Quest Magazine

Independent resettlement & recruitment guide for Armed Forces & Veterans

Health and Safety



Health and Safety

Careers

05 Sep, 2024

Today's health and safety professionals are on a mission to protect the workforce by adopting a proactive and preventive stance against issues like injuries, accidents, and equipment failures. Do you possess the qualities to be part of this crucial endeavour?


What’s involved?

A career in health and safety is a natural fit for many individuals transitioning from the Armed Forces, where discipline, risk management, and leadership are core values. Health and safety professionals play a crucial role in protecting lives by ensuring safe working environments and preventing accidents and injuries.

Core Responsibilities: Health and safety roles typically involve developing and implementing policies and procedures to prevent hazardous situations. This often includes:

  • Risk Assessment: Identifying potential hazards and evaluating risks in the workplace.
  • Compliance: Ensuring adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations and standards.
  • Training and Education: Providing safety training to employees and raising awareness about safe practices
  • Incident Investigation: Investigating accidents to determine causes and prevent future occurrences.
  • Environmental Management: Addressing environmental concerns and ensuring sustainable practices are followed.
HSE Roles: The field often integrates an environmental component, leading to titles such as Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) or Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE) officers. These professionals work across various sectors, from small consultancies to large corporations, and collaborate with employees, management, and external bodies to maintain a safe and compliant work environment.

Evolving Focus: Health and safety roles have shifted from reactive, incident-based management to a proactive, preventive approach. This evolution is supported by industry-recognised qualifications such as NEBOSH (National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health) certificates and diplomas, which are essential for those looking to advance in this field.

Career Opportunities: The scope of health and safety careers is broad and versatile. Potential roles include:

  • HSE Officer/Advisor: Responsible for implementing safety measures and ensuring compliance with regulations.
  • Safety Director/Manager: Overseeing the entire safety program within an organisation.
  • Environmental Health Officer: Ensuring businesses comply with environmental laws.
  • Product Safety Consultant: Ensuring products meet safety standards before entering the market.
  • Compliance Investigator: Monitoring adherence to safety regulations within companies.

Legal Obligations: Employers are legally required to appoint individuals deemed 'competent' to manage health and safety responsibilities. Competence is defined by not only having the necessary experience and training but also by keeping up-to-date with the latest health and safety regulations and best practices to effectively manage risks.


Health and safety Sign

The day job

A career in health and safety involves a variety of responsibilities aimed at maintaining a safe and compliant workplace. Each day brings new challenges, from conducting thorough inspections to ensuring that all safety protocols are followed. Health and safety professionals are essential in identifying risks, preventing accidents, and promoting a culture of safety across all levels of an organisation.

  • Conducting Inspections and Risk Assessments:
    One of the primary duties is to regularly inspect the workplace to identify potential hazards. This includes evaluating equipment, processes, and the work environment to assess risks. The goal is to prevent accidents before they occur by ensuring that all aspects of the workplace meet safety standards.
  • Investigating Accidents:
    When incidents do occur, it's crucial to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the root cause. This involves collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analysing what went wrong. The findings are used to implement corrective actions and prevent similar incidents in the future.
  • Record-Keeping:
    Accurate and detailed records are vital in the field of health and safety. Professionals must use digital record-keeping systems to document inspections, risk assessments, and incident reports meticulously. These records ensure compliance with legal requirements and provide a historical account that can be easily accessed and analysed for continuous improvement.
  • Report Writing:
    Writing clear and concise reports is a critical part of the job. Whether summarising an inspection, detailing the findings of an accident investigation, or recommending safety improvements, these reports must be comprehensive and accessible to all stakeholders, including management and regulatory bodies.
  • Advising on Protective Measures:
    Health and safety professionals advise on the appropriate protective measures that should be implemented to mitigate identified risks. This includes recommending personal protective equipment (PPE), implementing safety protocols, and ensuring that safety barriers and signage are in place.
  • Equipment Safety:
    Ensuring that all equipment is safe to use is another key responsibility. This includes regular inspections, maintenance checks, and verifying that all machinery complies with safety regulations. Equipment safety is critical to preventing accidents and ensuring the smooth operation of the workplace.
  • Hazardous Substance Management:
    Managing hazardous substances involves ensuring that they are stored, handled, and disposed of safely. Professionals must ensure that proper labelling, usage guidelines, and emergency procedures are in place to protect workers from harmful exposure.
  • Training Provision:
    Educating and training employees on health and safety practices is an ongoing task. This includes using traditional methods and modern technologies such as virtual reality (VR) to conduct training sessions on the use of PPE, emergency procedures, and specific safety protocols relevant to their roles. Regular training helps to embed a culture of safety within the organisation.
  • Staying Informed:
    The field of health and safety is continually evolving, with new regulations, technologies, and best practices emerging regularly. Professionals must stay informed by attending relevant training, participating in professional networks, and keeping up with industry publications to ensure they are applying the most current and effective safety measures.

