How to start a safety consulting business

The role of a safety consultant is both challenging and rewarding, offering the unique opportunity to make a significant impact on workplace safety and employee well-being. As industries continue to evolve and workplace hazards become more complex, the demand for qualified safety consultants has never been higher. This guide aims to highlight the steps toward becoming a safety consultant, equipping aspiring professionals with the knowledge on how to start a safety consulting business.

What is a safety consultant?

A safety consultant, or a health and safety consultant, is a professional tasked with the important job of ensuring that businesses adhere to safety standards and regulations, thereby safeguarding the well-being of employees. Their work involves conducting thorough evaluations of work environments, identifying potential hazards, and devising strategies to mitigate risks.

Health and safety consultants often develop and implement comprehensive safety programs, conduct training sessions to educate employees on safety practices, and stay abreast of the latest safety regulations to ensure compliance. Their expertise not only helps in creating a safer work environment but also aids businesses in avoiding costly legal repercussions associated with workplace accidents.

Industries that hire safety consultants

There is a demand for safety consultants across multiple industries, each with its unique set of safety challenges and risks.

1. Construction

The construction industry, with its heavy machinery and challenging work environment, heavily relies on the expertise of safety consultants. By conducting site evaluations and implementing safety protocols, safety consultants help construction projects adhere to rigorous safety standards, thereby preventing accidents and ensuring every worker returns home safely at the end of the day.

2. Manufacturing

Manufacturing health and safety consultants contribute by implementing robust safety protocols and training programs. By educating both supervisors and employees about compliance with safety standards and ensuring the use of appropriate protective equipment, they help in creating a safer manufacturing environment, effectively reducing the risk of workplace accidents.

3. Healthcare

Despite the inherently sterile and controlled environment of healthcare facilities, the risk of workplace incidents remains a concern. Health and safety consultants play an important role in these settings, conducting regular assessments and implementing preventive measures to safeguard the well-being of medical professionals. Their expertise helps to maintain a safe environment, ensuring that healthcare workers can focus on providing care without compromising their own safety.

4. Transportation

Safety consultants who work in the transportation sector focus on providing comprehensive road safety training tailored to the specific needs of drivers, whether they’re behind the wheel of a truck, bus, or train. This specialized training ensures that drivers are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to safely conduct their vehicles, reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing overall safety on the roads.

5. Oil and gas

Safety consultants are hired in the oil and gas sector to maintain a safe working environment amid the challenging conditions of drilling and well servicing. They focus on training workers and ensuring all operations adhere to established safety regulations.

6. Warehouse and storage

In this industry, health and safety consultants are tasked with establishing safety practices among workers, such as the importance of maintaining clear aisles and clutter-free spaces to prevent workplace incidents. Additionally, they provide specialized training for the operation of machinery, such as forklifts and order pickers, ensuring that daily operations are carried out safely and efficiently.

How to become a safety consultant

If you’re looking to establish a career as a safety consultant, here are a few steps to help you along the way:

1. Getting an education

Although not a mandatory requirement, getting a bachelor’s degree is seen as a stepping stone towards a successful career as a health and safety consultant. Programs such as occupational safety, health, environmental science, or engineering offer a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. For those looking to gain more knowledge and expertise, a master’s degree can open doors to advanced positions and specializations within the health and safety consulting industry.

2. Get certified

Certifications not only enhance your resume but also establish yourself as a trusted health and safety consultant. Companies often look for certifications as a benchmark for hiring, as they demonstrate an in-depth understanding of safety protocols and the ability to foresee and mitigate risks. Whether you’re aiming for the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) designation or another recognized credential, the certification process usually involves rigorous exams and, in some cases, meeting experience requirements.

3. Gaining hands-on experience

Gaining practical work experience is as important as earning your degree or certification. Securing internships or entry-level positions in fields like construction offers a firsthand look at the challenges of maintaining workplace safety. You’ll get to apply your academic knowledge to real-world situations, such as conducting risk assessments or implementing safety protocols. This exposure will push you out of your comfort zone, and equip you with the problem-solving skills and adaptability required to thrive as a safety consultant.

4. Polishing your resume

A compelling resume showcases your educational background, certifications, relevant work experience, and the skills that set you apart in the field of safety consultancy. Ensure your resume highlights your expertise in identifying safety risks, developing safety guidelines, and delivering employee training. Also worth showcasing in your resume is your ability to communicate effectively, solve problems, and stay updated on safety regulations. Tailor your resume to emphasize your experiences most relevant to safety consultancy, making it clear why you’re the ideal candidate for ensuring workplace safety.

5. Hunt for jobs

With your resume polished and ready, the next step in your journey to becoming a health and safety consultant is to dive into the job market. Utilize online job portals, industry-specific websites, and professional networks like LinkedIn to discover openings. Tailor your application to each role, emphasizing how your unique blend of education, experience, and skills makes you the ideal candidate for the position.

Remember, persistence is key. Each application is a step closer to landing a role where you can contribute meaningfully to workplace safety.

Launch your safety consulting career with confidence

As you take on the role of a safety consultant contributing to safer workplaces across different industries, it’s important to also consider the safety of your own business. BizInsure simplifies the process of finding safety consultant insurance, offering multiple quotes in just minutes and enabling you to compare options without the hassle of traditional insurance shopping.

Visit BizInsure for quotes on Professional Liability, General Liability and more, and secure your peace of mind today.