Introduction

The Welding Institute have been keeping in contact with our Members across the globe to see how the coronavirus outbreak is impacting different corners of the world. This Insight looks at Member Chris Cobain’s experience in Perth, Western Australia.

Chris Cobain MWeldI CEng

Chris Cobain MWeldI CEng has been a Member of The Welding Institute for four years and is also a volunteer responsible for assessing applications for professional registration. He sent us news, earlier this month, of how Covid-19 had impacted his life in Perth, Western Australia.

How has Covid-19 impacted you personally?

Chris relayed a message that is familiar to us all, noting that the ‘most significant negative impacts involve family and friends and social activity.’ He explained that his families’ ‘social life with friends was an important activity for us to escape from work related stress,’ adding that it is difficult for his family not being able to see relatives face-to-face. However, Chris also highlighted that, through this time, there have been ‘noticeable benefits including spending more time with my wife without feeling work exhausted’ and added that different family activities had become the new norm, such as family walks, cooking, gardening and more.

How has Covid-19 impacted on your work?

He explained that, ‘right now, our business earnings are down approximately 30% compared to the same time in 2019. The overseas and remote location travel are impacting our earning potential too.’ He further added that, ‘several large oil and gas projects of involvement have been delayed, impacting our earnings.’ Despite these factors, Chris said a positive outcome is that that he is, ‘enjoying the new work / life balance provided by the pandemic situation.’

What have you learnt from the current situation?

Through this period of time, Chris described how, ‘we can easily be drawn into living life revolving around work responsibilities’ and explained that relaxing the work demand has allowed him to focus on other important things in life. He explained how he noticed that, ‘human behaviour in a pandemic situation focuses on self needs initially, however respect for community needs is noticeable and is nice to witness.’ He added that, moving forward, he hopes that the current attitudes of ‘community support, respect for others and working together continue in the future.’

What can you share with other Members at this time?

Chris concluded by saying that, ‘on a personal level, having more time to spend with family and enjoying local outdoor activities with loved ones is something I will be continuing in the future. I’ve found talking with family and friends, noticing increased wildlife activity within our environment, and making good use of time around the home personally rewarding. It’s amazing what can be achieved when a community not only works together but also trusts each other. Something that can be easily incorporated into working relationships too.’