In summary, the day-to-day work of a health and safety professional is varied and requires a proactive approach to ensure the ongoing safety and well-being of everyone in the workplace.


NEBOSH National General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

The essential first step to a career in HSE

Skill up while serving

It's well-known that military personnel often operate in potentially hazardous environments or work with dangerous equipment, making health and safety awareness a critical component of their daily responsibilities. Whether on the front lines, in training, or in support roles, service members routinely engage with Health and Safety Executive (HSE) principles, even if they don’t always explicitly recognise them as such. These experiences build a solid foundation in risk management and safety practices that are directly applicable to civilian careers in health and safety.

For those interested in further developing their HSE expertise while still serving, the military offers a range of modular training courses that now include advanced simulations and digital training environments. These courses lead to certifications and qualifications valuable both within the military and civilian sectors, enhancing prospects for a successful career in health and safety.

Key Skills Gained in the Armed Forces:

  • Risk Assessment Skills: Military personnel are trained to assess and manage risks in a wide variety of challenging environments, from combat zones to technical operations. This experience is highly valued in the health and safety field, where accurate risk assessment is crucial.
  • Leadership and Communication: The military places a strong emphasis on leadership and clear communication, both of which are essential in health and safety roles. Effective leadership ensures that safety protocols are followed, while strong communication skills are necessary for training and guiding teams.
  • Emergency Response Expertise: Military training includes rigorous preparation for emergency situations. The ability to stay calm under pressure, make quick decisions, and respond effectively to emergencies is a critical skill that translates seamlessly into health and safety positions, particularly in industries like construction, manufacturing, and healthcare.
  • Adherence to Protocols: The military's focus on strict adherence to protocols and procedures ensures that service members are well-prepared to enforce safety guidelines in civilian roles. This discipline is key to maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations in any workplace.
  • Problem-Solving Acumen: Military personnel are often required to think on their feet and solve complex problems with limited resources. This problem-solving ability is vital in health and safety, where professionals must identify potential hazards and develop practical solutions to prevent accidents and injuries.

    By recognising and enhancing these skills through targeted training and certification programs, military personnel can contribute effectively to the safety and well-being of their comrades during service and transition into successful civilian careers in health and safety. The skills honed in the military, such as strategic planning, crisis management, and adherence to stringent protocols, align well with the current health and safety focus on technology-driven risk management and predictive analytics, making veterans highly sought after in the health and safety profession.

Health and safety Hard Hat with cranes
FACTFILE

NEED TO KNOW

  1. Health & Safety Executive – the government body that ensures risks to health and safety from work situations are properly controlled
  2. Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) – the professional body for HSE practitioners
  3. National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) – an independent awarding body for health, safety and environmental management qualifications (universities and other bodies also provide qualifications recognised by IOSH)

WHERE DO HSE PROFESSIONALS WORK?

Common areas of employment include:

  • chemicals and allied industries
  • construction
  • education and training
  • engineering
  • hospitals and clinics
  • local government
  • manufacturing
  • oil and gas
  • transport
  • telecommunications.
  • Renewable energy
  • Technology

TRANSFER YOUR SKILLS

The skills and qualities essential for an HSE professional are very likely to be familiar to military people like you:

  • self-confidence
  • an eye for detail
  • problem-solving skills
  • systematic approach to work situations
  • diversity of work environments
  • good communication skills (for writing reports, or dealing with both employers and employees)
  • flexibility
  • wide-ranging responsibilities
  • the ability to analyse what went wrong and, importantly, how to put it right.

