction division central laboratory, and spent 4 years working on concrete, admixtures, surface treatments and analysis. This included site visits looking at problems, and supervising the application of special products.
After a short period in development of PF and UF resins for foundry sand binders, during which he decided manufacturing was not his interest, Les joined Cuprinol, working in their laboratories providing technical support for their pretreatment and professional customers, utilising his  analytical knowledge in testing of plasters, and becoming familiar with wood preservatives. Again, site inspections of problems were a feature.
His next move was to a national preservation company, where he put his technical background to good use while dealing with guarantee claims and ongoing problems in various parts of the UK. During this period, he was trained to carry out surveys and did so as an integral part of his duties.  Also during this time he had his first contact with Trade Associations, as a number of issues he dealt with had been brought to the attention of what were at the time BCDA and BWPA.
Shortly afterwards, he joined BCDA as Technical Officer, and spent over 20 years in Trade Association  work, doing routine and new member inspections ( he set up the routine inspection system), attending internal and external committees and dealing with disputes between members and clients. This also included regular CPD lectures to specifiers and major client groups such as Building Surveyors, EHOs, Valuers, Building Societies, Housing Associations etc. During this period, with the progression from BCDA through BWPDA and TAS to PCA, he gained CSRT and CSSW qualifications, as well as Part 1 & 2 in Pest Control, together with the NEBOSH General Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health, and the Level 3 qualification in Food Safety Supervision.
On leaving TAS following the split up of the joint venture, he has set up a consultancy, using his knowledge of the damp and waterproofing, timber preservation, pest control, technical auditing and health & safety fields.