Case Studies

When did you know you wanted to build a career in health and safety and how did you make it a reality?
My passion began early in my career when I witnessed first-hand the profound impact that effective safety management can have. Getting it right not only protects lives but also fosters a positive workplace culture. I hold a BSc in Occupational Safety, Health, and the Environment from the University of Greenwich, and have pursued globally recognised professional certifications throughout my career.

My career started in site-level safety roles, where I gained hands-on experience in hazard identification, incident investigation, and the implementation of proactive control measures. These formative years taught me the importance of clear communication, stakeholder engagement, and practical problem-solving in dynamic, high-risk environments. Over time, I progressed into senior leadership positions, which enabled me to influence policy, develop strategic safety frameworks, and embed a strong safety culture across diverse, multi-disciplinary teams.

Today, I take pride in holding a role where I can make a tangible and lasting impact—ensuring that safety is not seen as a box-ticking compliance exercise, but as a fundamental, organisation-wide value that drives operational excellence, safeguards people, and enhances business performance. I also remain committed to continuous professional development, to ensure I stay informed about technological advancements, evolving industry standards, and regulatory changes.

Most of your experience has been in construction. What do you consider to be the main health and safety challenges in this sector?
In the construction industry, health and safety challenges are both complex and dynamic due to the nature of the work and the constantly changing conditions on site. Evolving environments mean hazards can emerge rapidly—from shifting ground conditions to new structural or mechanical risks as projects progress. High-risk activities such as working at height, lifting and rigging operations, confined space entry, and the use of heavy machinery demand rigorous control measures and continuous monitoring to prevent serious incidents.

One of the most significant challenges is coordinating multiple contractors and subcontractors, each with varying levels of safety awareness and experience. Ensuring consistency across all parties requires robust systems for induction, ongoing training, and regular audits. The sector’s inherently diverse workforce adds another layer of complexity, as cultural differences, varied educational backgrounds, and language barriers can hinder effective communication and understanding of safety requirements.

Moreover, the industry is often driven by tight deadlines and budgetary constraints, which can create pressure to bypass procedures or rush critical activities. These pressures must be counterbalanced by strong leadership that prioritises safety over speed and cost. This means embedding safety as a non-negotiable core value from the planning stage through to project handover—supported by clear communication channels, proactive hazard identification, and a culture of accountability at every level.

Ultimately, overcoming these challenges requires more than compliance. It demands a strategic, people-focused approach where safety is integrated into operational decision-making, reinforced through visible leadership, and embraced by every individual on site as part of their professional responsibility.

You have completed three certificate level NEBOSH qualifications - the General Certificate, the Construction Certificate and the Fire Certificate. Can you tell us:

• Why you chose to take these qualifications?

It was a deliberate strategy on my part to build a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary understanding of health and safety. Collectively, these qualifications provide a robust knowledge base and the practical skills needed to address both common and construction specific risks with confidence.

The NEBOSH General Certificate gave me a strong foundation in core HSE principles, including hazard identification, risk assessment, control measures, and legal compliance—skills that are applicable across all industries. It also developed my ability to interpret and apply international safety standards, ensuring my approach aligns with global best practice.

The NEBOSH Construction Certificate built upon this foundation by exploring the unique high-risk activities, complex work environments, and evolving challenges within the construction sector. It deepened my understanding of topics such as working at height, excavation safety, lifting operations, excavation work, temporary works, and contractor management. The knowledge gained enabled me to implement targeted, effective control measures in line with project demands.

The NEBOSH Fire Certificate provided specialist knowledge in fire safety management, covering risk assessment, prevention strategies, emergency planning, and response. In the construction sector, where hot works, combustible materials, and temporary facilities can significantly increase fire risk, I felt this knowledge was vital.

• How has achieving these qualifications helped you?

Achieving these qualifications significantly enhanced my technical expertise, professional confidence, and credibility. Together, they deepened my knowledge, sharpened my decision-making under pressure, strengthened my ability to design and implement robust safety systems, and improved my capacity to communicate effectively with teams from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds.
They also reinforced my commitment to best practice, continuous improvement, and ensuring that safety remains a core value recognised by clients, regulators, and all project stakeholders.

The integrated skill set I gained has enabled me to strengthen workplace safety performance, support operational efficiency and enhance business reputation. By combining these three qualifications, I feel I gained the knowledge and confidence I needed to manage health and safety at both operational and strategic levels.

You are now a dual NEBOSH Diploma holder, having completed the NEBOSH International Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety and the National Diploma in Environmental Management:

• Why did you choose to take these qualifications?

I felt that attaining both NEBOSH Diploma qualifications would enable me to operate at the highest professional level and position myself as a leader capable of delivering comprehensive, integrated HSE strategies.

The Occupational Health and Safety Diploma provided advanced, strategic-level expertise in identifying and managing complex risks, developing and implementing effective safety policies, and leading cultural. It also deepened my ability to interpret international legislation, apply management systems such as ISO 45001, and ensure that safety is embedded as a core value at every organisational level.

