Safety And Risk Success
The Safety and Risk Success Podcast is about clear thinking under uncertainty — especially where safety, risk, and leadership intersect. Hosted by Christian Harris, the podcast helps leaders and decision-makers move beyond tick-box safety and surface-level metrics, so they can see risk more clearly, make better decisions, and avoid false confidence. The core belief is simple: better safety isn’t just about compliance — it’s a driver of stronger business performance. When risk is understood properly, organisations protect people more effectively and perform better over time. Each episode features thoughtful conversations with leaders, practitioners, and experts, exploring what really improves safety, resilience, and organisational success in complex, high-risk environments. Christian’s perspective is grounded in specialist work around slip risk and accident prevention, including his best-selling book Prevent Slip Accidents With Slipology. New episodes released weekly each Friday.
info_outline
Make 2026 the Safest Year Yet
04/10/2026
Make 2026 the Safest Year Yet
There’s a hard truth many of us don’t like to admit we’re incredibly busy in safety, yet not always as effective as we could be. This conversation is the panel session from an online event I co-hosted, bringing together some sharp minds in the field including Louise, Carla and Davy, where we challenged what really moves the needle in safety and risk. Not more paperwork, not more audits for the sake of it but sharper thinking, better conversations, and a relentless focus on what actually works. If 2026 is going to be your safest year yet, it starts with questioning some uncomfortable habits and getting back to what truly matters. Highlights: Risk assessments without action: paperwork over performance Data without follow-up: insight lost, no improvement Manual handling myths: outdated training still widespread Busy but ineffective: activity not equal to impact Speak to people: real understanding starts on the ground Slow down to speed up: reduce reactive overload Leadership language gap: align with boardroom priorities Safety role shift: generalist thinking over specialist silos Resources and actions: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Louise on LinkedIn: Connect with Carla on LinkedIn: Connect with Davy on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/40783770
info_outline
Why Safety Systems Fail to Change Behavior, With Eduardo Blanco-Muñoz
04/03/2026
Why Safety Systems Fail to Change Behavior, With Eduardo Blanco-Muñoz
There’s a question that sits right at the heart of safety performance, and it’s one that frustrates a lot of us. Why do well-designed, technically sound safety systems still fail to change behaviour in the real world? I sat down with Eduardo Blanco-Muñoz to unpack this properly, and what followed was a fascinating exploration into perception, bias, culture, and the uncomfortable truth that people don’t behave the way our systems expect them to. This is a conversation that challenges the traditional, rule-based mindset and opens the door to a more human, more realistic way of thinking about safety. Highlights: Why systems fail: Humans don’t behave as rational models expect Perception limits: We miss more risk than we realise Overconfidence bias: People overestimate their ability to stay safe Culture link: Values and beliefs drive behaviour at every level Leadership impact: Behaviour matters more than policies or posters Measurement traps: Focusing on KPIs can distort real safety progress From control to influence: Move beyond command and control approaches Practical tools: Turning theory into actionable safety strategies Resources and actions: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Eduardo on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/40708325
info_outline
Why Is Workplace Noise Still Poorly Managed?
03/27/2026
Why Is Workplace Noise Still Poorly Managed?
Workplace noise is one of those risks that quietly chips away at people over time, often unnoticed until it’s too late. Yet despite nearly two decades of regulation, it’s still being misunderstood, underestimated, and poorly managed in far too many Organisations. This episode, taken from a Safety Roundtable session, features Gill Cussons sharing practical insights on why noise risk still isn’t being handled well and what we should be doing differently. What really stood out is how often we confuse “not sounding that bad” with “not being harmful” and how everyday habits, both inside and outside of work, are compounding the issue. Highlights: Noise risk underestimated: long-term exposure often ignored Hearing aids misconception: not a fix for damage Compliance mindset problem: action stops after assessment Exposure matters most: not just loudest source Everyday noise impact: cumulative across work and life Overprotection risk: reduces awareness and compliance Poor implementation gap: reports without real change Start with basics: fix sources before relying on PPE Resources and actions: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Gill on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/40628235
info_outline
Ensuring Trust in the Age of Data and AI, With James Robson
03/20/2026
Ensuring Trust in the Age of Data and AI, With James Robson
Trust with data is becoming one of the defining challenges for modern leadership. We hand over personal information every day, often without a second thought, yet expectations around how that data is handled have never been higher. My conversation with James Robson explores what happens when data protection, AI, politics and public confidence all collide. James brings a rare perspective from working across research, governance and political environments, and shares why trust is no longer just a compliance issue but something that directly shapes reputation, decision making and long-term business resilience. We also get into where many Organisations are getting caught out with AI adoption, why transparency matters more than ever, and how leaders can avoid creating unnecessary risk while still making progress. Highlights: Trust in data starts with public confidence: people need clarity before they share information Political data use relies on legal frameworks: public interest often overrides standard consent routes Privacy notices still matter: transparency must be understandable, not buried in jargon AI can deepen echo chambers: algorithms increasingly shape opinion and behaviour Shadow AI creates hidden exposure: staff may introduce tools without oversight AI impact assessments are becoming essential: risks need reviewing before deployment Data protection officers are evolving fast: technical AI knowledge is now increasingly valuable External expertise can reduce risk: trusted specialists help Organisations move safely Resources and actions: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with James on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/40538950
info_outline
Looking into the AI Safety and Risk Management Mirror, With CJ Clarke-Joell
03/13/2026
Looking into the AI Safety and Risk Management Mirror, With CJ Clarke-Joell