Additionally, digital literacy and data analysis are becoming increasingly important as technology integrates into health and safety management.

FIND JOB VACANCIES AT …

Additionally, professional networking sites like LinkedIn are invaluable for connecting with industry professionals and discovering opportunities.

WHAT’S IT REALLY LIKE?

To get a real idea of what it’s like to transition from the Armed Forces to an HSE role, take a look at the following reports from former Service personnel who studied with NEBOSH and did just that:

  • Darren Culshaw, Health, Safety and Security Manager, Royal Yacht Britannia, former Royal Navy
  • Adam King, Head of SHEQ, Renewi, former Royal Marine
  • Mark Stevens, Health and Safety Advisor, The Building Safety Group, former Royal Engineer
  • Mark Richardson, Health and Safety Manager, Vue Entertainment, Army Reservist 

Finding a Job in Health and Safety 

Pursuing a career in health and safety offers a dynamic and rewarding path, especially for those with a strong commitment to workplace safety and a keen eye for detail. Whether transitioning from the Armed Forces or entering the field from another industry, the journey typically begins with obtaining key qualifications such as NEBOSH or IOSH certifications, and increasingly, specialized training in areas like health safety technology and cybersecurity. Building relevant experience through internships, volunteering, or related roles is crucial for practical knowledge and career advancement.

Pathways into the Profession:

Aspiring health and safety professionals often enter the field by completing relevant qualifications, such as NEBOSH (National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health) certifications, or by studying while already working in a related role. In 2025, there is an observable trend where candidates are not only entering the profession with traditional degree-level qualifications in occupational health and safety, environmental management, or similar fields but are also increasingly bringing skills in data analytics, technology management, and sustainability. These competencies reflect the sector's ongoing evolution towards greater professionalisation and the integration of digital tools in managing health and safety concerns.

Key Skills and Qualities:

Employers in health and safety highly value interpersonal skills and the ability to manage people effectively. Professionals adept at communicating safety procedures clearly and fostering a culture of safety within an organization are particularly sought after. Additionally, proficiency in using new technologies and data analysis tools is increasingly important, as these skills support the management of emerging health and safety challenges. The ability to continuously update and expand one's skill set, including staying abreast of new regulations, technologies, and best practices, remains crucial for career success. Lifelong learning is a key component of a successful career in this ever-evolving field.

Specialised Skills:

Job seekers who can offer specialized skills, including in-house training capabilities in areas like manual handling, first aid, or risk assessment, remain highly attractive to employers. Additionally, expertise in digital safety management systems, cybersecurity as it pertains to health and safety, and sustainable environmental practices are increasingly sought after. The demand for 'competent' health and safety professionals, as defined by regulations such as the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, underscores the importance of having diverse qualifications and the ability to apply them effectively in various aspects of the workplace. This adaptability is crucial for addressing the modern challenges of health and safety management.

Employment Opportunities:

Health and safety roles are diverse and span across various industries. Professionals can find opportunities in small companies where they might be the sole HSE officer, or in larger organisations with dedicated safety teams. Specialised companies that focus on areas like safety audits, engineering surveys, and risk assessments also offer numerous roles. The growing trend of remote work and virtual safety management also opens new avenues for health and safety professionals, especially in sectors recognizing the importance of maintaining safe working environments in complex, multi-use facilities.

Training and Development:

Employers increasingly seek health and safety advisers with training qualifications who can assess, design, and deliver comprehensive safety training programs, including the use of digital tools and simulation technologies. These capabilities not only make candidates more versatile but also significantly enhance their value in a competitive job market, where technological proficiency is becoming as critical as traditional health and safety knowledge.