The Environmental Management Diploma complemented this by equipping me with specialist knowledge in sustainability, environmental compliance, pollution prevention, and resource efficiency. It also strengthened my ability to implement environmental management systems aligned with ISO 14001, ensuring operational activities minimise environmental impact while maintaining efficiency. This expertise is increasingly critical as businesses face growing regulatory requirements and stakeholder expectations to demonstrate environmental stewardship.

Together, these qualifications have enabled me to adopt a holistic, integrated approach—embedding health, safety, and environmental priorities into every stage of operations. This not only ensures compliance and risk reduction but also drives sustainability initiatives, enhances corporate reputation, and supports long-term business resilience and success.

• How did you find studying at Diploma Level?

Studying at Diploma level was both intellectually challenging and professionally rewarding. The depth and breadth of the syllabus demanded sustained commitment, advanced research skills, and the ability to critically analyse complex concepts before applying them to real-world scenarios. The content extended far beyond operational knowledge and encouraged strategic thinking. They covered how to effectively manage risks, shape organisational culture, influence policy decisions, and drive sustainable, long-term improvements in health, safety, and environmental performance.

I particularly valued how each programme encouraged critical thinking and problem-solving. I was required to evaluate case studies, interpret legislation, and develop evidence-based recommendations. I found I could apply the concepts I was learning immediately to refine risk management frameworks, improve incident investigation processes, and enhance stakeholder engagement strategies. As a result, the knowledge gained delivered immediate tangible and measurable benefits to my organisation.

• How has achieving these qualifications helped you?

Achieving these qualifications further strengthened my technical expertise, professional confidence, and credibility. I gained advanced, strategic-level knowledge that has enabled me to identify and manage complex risks, design and implement robust safety systems, and shape policies that foster a strong, proactive safety culture.

At the same time, they developed my specialist capabilities in sustainability, environmental compliance, pollution prevention, and resource efficiency—skills that are increasingly vital for meeting regulatory requirements, client expectations, and global sustainability targets.

This combined capability allows me to adopt a fully integrated approach to health, safety, and environmental management. I can embed HSE priorities into every stage of our operations—from early project planning through to execution and handover. This ensures that risk control, compliance, and environmental stewardship are built into the core of our business processes.

These qualifications have also enhanced my ability to make informed, evidence-based decisions, engage and influence stakeholders, and deliver long-term value that protects people, strengthens corporate reputation, and supports sustainable business growth.

In one sentence, please could you tell us: What was the best thing you learned through your NEBOSH studies?
I’ve learned to approach health, safety, and environmental management strategically, moving beyond compliance to foster a proactive culture that prevents harm, drives improvement, and adds real value to the business.

Clearly you enjoy learning as I understand you are now completing a Masters! Do you have any advice for other safety professionals that will help them balance work and study?
I found balancing the demands of study with a full-time leadership role required strong time management, discipline, and prioritisation.
It helped me to view study time as a non-negotiable commitment, scheduling it in my diary in realistic, manageable blocks. Breaking the syllabus down into smaller, achievable goals also helped maintain momentum and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Looking for opportunities to apply learning is also helpful. This will reinforce your understanding through real-world practice, whilst creating an immediate, tangible value for your organisation.

Finally, you should recognise that long-term success depends on sustainability. Prioritise rest, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and pace yourself as this will help you stay motivated, focused, and resilient. Professional growth is a marathon, not a sprint—so looking after your wellbeing is essential to achieving your learning goals.

You were appointed Corporate HSE Director of United Engineering Construction in June 2023. Can you tell us about the company and its health and safety ethos?
United Engineering Construction (UNEC) is one of the UAE’s most respected and established contracting companies, renowned for delivering landmark residential, commercial, hospitality, and infrastructure projects for some of the region’s most prestigious clients.
Since our inception, we have upheld an unwavering commitment to engineering excellence, earning recognition for our technical expertise, quality craftsmanship, timely project delivery, and the cultivation of long-term client partnerships built on trust and performance.

Our diverse portfolio showcases some of the most complex, large-scale, and high-profile developments in the region—projects that demand precision planning, innovative solutions, and the ability to perform under challenging conditions. This capability reflects our engineering strength and ability to integrate safety, sustainability, and efficiency into every stage of project execution.
At UNEC, health and safety are core to our identity. Our ethos is grounded in the belief that every incident is preventable and that safety is a shared responsibility. We prioritise proactive risk management, continuous workforce training, and transparent, two-way communication to ensure safety is embedded in every decision, process, and activity.

By going beyond regulatory compliance and aligning our systems with recognised international best practices, we protect our workforce, contractors, clients, and stakeholders—while enhancing project quality, operational efficiency, and delivery outcomes. This uncompromising approach not only safeguards people and assets but also strengthens our reputation as a contractor of choice for complex, high-value developments in the UAE and beyond.

