The Health and Safety industry has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past decade, and few people have seen it evolve quite like George Wilson, our Sales Director. Starting as an Apprentice in 2014 (when behavioural safety was the hot topic), he’s climbed the ranks to become a leader of Principal People, witnessing first-hand how the industry has shifted. 

From operational teams taking on more responsibility to the rise of AI-driven safety technology, the landscape is unrecognisable from where it was ten years ago. But with progress comes new challenges like recruitment gaps, succession planning, and a growing need for strategic leadership. 

After all that has gone on over the last decade, we asked George what his thoughts are looking back, and his predictions for the future. 

So, what’s next for Health and Safety?

George’s journey mirrors the dramatic evolution within the Health and Safety industry over the past decade. From an Apprentice to Director, he has seen all aspects of the business and the shift in Health and Safety. 

A common theme of the profession back in 2014. While it’s still a focus, the biggest shift George witnessed is operational teams taking greater responsibility for Health and Safety.

This transformation hasn’t just reshaped company cultures, it’s become more of a white-collar profession. There has been comments from industry-leading organisations that Health and Safety has become more of a white-collar industry, creating opportunities for professionals to step into strategic roles.

Challenges for the next 5 years

As the industry has evolved, so too have the challenges. There have been some pivotal recruitment challenges for the industry

Looking ahead, there will be a growing focus on technology. Specifically around making reporting easier and more efficient, as well as smarter preventative tools such as AI-enabled CCTV cameras. These cameras can predict if someone is about to break a rule or act unsafely, alerting managers or safety professionals in real-time. Innovations like this could revolutionise the way we approach risk management and increase the strategic element of the role.

Advice for the future: Invest in succession planning

One pressing issue is the need for better succession planning in the industry. Unfortunately, we still don’t see many young people entering Health and Safety directly out of school, college, or university and it’s often a second career for most. This creates a gap for emerging professionals and an aging workforce that stunts career development for those on a progression path.

To move forward, think about creating a succession plan, not just for yourself but for your team. Embrace the interest and intrigue these newcomers have for the industry and look into how that can directly benefit your current team. Fresh perspectives? Different life experiences? There can be many positives to growing your team with graduate job seekers. 

A final thought

The Health and Safety industry is at a significant point, with technology driving change and a new generation of talent waiting to be nurtured. These insights remind us that with the right planning and openness to innovation, the future of safety can be both dynamic and impactful.

For more advice or support, reach out to us today. As George says,