Des Ruru

Des is an experienced health and safety professional with valuable knowledge relating to several different subjects and industries.

Serving in the Royal New Zealand Navy for 21 years, Des held positions such as Chief Petty Officer - Physical Training Instructor, Damage Control Firefighting Instructor, and Ship Diver, based around New Zealand and overseas. Des then worked as a Senior Station Officer at Christchurch International Airport and a trainer for FENZ, followed by 12 years as a trainer and regional manager at a safety organisation.

Des has trained in over 40 different subjects, including general occupational health and safety training and specialised training in breathing apparatus, cranes, elevated work platforms, and other high-risk activities.

Des joined Site Safe New Zealand in May 2023 as a Safety Advisor for Dunedin. His knowledge, experience, and passion for health and safety is evident in the excellent service he provides to his clients.

“He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata!”
“What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people, it is people!”

Specific expertise:

• Leadership and mentoring
• Adult education and training
• Fire safety
• Emergency management
• High-risk activities
• First aid
• General and specialised health and safety knowledge

Qualifications:

• National Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety (Workplace Safety) (Level 3)
• New Zealand Certificate in Cranes (Level 3) Pendant-Controlled Overhead Crane
• National Certificate in Fire and Rescue Services – Airport (Level 4)
• Diploma – Physical Education & Recreational & Sport
• Diploma – United Fire Brigade Association
• New Zealand Institute of Management Certificate