What are your main responsibilities as the Corporate HSE Director?
As Corporate HSE Director at UNEC, my primary responsibility is to set the strategic vision and direction for health, safety, and environmental management across all projects, operations, and business units. I am accountable for developing, implementing, and continuously improving HSE policies, procedures, and management systems that fully comply with UAE legislation and align with recognised international best practices such as ISO 45001 and ISO 14001.

I lead, mentor, and empower a high-performing HSE team equipping them with the skills, tools, and resources to effectively identify hazards, manage risks, and influence safe behaviours at every level. I personally oversee incident investigations, audits, and site inspections, to ensure that root causes are identified, lessons are learned and shared across the organisation, and corrective actions are implemented promptly and effectively.

A critical aspect of my role is strategic stakeholder engagement. I work closely with clients, consultants, and regulatory authorities to maintain transparency, foster trust, and demonstrate UNEC’s unwavering commitment to health, safety, and environmental excellence. I also spearhead continuous improvement initiatives - from targeted training and competency development programmes to company-wide safety awareness campaigns and the adoption of innovative technologies that enhance monitoring, reporting, and control measures.

I am committed to ensuring that safety is not treated as a standalone function but is fully integrated into UNEC’s overarching business strategy and operational planning. I dedicate my time to mentoring and coaching others- empowering teams with the skills, confidence, and mindset to integrate safety into every decision they make.

Ultimately, my role is to ensure HSE priorities are embedded into every decision, process, and stage of our projects so that we protect people, safeguard the environment, ensure operational resilience, and reinforce UNEC’s position as a trusted leader in delivering safe, sustainable, and high-quality construction projects.

Having worked in health and safety for over 20 years, what do you think makes a good health and safety professional?
In my view, an effective health and safety professional blends technical expertise with strong interpersonal and leadership skills. Technical competence is essential to interpret legislation accurately, apply recognised best practices, analyse complex risks, and design robust control measures that are both effective and sustainable.

However, technical knowledge alone is not enough. The ability to communicate clearly, engage stakeholders, influence behaviour, and build trust across all levels of the organisation are equally vital to achieving meaningful and lasting safety outcomes.

A good HSE professional is proactive and solution-oriented—anticipating hazards before they escalate into incidents, and identifying practical, business-aligned solutions that protect people without unnecessarily hindering productivity or project goals. Integrity is non-negotiable; the best professionals consistently make decisions that prioritise the wellbeing of workers and the public, even when those decisions may be unpopular or present operational challenges.

They also demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth, staying ahead of evolving regulations, technological innovations, and industry trends. Adaptability is key—it is important to be able to adjust to diverse environments, cultures, and project complexities while maintaining consistent safety standards.

Ultimately, a truly effective health and safety professional inspires a culture where safety is not seen as a tick-box compliance exercise, but as a shared organisational value—one that protects people, enhances operational performance, and strengthens business reputation.

What advice would you give someone pursuing a health and safety career?
My advice to anyone pursuing a career in health and safety is to start by building a solid foundation of technical knowledge through recognised, accredited qualifications. It is also vital to develop strong communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills, because safety is as much about influencing people’s attitudes and behaviours as it is about applying rules and procedures.

Be proactive in seeking practical, hands-on experience in real work environments. Exposure to actual site operations, incident investigations, and risk assessments will give you the insight needed to translate theory into practical, workable solutions. Real-world experience also sharpens your problem-solving abilities and helps you navigate the balance between safety requirements and operational realities.

Stay curious and committed to continuous professional development, as legislation, technology, and industry best practice are constantly evolving. Engage with professional networks, attend industry events, and remain open to learning from a colleagues, mentors, and experience.

Above all, approach the role with integrity, resilience, and passion. Health and safety are fundamentally about protecting lives, preserving wellbeing, and creating workplaces where people can perform at their best. When you hold onto that sense of purpose, it will not only strengthen your effectiveness as a professional but also fuel your long-term career growth and fulfilment.

UNEC has become a NEBOSH Corporate Learning Partner, with accreditation to deliver the NEBOSH HSE Certificate in Managing Stress at Work to your own staff. What value will this add?
This achievement will create value on multiple levels. For me personally, it significantly enhances my professional credibility, broadens my training portfolio, and enables me to deliver a globally recognised qualification which also reflects UNEC’s specific culture, operational realities, and industry challenges.

It demonstrates UNEC’s commitment to employee wellbeing and mental health, areas that are increasingly recognised as integral to safety performance and business sustainability. This will strengthen our reputation with clients, consultants, and regulatory bodies, positioning us as a forward-thinking, responsible employer that invests in both the professional and personal resilience of its workforce.
Our employees can access internationally respected, accredited training without having to leave their workplace. The course gives them practical tools and strategies to recognise and manage stress, build resilience, and maintain mental and emotional wellbeing. This, in turn, contributes to a safer, healthier, and more engaged workforce- reducing absenteeism, improving productivity, and fostering a supportive, positive working environment.