Case Studies

Thomas, tell me about your time in the British Army.

I spent 10 years in the British Army, serving with the Royal Military Police. Doing a variety of jobs from Policing Duties to Weapons Intelligence and a variety of training roles. The common theme especially through the training roles was managing health and safety and risk assessing everything from the classroom to live firing.

About 24 months before I left, I was recommended by a family friend to look at IOSH and NEBOSH courses and consider a potential career in health and safety. I signed up to the NEBOSH National General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety through Pheonix Health and Safety, opting for the distance learning package.

I spent the next 12 months slowly working my way through it alongside my day job as a Training Sergeant, during this time I was selected for deployment to The Falklands as the Police Station Manager.
After returning from the Falklands, I made the decision to leave the British Army and focus on life at home with my partner.

Can you tell me about your current role?

I am currently the Safety, Health, Environment and Quality (SHEQ) Officer for Total Protective Solutions 360, one of the UK’s leading installers of resin and polished concrete flooring. I oversee the health, safety, environmental and quality management systems for the South Wales and Tamworth flooring divisions.

My key responsibilities include producing and reviewing risk assessments and Risk Assessment Method Statement (RAMS), conducting internal audits, leading Non-Conformance Report (NCR) investigations, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and company standards. I work closely with operational teams to promote a positive safety culture and drive continuous improvement across projects.

TPS360 also operates Project Solutions, Facilities and Cleaning divisions, and as my role develops, I will be providing SHEQ support across those areas as well, broadening my scope and responsibility within the business.

How have NEBOSH qualifications helped you within your role?

The knowledge I gained from completing the NEBOSH General Certificate has been invaluable in my role. It gave me a strong foundation in health and safety legislation, risk assessment methodology, and practical control measures.

In my first week, I was reviewing risk assessments within a set of RAMS, and having a clear understanding of the risk assessment process meant I could confidently assess whether hazards had been properly identified, risks appropriately evaluated, and controls effectively implemented. It allowed me to add value immediately rather than just observing.

Overall, NEBOSH has given me both the technical knowledge and the confidence to challenge, improve, and support safe systems of work across the business.

What is the best piece of advice you have been given throughout your career in the forces?

The best piece of advice I was given in the forces was to own your mistakes. If you make an error, admit it early, take responsibility, and bring it to your team. Most issues can be resolved quickly when everyone is aware and working together. Trying to hide or fix mistakes on your own often makes the situation worse.

That advice taught me accountability, transparency, and the importance of teamwork. It reinforced that strong teams are built on trust, and that taking ownership earns respect far more than trying to protect your ego.

Can you provide some advice for those leaving the forces and transitioning into a new career?

The initial transition out of the forces can be challenging. You’re adjusting to a completely different workplace culture, new expectations, and often a different pace of life. It takes time to find your feet, and that’s completely normal.

It’s also important to accept that your first job after leaving may not be the right long-term fit, and that’s okay. Don’t be afraid to move on if a role doesn’t align with your values, ambitions, or wellbeing. The transition is a journey, not a single step.

It took me around two and a half years to secure my role at TPS360, and I almost didn’t apply because the commute was slightly longer than I’d ideally wanted. Looking back, that would have been a mistake. I’m far happier, feel genuinely valued, and have clear scope to progress.

My main advice is, be patient, back yourself, don’t settle too quickly absolutely use organisations like the Forces Transition Group and the Forces Employment Charity, their help is invaluable.