Opportunities with the Health & Safety Executive (HSE):

For those interested in working with the Health & Safety Executive, recruitment is typically conducted through an online application process, which may now include interactive assessments and virtual interviews to accommodate a wider range of applicants. New recruits often undergo extensive training, potentially including up to two years in the Field Operations Directorate, with opportunities for advancement in specialized areas such as the Hazardous Installations Directorate and roles focusing on digital safety compliance.

Navigating the job market in health and safety requires a blend of relevant qualifications, strong interpersonal skills, and a dedication to continuous professional development. By staying informed of industry trends and expanding their skill sets, health and safety professionals can position themselves for success in this vital and ever-growing field.


Get qualified!

Transitioning from the British Armed Forces to a career in health and safety is a well-trodden path, as many of the skills acquired during military service are directly applicable to the field. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to qualify for a health and safety career after leaving the forces:

1. Leverage Your Military Experience

Risk Management: Your experience in risk assessment, hazard identification, and emergency response in various military operations provides a solid foundation for health and safety roles.

Leadership and Communication: The leadership, communication, and people management skills developed during service are highly valued in health and safety positions, where guiding teams and enforcing safety protocols are key responsibilities.

Adherence to Protocols: Military personnel are trained to follow strict procedures, a quality that aligns perfectly with the compliance-focused nature of health and safety roles.

2. Obtain Relevant Qualifications

NEBOSH Qualifications: Consider starting with the NEBOSH General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety, which is widely recognised and provides a strong grounding in health and safety management. For more advanced roles, you might pursue the NEBOSH Diploma.

IOSH Membership: The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) offers membership levels (Affiliate, Associate, Technical, Graduate, and Chartered) that correspond to your experience and qualifications. Completing the IOSH Managing Safely course can also be a good starting point.

Additional Certifications: Depending on your career goals, consider other certifications like the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card, particularly if you aim to work in construction or related industries.

3. Consider ELCAS Funding

Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC): As a service leaver, you may be eligible for ELCAS funding to cover the cost of health and safety training courses. These credits can be used towards NEBOSH, IOSH, and other relevant qualifications, easing the financial burden of reskilling.

4. Gain Practical Experience

Work Placements or Internships: While still in service, consider applying for work placements or internships in health and safety to gain practical experience. This hands-on experience is invaluable and can make you more competitive in the job market.

Volunteering: Engage in volunteering that involves health and safety roles in both traditional settings and remote monitoring environments, to broaden your practical skills.

5. Network with Industry Professionals

Attend Industry Events: Engage with health and safety professionals by attending seminars, workshops, and networking events. Organisations like IOSH often host events that can provide insights into the industry and opportunities to meet potential employers.

Join Professional Bodies: Joining professional bodies like IOSH or the British Safety Council can provide access to resources, job boards, and professional development opportunities.

6. Utilize Career Transition Services

CTP Assistance: Utilize workshops, training, and one-on-one guidance offered by the Career Transition Partnership (CTP) to help transition into civilian employment, including digital tools for networking.

Networking with Fellow Veterans: Use online platforms such as LinkedIn and veteran forums to connect with peers who have transitioned into health and safety roles, gaining insights and job leads.

7. Apply for Jobs

Tailored CV and Cover Letter: Highlight your military experience, especially your risk management, leadership, and safety-related skills, in your CV and cover letter. Tailor your application to the specific requirements of each job.

Targeted Job Search: Look for entry-level positions, such as Health and Safety Assistant or Coordinator, to get your foot in the door. Use job boards, recruitment agencies specialising in health and safety, and veteran-focused employment services to find opportunities.


NEBOSH: A Gateway to a Career in Health and Safety
The National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) is a globally recognised organisation that provides qualifications in health, safety, and environmental management. Established in 1979, NEBOSH has become one of the most respected and widely sought-after certifications for professionals in the health and safety field, making it a key credential for those looking to advance or start a career in this area.

What is NEBOSH?
NEBOSH offers a range of qualifications that cater to different levels of experience and expertise, from introductory certificates to advanced diplomas. These qualifications are designed to provide learners with the knowledge and skills needed to manage health and safety risks effectively in the workplace, ensure compliance with regulations, and promote a culture of safety.

