NORAC Awards

Most Unusual Find Award

Most Unusual Find Award 2025 Winner: Michael McCourt - ACE

This award aims to recognise those outstanding and unique discoveries made by our industry colleagues during recent asbestos surveys. This award celebrates those moments where an unexpected or particularly rare find has made a significant impact on the safety, discovery process, or understanding of asbestos-related risks in the industry.

Award Criteria:

To be considered for this award, the find will be evaluated on the following criteria:

1. Rarity of the Asbestos Find: The uniqueness of the type of asbestos or its location, including finds in unusual or unexpected places.
2. Find Location: How challenging or uncommon the location was (e.g., hidden behind walls, ceilings, or within hard-to-reach areas).
3. How material was identified: Any innovative or creative methods used to uncover, assess, or report the find.

Why Apply?

This award provides a valuable opportunity to showcase expertise, innovation, and dedication to safety in the asbestos consultancy field. Winning the Most Unusual Find on an Asbestos Survey Award will not only highlight an individual's exceptional skills as a surveyor but also enhance their professional reputation within the industry.

Applicants are encouraged to share their unique discoveries with the wider community. For any questions or further information, please feel free to contact us.

How to Apply:

To nominate a candidate for this award, the following must be submitted:

1. A detailed description of the unusual find: Include information about the location, condition, and type of asbestos discovered. Explain why this find is considered unique.
2. Supporting Documentation: This should include photographs.
3. Additional Details: If applicable, include any innovative techniques or approaches used during the survey that contributed to the discovery.

Submission Details:

• Please submit your application by 13 September, 2026.
• Late submissions will not be accepted.
• Applications will be assessed by a panel of experts in the field, and the winner will be announced at the NORAC conference on 1 October, 2026

Disclaimer:

By submitting nominations, supporting materials, or other information for the NORAC Awards, you grant NORAC the right to use, publish, and promote submitted content in relation to the awards, including but not limited to announcements, marketing materials, and event promotions.

Apply Now:

To submit an award nomination, you will need to visit this page while logged in to your account.

Non-paid members are welcome to submit award nominations, but will need to create a free NORAC account first.

Award for the Asbestos Trainee of the Year

Asbestos Trainee of the Year 2025 Award Winner: Ruben Dos Santos - ACE

This award aims to recognise the outstanding achievements of trainees who have demonstrated exceptional performance, growth, and dedication throughout their training year. This award celebrates not only technical excellence but also qualities like leadership, teamwork, and a commitment to professional development.

Award Criteria:

To be considered for this award, the trainee will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

1. Skills Development and Knowledge Acquisition – The trainee's growth and mastery of technical skills, as well as the application of knowledge to real-world tasks.
2. Adaptability and Problem-Solving – The ability to tackle challenges and adapt to new situations with effective solutions.
3. Work Ethic and Reliability – Demonstrated punctuality, dependability, and dedication to meeting deadlines while exceeding expectations.
4. Teamwork and Collaboration – The trainee’s ability to work effectively with colleagues, contribute to team success, and foster a positive working environment.
5. Initiative and Proactiveness – A willingness to take on responsibilities and contribute proactively to the workplace or projects.

Please note: applications for this award will allow for recently authorised staff, providing they held trainee status within the previous 6 months

Why Apply?

This award is a valuable opportunity to recognise hard work and commitment to excellence. Winning the Trainee of the Year Award not only acknowledges an individual's achievements but also highlights them as an exceptional professional in the field. Additionally, the award recognises the winning organisation's commitment to personal development.

Candidates are encouraged to apply and use this opportunity to showcase their accomplishments and aspirations. For any questions or further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us at info@norac.org.uk.

Applications are welcomed, and best wishes to all nominees!

How to Apply:

If you believe one of your trainees meet the criteria and would like to apply, please submit the following:

1. A Statement (max. 1000 words): Please describe the trainees experiences, achievements, and why you think they should be considered for the Trainee of the Year Award. Highlight specific examples of how they’ve demonstrated the qualities listed above.
2. Supporting Documents: These can include qualifications, feedback from supervisors or colleagues, or any other relevant evidence that supports your application.

Please note: we will not accept site documents as evidence so please do not submit these

Submission Details:

• Please submit your application by 13 September, 2026.
• Late submissions will not be accepted, so be sure to submit all materials on time.
• Applications will be assessed by a panel of experts in the field, and the winner will be announced at the NORAC conference on 1 October, 2026

Disclaimer:

By submitting nominations, supporting materials, or other information for the NORAC Awards, you grant NORAC the right to use, publish, and promote submitted content in relation to the awards, including but not limited to announcements, marketing materials, and event promotions.

Apply Now:

To submit an award nomination, you will need to visit this page while logged in to your account.

Non-paid members are welcome to submit award nominations, but will need to create a free NORAC account first.

Jean Prentice Award for Innovation

Jean Prentice Award for Innovation 2025 Winner : John Lyons - BOHS Asbestos P Modules (Posthumous)

We are thrilled to announce the Jean Prentice Innovation Award, which honours the exceptional achievements of individuals who have demonstrated creativity, forward-thinking, and ground-breaking approaches. This award recognizes not only technical excellence but also the ability to innovate, lead, collaborate, and contribute to continuous professional development.

We look forward to celebrating those who push boundaries and inspire progress within their field.

