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At Abbott Laboratories (Ireland) Expert A. Expert served as the chief technical resource for the sterilization of medical devices by ionizing radiation (gamma) and ethylene oxide (EO). He was directly responsible for certification and validation of a number of gamma irradiation facilities in Europe. This also involved development, testing and approval of a wide range of plastic materials. He was intimately involved in the startup of the major contract gamma sterilization facility in Ireland. He developed a novel (confidential) source characterization technique that greatly simplified this task as well as developing a simple product simulation system that facilitated accurate placing of dosimeters during multiple runs. He also managed the construction of a new automated EO sterilization facility with a capacity for three 12-pallet chambers. He also developed and implemented the validation protocols for this equipment.

Expert is a Graduate Member of the UK Institute of Packaging and has many years’ experience in the selection of materials, package design, and automatic packaging equipment for the disposable medical device industry, particularly in the area of high-speed form-fill-seal equipment. He currently lectures on pharmaceutical packaging design to pharmaceutical science students.

Expert has considerable experience in the use of cobalt-60 sterilization systems. He was responsible for the development and implementation of the first customer validation programs carried out on an MDS-Nordion facility in Ireland in 1995.

Having recently completed a Diploma in Occupational Health & Safety (with Distinction) and a Bachelor of Science Degree in OH&S (with 1st Class Honours), Expert is now using his over 30 years of manufacturing engineering experience to advise on construction safety. He is currently on contract to Ireland's largest construction company in the capacity of Safety Manager on a pharmaceutical manufacturing facility. The key responsibilities here relate to managing the safety related activities of external contractors, including risk assessments, development of control measures, and reviewing/approving method statements. Specific areas of application include: developing and delivering accident and injury reduction programs; advising on confined space safety; dealing with excavations, drainage and general ground works; eye protection against injury from the use of various processes including rotating, percussion, and explosive tools, hand tools, plant and specialized equipment and use of chemicals; administration of a permitting system for many activities including "working at heights"; and development and implementation of lockout/tagout procedures for electrical, mechanical, and chemical processes.

In addition to his on-the-job consulting work mentioned above, Expert advises on safety in off-the-job situations including on the topic of "home safety". He has also recently delivered safety lectures to schools, under the banner of "Play Safe-Stay Safe,” in relation to construction sites.


Expert currently provides a safety and environmental consultancy service to construction and manufacturing clients. Expert provides assistance with interpretation of regulatory requirements in relation to safety and environmental management systems.