Key NEBOSH Qualifications

NEBOSH General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety: This is one of the most popular and widely recognised NEBOSH qualifications. It provides a comprehensive overview of health and safety principles, making it an excellent starting point for those new to the field or those who want to formalise their experience with a recognised credential. The course covers topics such as risk assessment, accident prevention, and the responsibilities of health and safety professionals.

NEBOSH National Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety: This is a more advanced qualification aimed at professionals who wish to progress to a senior role in health and safety management. The diploma covers in-depth topics, including health and safety law, risk management, and occupational health, and it is considered a key qualification for those aspiring to become chartered members of professional bodies such as IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health).

NEBOSH International General Certificate: Similar to the National General Certificate but with a focus on international standards and practices, this qualification is ideal for professionals working in multinational organisations or in countries outside of the UK.

NEBOSH Certificate in Fire Safety and Risk Management: This qualification is designed for those who have fire safety responsibilities in their workplace. It covers the principles of fire risk management, including how to carry out fire risk assessments and ensure that adequate fire safety measures are in place.

NEBOSH Environmental Management Certificate: For those interested in environmental management alongside health and safety, this qualification provides knowledge on managing environmental risks, implementing effective environmental management systems, and ensuring compliance with environmental legislation.

Why NEBOSH?

Global Recognition: NEBOSH qualifications are recognized by employers and professional bodies around the world, serving as a benchmark for best practices in health and safety. Recently, NEBOSH has expanded its global partnerships, further enhancing its international credibility and making its certifications even more valuable for career advancement worldwide.

Career Advancement: Holding a NEBOSH qualification can significantly enhance your employability and open up opportunities for progression in the health and safety field. Many employers require or prefer candidates with NEBOSH qualifications, especially for roles that involve managing health and safety systems or leading teams.

Professional Development: NEBOSH courses are designed to provide practical skills and knowledge that can be directly applied in the workplace. Recent updates to the curriculum now include modules on digital safety management and psychological health, preparing candidates for comprehensive roles in modern workplaces. These courses also set the stage for further professional development, such as achieving Chartered Member status of IOSH (CMIOSH) or other professional bodies.

Flexible Learning: NEBOSH qualifications can be pursued through various learning methods, including classroom-based courses, fully online learning, and blended education options. This flexibility allows learners to study at their own pace and balance their education with work or other commitments, with many courses now offering interactive, virtual classroom environments and digital resources to enhance learning.

NEBOSH for Armed Forces Personnel

For individuals leaving the Armed Forces, NEBOSH qualifications offer an excellent pathway to a civilian career in health and safety. The structured, disciplined approach learned in the military aligns well with the skills needed to succeed in health and safety roles. Furthermore, service members can often utilise funding such as Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) to cover the cost of NEBOSH courses, making it an accessible option for many.


Health and safety sign with safety First

NEBOSH National Diploma for Occupational Health and Safety Management Professionals

Seen as 'the' qualification for aspiring HSE management professionals


IOSH 

IOSH is a chartered body that represents and supports health and safety professionals across all sectors. Its mission is to create a world of work that is safe, healthy, and sustainable. To achieve this, IOSH provides a range of services including membership, training, professional development, and advocacy.

IOSH Membership

IOSH membership is open to individuals at all stages of their health and safety careers, from newcomers to seasoned professionals, and increasingly emphasizes the importance of digital competencies in the health and safety field:

  • Affiliate Member: Open to anyone with an interest in health and safety. This entry-level membership provides access to IOSH resources, networks, and introductory digital tools training.
  • Associate Member (AIOSH): For those who have gained formal qualifications in health and safety, such as the IOSH Managing Safely course, or equivalent, including an understanding of digital safety management systems.
  • Technical Member (Tech IOSH): For professionals with a recognized health and safety qualification like a NEBOSH General Certificate and practical experience, including the application of technology in health and safety practices.
  • Graduate Member (Grad IOSH): Aimed at individuals with a degree-level qualification in health and safety or a related field, focusing on the integration of technology in health and safety management.
  • Chartered Member (CMIOSH): The highest level of IOSH membership, requiring significant experience, qualifications, and a commitment to continuing professional development, including advanced digital safety management.
  • Chartered Fellow (CFIOSH): For those who have been Chartered Members for at least five years and have made a significant contribution to the profession, including advancements in health and safety technology.