Award Criteria:

To be considered for the Jean Prentice Award for Innovation, candidates will be evaluated based on the following key areas:

1. Originality and Uniqueness – New concepts, creative solutions, novel applications of existing technologies, or ideas that push boundaries.
2. Impact on the Industry – Tangible benefits, such as improving efficiency, reducing costs, enhancing safety, or addressing a major industry challenge.
3. Problem-Solving Effectiveness – Clear and measurable problem-solving that leads to significant improvements or outcomes.
4. Feasibility and Practicality – Realistic implementation potential, considering costs, resources, technology, and the time required to deploy the innovation.
5. Sustainability and Long-Term Value – Longevity of the innovation’s impact, minimal environmental footprint, and ongoing value for users or the industry.
6. Scalability and Adaptability – The ability to expand, replicate, or adjust to new environments or different challenges without major redesigns.

Why Apply?

Jean Prentice is a scientist with extensive experience in asbestos research, analysis, and regulation. She holds an MSc (Hons) in Chemistry from Victoria University, Wellington, NZ, where she specialised in crocidolite. Her career began at Cape Asbestos Fibres Company in the UK, followed by key roles at McCrone, where she served as laboratory manager and scientific director.

She played a crucial role in developing asbestos identification methods and setting industry standards, serving on several technical committees, including ARCA and ACAD. She contributed to key documents such as the HSE’s Analysts’ Guide and Asbestos Survey Guide. After retiring, she continued her influence through FAAM and NORAC committees.

Her work encompassed asbestos analysis, research on fibre release, regulatory development, and microscopy applications across various industries. She also served as a technical consultant to the European Commission on asbestos regulations.

Jean Prentice’s philosophy emphasises curiosity, integrity, and a practical approach to problem-solving.

This award provides a valuable opportunity to gain recognition for innovation and dedication to progress in the field. Winning the Jean Prentice Award for Innovation not only acknowledges an individual's achievements but also distinguishes them as an exceptional professional. Additionally, the award may open doors to further career development opportunities and provide valuable industry exposure.

Candidates are encouraged to apply and use this opportunity to showcase their accomplishments and aspirations. For any questions or further information, please don’t hesitate to contact [contact information].

How to Apply:

If you would like to nominate yourself or another individual for this award, please provide the following information:

1. A personal statement (max. 1000 words) – Applicants must provide details of the innovation they have helped to implement or the boundaries they have pushed to drive continual improvement within the industry. Specific examples demonstrating how the criteria above have been met should be included.
2. Supporting Documentation – This may include work samples, feedback from supervisors or colleagues, or any other relevant evidence that supports the application.

Submission Details:

• Please submit your application by 13 September, 2026.
• Late submissions will not be accepted, so be sure to submit all materials on time.
• Applications will be assessed by a panel of experts in the field, and the winner will be announced at the NORAC conference on 1 October, 2026

Disclaimer:

By submitting nominations, supporting materials, or other information for the NORAC Awards, you grant NORAC the right to use, publish, and promote submitted content in relation to the awards, including but not limited to announcements, marketing materials, and event promotions.

Apply Now:

To submit an award nomination, you will need to visit this page while logged in to your account.

Non-paid members are welcome to submit award nominations, but will need to create a free NORAC account first.

Long Service Achievement Award

Long Service Achievement Award 2025 Winner: Julie Lewis - G&L Consultancy

We are pleased to announce the Long Service Achievement Award, recognising individuals who have made significant, long-term contributions to the asbestos consultancy industry. This prestigious award honours an individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, expertise, and dedication throughout their career, with a focus on improving safety standards, advancing industry practices, and mentoring future professionals.

Eligibility:

To be eligible for this award, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• A minimum of 15 years of experience working in the asbestos consultancy industry.
• Proven track record of significant contributions to the development of industry standards, safety practices, or innovations.
• Demonstrated leadership and mentorship in the industry.
• A commitment to continuous professional development and ethical practices.

Award Criteria:

To be considered for this award, applicants will be evaluated on the following criteria:

1. Years of Experience in the Industry
2. Contributions to Industry Standards and Practices
3. Leadership and Mentorship
4. Commitment to Health and Safety
5. Industry Recognition and Reputation
6. Contributions to Industry Education and Training
7. Advocacy and Public Engagement
8. Sustainability and Ethical Practices

Why Apply?

This award not only recognises the individual achievements of seasoned professionals but also celebrates the long-term positive impact they’ve made on the industry, ensuring that their legacy continues to inspire future generations.

We look forward to receiving your applications and celebrating the contributions of those who have shaped and continue to influence the asbestos consultancy industry.

If you have any questions or need further information, please contact us at info@norac.org.uk.

How to Apply:

If you would like to nominate yourself or another individual for this award, please provide the following information:

1. A personal statement (max. 1000 words) – A detailed account of career achievements, contributions to the industry, and an explanation of why the nominee is a suitable candidate for this award.
2. Supporting Documentation – This may include industry recognitions, references from colleagues or clients, examples of work or publications, and any additional evidence of contributions to the industry.
3. A brief outline of key professional milestones – Highlighting leadership, innovations, and overall impact on the industry.

Submission Details:

• Please submit your application by 13 September, 2026.
• Late submissions will not be accepted, so be sure to submit all materials on time.
• Applications will be assessed by a panel of experts in the field, and the winner will be announced at the NORAC conference on 1 October, 2026

Disclaimer:

By submitting nominations, supporting materials, or other information for the NORAC Awards, you grant NORAC the right to use, publish, and promote submitted content in relation to the awards, including but not limited to announcements, marketing materials, and event promotions.

Apply Now:

To submit an award nomination, you will need to visit this page while logged in to your account.

Non-paid members are welcome to submit award nominations, but will need to create a free NORAC account first.