Case Studies

In 2013 you moved to Dubai, initially working as a security officer. Can you tell us about this and how this led you to your career in health and safety?
I moved to Dubai from a picturesque village nestled in the hills of Himachal Pradesh, India. Most people from my hometown cherish the simple, fulfilling life there and rarely feel the need to move away. I love where I am from, but I was also keen to experience new things, and decided to move to Dubai because of the opportunities it offered me.

My first job here was with a reputable organisation that hired me as a security officer. My duties included helping to ensure the safety and security of both workers and property. This ignited my deep commitment to advocate for and improve health and safety standards in the workplace. 

While working as a security officer, I completed my NEBOSH International General Certificate and proactively sought opportunities to build my health and safety experience. This effort was recognised, and I was promoted to Safety and Security Supervisor.

Why did you choose the NEBOSH International General Certificate (IGC)?
I wanted to show my commitment to the health and safety aspect of my job. When I researched my options, I found that the IGC was the perfect choice for me because of its global recognition and excellent syllabus and study pattern.

Did you enjoy studying the NEBOSH International General Certificate?
Yes, it was a wonderful experience that significantly propelled me towards my career goals. The qualification's well-developed syllabus and practitioner-focused learning outcomes provided me with a comprehensive understanding of health and safety.

Through extensive studies I learned how to develop management systems, identify hazards, prepare risk assessments, and enhance my working skills. I still remember the details of all the learning outcomes, which reflects how joyfully I engaged with the course.

Shortly after achieving this qualification, you changed roles. Did having the IGC help you secure your new position?
Absolutely. After completing my NEBOSH IGC, I was offered a health and safety position by GCC Contracting Company. My role allowed me to apply the knowledge and skills I had gained, and I was encouraged to be innovative. What I had learned from my IGC studies helped me develop work procedures that aligned with business strategies. I met experienced colleagues who inspired and encouraged my continuous professional development. This role proved to be a profoundly enriching experience, and I am grateful to NEBOSH because my IGC played a part in securing this opportunity.

Can you tell us about your current role as a Senior Health, Safety and Environment Advisor with GCC Contracting Company?
GCC Contracting Company specialises in construction and renovation. As a senior health, safety and environment adviser, I help to develop and implement plans and policies, monitor compliance, manage risk, promote health and safety best practice, establish health and safety standards and targets and drive continuous improvement. My key responsibilities include:

• Preparing project HSE plans, task/contractor-specific safety and health plans, project-specific mitigation plans, safety and health awareness training and regulatory reports.
• Ensuring that safety requirements that may affect a project’s design, schedule, and cost are considered throughout the project.
• Supporting colleagues and contractors so that project-specific safety and health requirements are planned and executed well.
• Conducting safety assessments and inspections to monitor compliance with safety and health requirements, including contractual commitments, laws and regulations, and a project’s specific HSE plan.
• Supporting the development and implementation of GCC’s safety management system.

In 2023, you passed the NEBOSH International Diploma in Occupational Safety and Health?

• Why were you attracted to this qualification in particular? - I believe that learning and exploring new things should never end as this is how we evolve and grow. I wanted to deepen my health and safety knowledge and expertise and felt that pursuing the NEBOSH International Diploma in Occupational Safety and Health would deliver this for me and it didn’t disappoint.
• What did you gain from studying at this level? -It has significantly strengthened my professional career in health and safety. I acquired extensive knowledge and a deep understanding of the advanced health and safety skills required for senior-level management, such as analysis, assessment, and research. Additionally, I have mastered essential concepts like risk reduction, retention, and transfer. This qualification has also equipped me with the expertise to develop and implement effective health and safety management systems. Undoubtedly, the NEBOSH Diploma has instilled in me a high level of confidence and professional strength, allowing me to manage health and safety with excellence.

What’s next for you in terms of your professional development?
As a dedicated health and safety professional, I am eager to further expand my expertise by pursuing the NEBOSH International Diploma in Environmental Management. This qualification will strengthen my understanding of environmental management and sustainability.

I also want to obtain the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) designation, which will enhance my skills and knowledge, ensuring I remain at the forefront of the industry.
My commitment to continuous learning and professional growth also drives me to work towards Chartered Member status of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health. This would not only validate my expertise but would connect me with a global network of professionals dedicated to excellence in health and safety.

The drivers for all these goals are to elevate my career, contribute more significantly to HSE, and uphold the highest professional standards.

What do you enjoy most about being a health and safety professional?
I cannot imagine pursuing a career in any field other than health and safety. This profession is my passion. I get immense satisfaction from educating people and raising awareness about the importance of safeguarding our employees and society. My passion lies in creating safe and secure working environments so that everyone returns home unharmed at the end of the day. The ability to make a tangible difference in the lives of others through my work is deeply fulfilling, and I am committed to continuously advancing my health and safety expertise.

What would your advice be to anyone who aspires to make health and safety their career?
Health and safety is more than just a way to earn a living. It can be a rewarding and fulfilling career and the profession is full of passionate talent who have dedicated themselves to protecting people. Every initiative you take could potentially save hundreds of lives. If a workplace is accident free, the wellbeing and future of every worker has been safeguarded. This is my motivation and there is no bigger reward than achieving this for your colleagues.

For anyone aspiring to excel in this field, I highly recommend pursuing NEBOSH qualifications. NEBOSH offers a unique and comprehensive syllabus, coupled with well-defined procedures for its delivery. The depth of knowledge and the skills you acquire through these courses are unparalleled. By fully engaging with the material, you will significantly enhance your professional capabilities, making you a more effective and knowledgeable health and safety practitioner