IOSH Training and Qualifications

IOSH offers a range of training courses catering to different levels of experience and areas of interest, adapting to current industry needs:

  • IOSH Managing Safely: Popular among managers and supervisors, this course now includes modules on managing health and safety in remote work environments.
  • IOSH Working Safely: Aimed at all employees, covering essentials of health and safety with an added focus on mental health awareness.
  • IOSH Leading Safely: Designed for senior leaders, providing insights into leading on health and safety, including strategic management of health and safety in technologically advanced workplaces.

These courses are delivered by approved training providers around the world and are recognised by employers as evidence of a commitment to maintaining high standards of health and safety.

IOSH for Armed Forces Personnel
For those transitioning from the Armed Forces, IOSH membership and qualifications can be a valuable asset. The structured, disciplined approach ingrained in military service is highly compatible with the requirements of health and safety roles. Many ex-service personnel find that IOSH courses, particularly IOSH Managing Safely, provide an excellent foundation for a new career in this field. Furthermore, IOSH's network of professionals offers valuable support and opportunities for career development.


    Other qualifications

    When pursuing a career in health and safety, several key qualifications can significantly enhance your expertise and employability. Beyond NEBOSH and IOSH, the British Safety Council (BSC) offers widely recognized qualifications such as the Level 2 and Level 3 Awards in Health and Safety in the Workplace, continually updated to include the latest practices and regulations. For more advanced professionals, the BSC’s International Diploma in Occupational Safety and Health now includes modules on global health emergencies and digital safety management strategies, making it ideal for those looking to assume senior roles in various international contexts.

    City & Guilds, known for its practical, vocational qualifications, offers the Level 3 Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety, which now includes access to online learning platforms and virtual reality simulations. The Level 5 NVQ Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice continues to emphasize practical, on-the-job competence, now incorporating digital tools for workplace safety management.

    The Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) and the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) offer qualifications blending health, safety, and environmental management. IEMA’s updated curriculum now also focuses on climate change adaptation strategies alongside sustainability in safety practices. CIEH’s qualifications have expanded to include more in-depth training on environmental health risks associated with climate change, catering to both generalist and specialist roles.

    NVQ Diplomas in Occupational Health and Safety remain valuable for their competency-based approach, now also integrating training on remote monitoring technologies and data analysis tools. These diplomas are available at various levels and cater to both newcomers and seasoned professionals, offering pathways to advance within the health and safety field by focusing on practical application and adapting to modern workplace environments.

    Use your ELC

    Under the ELC scheme, a wide range of learning can be taken, provided it is offered by an approved provider listed on the ELC website and is at level 3 or above. For full details of how to make the most of your ELC, refer to the in-depth features elsewhere on this website.

    NEBOSH OPEN-BOOK EXAMS

    NEBOSH has adopted a new approach to enable its learners to carry out their assessments from a location of their choice. Its National and International General Certificates were the first qualifications to offer remote assessment, and open-book exams have been taking place since August 2020. An open-book examination enables learners to take exams in a safe location of their choosing. The approach also has the added benefit of enabling people in even more countries around the world to study towards and gain a NEBOSH qualification.

    Unlike invigilated paper-based exams, NEBOSH’s open-book examinations present learners with a real-life scenario followed by a related series of questions that require them to demonstrate the application of their skills. 

    Further information, including a selection of guidance and support resources, is available here.

    HEALTH & SAFETY APPRENTICESHIPS
    Opportunities available in this sector include the Health, Safety and Environment Technician apprenticeship. Alternatively, use your favourite search engine to discover more options. Or browse the government’s apprenticeship website or Find Apprenticeships, both of which allow you to search for apprenticeship opportunities by area of interest and location.

    Chief Petty Officer Mark Campbell case study - Click here

    To view our full list of Health & Safety courses - Click here


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