Rate My Professor Matt Davies

Dr Matt Davies is a Lecturer and Associate Lecturer in the Curtin School of Population Health, part of the Faculty of Health Sciences at Curtin University. His academic and professional qualifications encompass a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Psychology (BSc(EnvSci, Psych)), a PhD, Graduate Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety (GD OHS), Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (Cert IV TAA), Fellow of the Australian Institute of Health & Safety (FAIHS), and Certified Occupational Health and Safety Professional (ChOHSP). These credentials underpin his transition back to academia following a distinguished 25-year career as a health and safety professional in high-risk industries including marine operations, construction, resources, and local government sectors. This extensive industry experience informs his practical approach to education and research in occupational health and safety.

Dr Davies delivers specialized teaching in occupational health and safety through units such as OCHS3005 HSE Professional Practice, which focuses on health, safety, and environmental professional competencies; OCHS2001 Workplace Human Factors, exploring ergonomic and psychological influences on safety; and OCHS3001 Understanding Employment and Environmental Law in OHS Practices, addressing legal frameworks and compliance in occupational settings. Beyond teaching, he has contributed significantly as an Expert Advisor and Technical Advisor to the OHS Body of Knowledge, particularly chapter 38.3 on Ethics and Professional Practice (2019), emphasizing ethical decision-making, moral agency, and professional integrity for OHS practitioners. Dr Davies served as Chair of the Ethics Committee for the Australian Institute of Health & Safety and was a member of the College of Fellows Executive until his resignation midway through 2020 due to work pressures. He further disseminated his expertise via a presentation on ethical dilemmas in the safety profession—covering moral questions, decision-making processes, professional integrity, and value conflicts—at a World Safety Organization webinar on 22 September 2021. His multifaceted career bridges practical safety management with academic and professional leadership in advancing OHS standards.