Case Studies

Was it always your plan to pursue a career in health and safety?
Initially, no. When I was choosing what to study at university, my plan was to become a marine engineer, and the choices I made reflected that goal. I studied Mechanical Engineering (B-Tech) in Kerala, India, and dreamed of joining the shipping industry. However, my final year coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, which changed everything. The marine sector was hit hard, and opportunities disappeared. That’s when I discovered health and safety—and how achieving NEBOSH qualifications could support my success in this profession. What began as a plan B has become my true calling. I quickly realised that protecting people, not just machines, would give me a deeper sense of purpose and satisfaction than my original plan.

Why did you choose the NEBOSH International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety in 2021?
During the pandemic, my friends and I were determined to use our time productively during the enforced career gap. One of our professors recommended NEBOSH as a globally respected qualification that could open new doors. I chose the NEBOSH International General Certificate because it was internationally recognised, covered fundamental principles relevant across all industries, and would help me secure opportunities in the safety profession.

Did you enjoy your studies?

Absolutely. Although the course delivery and assessment were online due to COVID-19, it was a rewarding experience. Coming from a mechanical background, I found the technical aspects more familiar—but the real value came from the concepts that were new to me, such as safety culture, human behaviour, and ethical responsibility. I was particularly inspired by our tutors, who shared real-life experiences that made the course both practical and motivating.

How did passing this qualification help you?

It was a true career launcher. Within a few months of completing the NEBOSH International General Certificate, I secured my first role as a Safety Officer on a power plant project in Gujarat, India. I was selected for the role because I held the NEBOSH International General Certificate and had a mechanical engineering background. At the time, companies were actively seeking safety professionals with NEBOSH qualifications—even those with limited experience. My NEBOSH certificate gave me both the confidence and the credibility to stand out as a capable and competent entry-level candidate.

You joined Fahad S Al-Tamimi & Partners Company in 2022 and moved from India to Saudi Arabia. Can you tell us:

• How you secured this opportunity?

After gaining three months of experience in India, I secured a job offer from Fahad S. Al Tamimi & Partners, based in Saudi Arabia. Once again, my NEBOSH International General Certificate and B-Tech credentials were key factors in being considered for this role. I successfully passed the organisation’s internal screening and was later transferred to Ma’aden Phosphate Company as a contractor Safety Officer after clearing its interview process.

• About the company and its approach to health and safety?

Fahad S. Al Tamimi Company is an equipment rental and operations support provider that works with major clients such as Ma’aden and SABIC. The company places a strong emphasis on health and safety, ensuring its teams are fully aligned with client safety expectations. Since joining, I’ve had the opportunity to work on high-risk operations, heavy equipment mobilisation, shutdowns, and plant-level safety planning—always with a focus on continuous improvement.

Why did you choose the NEBOSH Level 6 International Diploma for Occupational Health and Safety Management Professionals with NEBOSH Gold Learning Partner, Green World Group?
After gaining field experience, I realised I needed deeper knowledge to make strategic decisions and lead safety initiatives effectively. The NEBOSH Diploma provided the advanced tools I was looking for—such as root cause analysis, management systems auditing, and a deeper understanding of organisational culture. I wanted to grow beyond compliance and contribute to proactive safety leadership, and the Diploma was the perfect next step.

How has your NEBOSH Diploma study helped you?
It changed everything. As I progressed through each unit, both my capability and confidence grew. I felt better equipped for every aspect of my role—whether conducting risk assessments and incident investigations, contributing to strategic planning, or communicating with senior stakeholders. My NEBOSH Diploma has helped me to:

• Lead shutdowns with zero LTIs
• Develop Safe Work Instructions (SWIs) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Build safety culture within teams
• Contribute to client EHSS plans
• Reduce incident rates in our project to zero between 2022–2025
• Gain the mindset of a safety leader—not just a safety officer

In 2023, you were promoted. Can you tell us about your current role and responsibilities?
I was promoted to HSE Supervisor – Operations after a senior colleague exited the organisation unexpectedly. By that time, I had completed Unit ID1 of the NEBOSH Diploma and was excelling in my previous role. I’m really enjoying the new responsibilities, which include:

• Supervising daily safety operations at Ma’aden Phosphate
• Planning and executing plant shutdowns
• Developing safety procedures and Safe Work Instructions (SWIs) for heavy mobile equipment
• Investigating incidents and conducting root cause analysis
• Mentoring junior safety officers
• Collaborating with Ma’aden’s EHSS and operations departments to ensure our full compliance and operational support

What are your future ambitions?
I would like to move into a regional or senior HSE leadership role (eg HSE Manager or HSE Lead) for a major EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contractor or client such as Ma’aden, Aramco, or ADNOC.

I’m currently working toward GradIOSH membership and plan to pursue ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 Lead Auditor certifications this year. Ultimately, I hope to contribute to shaping HSE culture at an organisational level, while continuing to inspire others entering the profession.

What do you enjoy about being part of the health and safety profession?
It gives me purpose. I love knowing that the work I do each day directly helps people return home safely to their families. It’s a role rooted in responsibility, leadership, and service—and I take great pride in that.

What advice would you give someone pursuing a health and safety career?
Start with a strong foundation—like the NEBOSH International General Certificate—and stay curious. Don’t just aim for certificates; aim for understanding. Be proactive, build field experience, and stay ethical. This profession isn’t just about compliance—it’s about care, commitment, and courage.