Case Studies

Please tell me how your career in health and safety began. Why did you choose this career path? What attracted you to health and safety?

From my childhood onwards, my ambition was to become a doctor and to save people's lives.

I happened to visit one of my uncle’s houses, who was a safety professional at one of the major construction companies in the Middle East. While talking to him regarding my interest in serving people, he discussed how he saves multiple lives at his site by ensuring health and safety standards are up to a high standard. This was an eye-opener for me. I still remember his words stating, “A doctor can save one life at a time, whereas a safety professional can save hundreds of lives at a time” by ensuring health and safety standards at the organisation, thus preventing an accident from occurring.

Inspired by his words, I started researching about the different roles. I decided to join a B-Tech in Safety and Fire Engineering (4-year course) from Toc H Institute of Science and Technology, Ernakulam. During my studies I came to know about how important the role of a safety personnel is at the workplace. After Completion of my course (including theoretical and hands-on health and safety training), I was placed at one of the best organisations to work with in India; Tata Consulting Engineers Limited.

What made you choose NEBOSH qualifications?

Working in a reputed organisation like Tata Consulting Engineers Ltd. which is involved in high-risk sectors such as infrastructure, energy, and industrial projects, it was imperative to have a strong and internationally accepted qualification that strengthened my technical knowledge and gave confidence to clients and stakeholders.

As I progressed in my role and took on more strategic responsibilities, I realised the need for an advanced qualification that delves deeper into complex risk management, leadership in health and safety, and international legislation. That's where the NEBOSH Level 6 International Diploma for Occupational Health and Safety Management Professionals became crucial. The Diploma not only enhanced my analytical and problem-solving capabilities but also helped me design and implement effective safety management systems tailored to diverse and complex projects that TCE handles (like the bullet train project in which I am currently working).

Furthermore, NEBOSH qualifications align perfectly with the vision of TCE, which emphasises safety, quality, and sustainability. By obtaining the Diploma, I can contribute to strengthening our safety culture, reducing incidents, and ensuring the wellbeing of employees and contractors on-site.

Can you tell me a bit about the health and safety culture in India?

Health and safety culture in India has significantly improved over the past decade and continues to evolve rapidly, especially with the expansion of industrial, construction, and infrastructure sectors. Many organisations now adopt a structured and systematic approach to health and safety, demonstrating a serious commitment to these aspects.

In my view, India should focus on fostering a proactive and preventative safety culture, embracing technology-driven safety solutions, and reinforcing legal enforcement frameworks. Companies like Tata Consulting Engineers Ltd, L&T Construction, and others are playing a pivotal role in driving this transformation and setting industry benchmarks for others to follow.

How old were you when you started your career in health and safety?

After completing my B-tech in safety and Fire Engineering, I was recruited to Tata Consulting Engineers Ltd. via a campus placement and started my career in safety at the age of 22. It’s been four years, and I am still working in the safety profession with the same enthusiasm with which I joined the organisation.

What do you enjoy most about working in health and safety?

Working in health and safety gives me an opportunity to create a meaningful impact on people’s lives every day. My role allows me to ensure that employees, workers and stakeholders return home safely, which gives me a deep sense of satisfaction and purpose.

I also enjoy the dynamic nature of the job – no two days are the same. I get to interact with different departments, visit various project sites, and engage with teams to identify potential hazards and implement practical solutions.

As a young health and safety professional, how do you think the health and safety industry can encourage more young people to begin their career in health and safety at a younger age?

As an experienced safety professional, I believe the industry can encourage more young people to pursue a career in health and safety by raising awareness about its importance and impact.

Introducing safety as a career option through educational institutions, internships, and awareness campaigns can inspire young minds. Showcasing real-life success stories, mentorship programmes, and professional growth opportunities within safety roles can motivate them to see this as a rewarding career.