IOSH podcast

In this thought-provoking discussion, IOSH's Dr Chris Davis explores the rapidly evolving skills landscape of the OSH profession: generational skills gaps, the growing importance of a well-rounded skill set combining technical expertise with personal and soft skills and the transformative role of technology to meet the complex demands of modern workplaces. The conversation reinforces a powerful message: in a field as dynamic as OSH, continuous learning and adaptability are not optional – they're essential.

Kellie Williams hosts IOSH future leaders Danielle Thorburn and Jessica Edwards. Danielle, with a background in veterinary science, transitioned into bio safety management at the Crick Institute, where she stayed for nine years. Jessica, initially in health and safety by chance, emphasises the importance of soft skills such as listening and empathy. For the next half an hour, listen to them discuss the rewarding yet challenging aspects of their careers, including navigating legal terminology and adapting to new roles, while highlighting the value of qualifications, and the importance of mentorship and continuous learning. Danielle aims to increase women's involvement in bio safety, while Jessica aspires to achieve Fellowship. Enjoy!

In the second episode of this new series on thought leadership, IOSH's Dr Chris Davis discusses the concept of worker engagement, its relationship with burnout, and the importance of fostering a positive work environment. He explores the theoretical background of engagement, its organisational benefits, and the challenges of measuring it, especially in hybrid work settings. The conversation emphasises the role of leadership and job design in enhancing engagement and the need for sustainable interventions to maintain worker motivation and productivity, with some key takeaways for OSH professionals.

In the final part of our interview, new IOSH president Kelly Nicoll explains why she's passionate about telling the story of the true value of OSH and why the profession makes for an excellent career choice.

In part 1 of our interview, new IOSH president Kelly Nicoll sits down with us to discuss why her presidential year will be deeply influenced by her personal experiences, which have shaped her priorities for the OSH profession.

In this episode, Dr Chris Davis discusses the multifaceted concept of workplace wellbeing, emphasising its importance in creating a supportive work environment. He explores the definition of wellbeing, the significance of psychosocial risks, insights from the OECD forum, challenges in measuring wellbeing, and the ethical considerations surrounding surveillance. The conversation also touches on the impact of hybrid working, future trends in workplace wellbeing, and the necessity for organisations to prioritise employee wellbeing to attract and retain talent.TakeawaysWellbeing encompasses all aspects of life, not just work.Safety and health are core components of wellbeing.Psychosocial risks are crucial to address in the workplace.The OECD forum highlighted major trends affecting wellbeing.Measuring wellbeing is challenging but essential for progress.Surveillance can be beneficial but raises ethical concerns.Hybrid working has changed perceptions of wellbeing.Younger workers demand more from their employers regarding wellbeing.Wellbeing should be viewed as a fundamental right.Organisational culture plays a key role in employee wellbeing.

In this episode of the IOSH Podcast, two members of the IOSH Future Leaders Steering Group, Debbie Linzell and Abhijith Jose, discuss their career transitions into occupational health and safety.Debbie, originally a dancer, shifted to OSH after an injury and now holds a NEBOSH certificate and is pursuing a Level 7 apprenticeship. Abhijith, a mechanical engineer, transitioned to OSH through safety training and now works as a full-time trainer.Both emphasise the importance of qualifications and certification, and highlight the value of networking, particularly through LinkedIn and IOSH mentoring. They also discuss the diverse backgrounds entering OSH and the need to change perceptions of the profession. 

What does it mean to be socially sustainable in the the world of OSH?  What role do OSH professionals play when creating a work culture where social sustainability is at its core?  Hear from Kelly Nicoll, IOSH President-Elect, and Richard Bate, IOSH Vice President on their experiences around social sustainability.

Undoubtedly, adapting to climate change is becoming an increasingly critical factor within the realm of occupational safety and health (OSH). Inevitably, as our environment undergoes changes, it will have consequences for the safety and health of workers, which will result in new hazards or increased risks. Ruth Wilkinson, head of policy and public affairs at IOSH, and Mike Whiting, certification and compliance engineer at Newmac Ltd, look at the impact of climate change on OSH and provide insights on what we must consider at present to ensure the safety of our workers.

Former chief inspector Kevin Myers and staunch campaigner Janet Newsham debate the usefulness of the Health and Safety at Work Act as it reaches its 50th anniversary. Reflecting on the impact this legislation has had, we question its relevance and impact on today’s constantly evolving work environment.