Learning to Prevent, not React: A Health and Safety Journey

Case Study: Salim Yousuf Al Habsi


Salim Yousuf Al Habsi is an HSE Manager at Al Madina Logistics, based in Oman. In this interview, Salim shares insights into the profession and offers advice on how to balance work and study.

When did you decide you wanted to work in health and safety and how did you secure your first opportunity in the profession?

I became interested in health and safety early in my career as I wanted a role where I could make a real difference. Health and safety offered this opportunity, as it focuses on protecting people and preventing incidents. I secured my first role by working in a related field, learning on the job, and building my knowledge through training.

You passed your first NEBOSH qualification, the NEBOSH International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety, in 2020.

  • Why did you choose it? I chose the NEBOSH International General Certificate because it is well recognised and provides a strong foundation in health and safety.
  • How did achieving this qualification help your career? It helped me develop a better understanding of risk and increased my confidence at work. It also opened new career opportunities and enhanced my credibility.

In 2022 you completed the NEBOSH HSE Certificate in Process Safety Management. Can you tell us why you chose this qualification and what benefits you gained from this success?

I chose this qualification because I work in logistics and process safety is critical to our operations due to the clients we serve. I wanted to develop a better understanding of major risks and how to control them. Completing this qualification improved my knowledge which has helped me contribute more effectively to my company and our clients.

In one sentence, what has been the best thing you have learned through your NEBOSH studies?
The key thing I learnt from my NEBOSH studies is that safety is about preventing incidents before they happen, not reacting after the event.

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?

Balancing work and study is not easy, but it is possible with good planning. I set a clear schedule and study regularly, even if only for a short time. Staying consistent and focused on the goal makes a big difference.

 

You have worked for Al Madina Logistics in Oman for 2 years. Can you tell us about the company and its health and safety ethos?

Al Madina Logistics Services is a transport and logistics company offering customised, end-to-end supply chain solutions to meet the requirements of specific industry sectors in Oman. The company serves clients across a wide range of industries, including oil and gas, food and cold chain, automotive, defence, and retail.

Al Madina handles pipe and chemical loads and manages warehouse operations for storage and distribution, including cold storage for temperature-sensitive goods. The business also operates dry ports.

The company has a strong focus on safety, recognising that it is key to delivering sustainable logistics and supply chain services. Al Madina has achieved key certifications, including ISO 45001 for health and safety management systems and ISO 14001 for environmental management. Health and safety is embedded in the organisation’s daily operations, particularly in managing road risk, driver safety, and the safe handling of materials.

Please can you tell us about your role as Health, Safety and Environment Manager with the company?

As an HSE Manager, I am responsible for ensuring safe operations across all activities. This includes monitoring safety performance, carrying out inspections and investigations, and delivering training. I also ensure compliance with company and client requirements and actively promote a positive safety culture.

In your opinion what qualities do you believe a health and safety professional needs to be successful?

A successful health and safety professional should have strong communication skills and excellent attention to detail. They should be able to influence others and solve problems effectively.

Safety is not only about rules and procedures; it is about people, and building trust with workers is key to improving safety performance.
Continuous learning is also very important, as health and safety is always evolving, so it is vital to keep up to date.

What do you enjoy most about being a health and safety professional?

I enjoy knowing that my work helps protect people and prevent harm. It gives me a strong sense of purpose and responsibility.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to build their career in health and safety?

My advice is to start with a strong qualification such as NEBOSH and to gain practical experience alongside it. Learn from others, be patient with your progress, and always continue to build your knowledge.