Artificial intelligence is moving faster than most leaders can comfortably process, and that is exactly why this conversation matters. Speaking with CJ Clarke-Joell at Risk Europe opened up a much deeper discussion than technology alone. We explored what happens when AI starts reflecting our own biases, behaviours and decision making back at us, and why the real challenge is not simply understanding the tools, but understanding how we show up when using them. CJ brings a powerful human lens to digital disruption, cutting through the noise around AI ethics and reminding us that leadership, empathy and critical thinking matter more than ever as regulation, responsibility and rapid change continue to collide. Highlights: AI as a mirror: reflects our biases and behaviours Human oversight: expertise must stay above automation Multiple AI tools: compare outputs to expose bias Zone of disrupted identity: uncertainty affects decision making Ethical leadership: empathy, mindfulness and purpose matter Human scaffolding: support people through digital change Regulation is coming: businesses need policy and staff awareness Practical support: private AI clarity sessions through CKC Cares Resources and actions: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with CJ on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/40414580
info_outline
The Rise of Ethical Hackers: How Gamers Are Shaping the Future of Cybersecurity, With Fergus Hay
03/06/2026
The Rise of Ethical Hackers: How Gamers Are Shaping the Future of Cybersecurity, With Fergus Hay
A teenager in a hoodie hacking systems in a dark bedroom has become the cultural stereotype. But what if that picture is completely wrong? What if the world’s next generation of cybersecurity defenders are actually sitting in front of Roblox, Minecraft or Call of Duty right now, developing the exact skills governments and organisations desperately need. My guest Fergus Hay, co-founder and CEO of The Hacking Games, believes we are witnessing a massive shift in how cyber talent is discovered and developed. Millions of young gamers are building problem solving, pattern recognition and creative thinking skills every day. The challenge is not whether this talent exists, but whether we guide it towards protecting society rather than exploiting it. We talk about the real risks young people face online, how criminal networks actively recruit talented teenage hackers, and why parents, educators and employers need to rethink how they view gaming, neurodiversity and talent. Fergus also shares how The Hacking Games is identifying young ethical hackers and connecting them with opportunities in cybersecurity, defence and technology. Highlights: Ethical hacking explained: using creativity to break systems and improve them Gaming and cyber skills: puzzle solving, pattern spotting and teamwork The scale of gaming: 3.3 billion gamers globally, 93 percent of Gen Z play Recruitment risk: cybercriminals targeting talented teenagers online Parenting in the digital world: engage with children in their gaming environments Neurodiversity advantage: pattern recognition and creative thinking in cyber roles Alternative career paths: cybersecurity apprenticeships beyond traditional university routes The Hacking Games mission: identifying and directing young talent into ethical cybersecurity careers. Resources and actions: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Fergus on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/40327110
info_outline
Psychological Safety in Risk Leadership: Culture, Inclusion and Change, With Sharon Sharples
02/27/2026
Psychological Safety in Risk Leadership: Culture, Inclusion and Change, With Sharon Sharples
Psychological safety gets talked about a lot in risk circles, but what does it really look like when you move beyond policy documents and into real culture change? A conversation with Sharon Sharples at Risk Europe sparked a refreshingly honest exchange about inclusion, leadership, and the human side of risk. From employee resource groups to speaking up processes and the reality of hybrid working pressures, Sharon shares practical insight shaped by years inside a heavily regulated financial services environment. What stood out most was the reminder that risk professionals are not here to block progress but to enable better outcomes for people, customers and the wider Organisation. If you care about culture, collaboration and building workplaces where people feel safe to contribute, there is plenty here to reflect on. Highlights Risk as opportunity: balancing protection with business growth Psychological safety culture: people first, not just compliance Employee resource groups: building belonging and inclusion Staff surveys and listening groups: tracking early warning signals Hybrid working challenges: supporting carers and working parents Risk leaders as partners: adding insight rather than blocking Test and learn mindset: piloting ideas before full investment Collective progress across industries: sharing initiatives openly Resources and actions: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Sharon on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/40241530
info_outline
Why All Safety Professionals Should Be in a State of Chronic Unease, with John Barclay
02/20/2026
Why All Safety Professionals Should Be in a State of Chronic Unease, with John Barclay
What if the real risk in safety isn’t what you see, but what you assume is already under control? This conversation challenged some deeply held beliefs about leadership, risk and effectiveness. John Barclay joined me to unpack why activity doesn’t always equal impact, why experienced organisations still face serious incidents, and why a little healthy discomfort might be exactly what keeps people safe. From exposure thinking to trust, curiosity and making the safest way the easiest way, there’s plenty here to reflect on if you genuinely want to move beyond surface-level safety and focus on what truly prevents harm. Highlights Chronic unease: absence of harm doesn’t mean presence of safety Exposure focus: manage risk sources, not just injury numbers Control effectiveness: present, understood, effective, followed Workforce involvement: design safety with people doing the work Leadership curiosity: ask what makes processes difficult Trust and honesty: high trust drives safer decision making Safety investment: reduce waste and reinvest in engineering controls Make safety easier: safest way must be simplest way to work Resources and actions: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with John on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/40160510
info_outline
The Skills EHS Leaders Urgently Need in 2026
02/13/2026
The Skills EHS Leaders Urgently Need in 2026
For years, being technically strong, compliance-focused and armed with the right certificates was enough to build a solid career in safety. But the ground is shifting fast. This conversation with Lucas Dominguez, founder of the Safety 4.0 Academy, cuts straight through the noise around AI and digital transformation and asks a much bigger question: are today’s EHS leaders actually equipped for what’s coming next? From boardroom influence to digital fluency, this one is a wake-up call for anyone who wants to stay relevant, credible and genuinely effective in the years ahead. Highlights: Technical skills alone are no longer enough: Compliance gets you in the room, not heard. AI is not replacing safety, but it is reshaping it: Augmentation, not automation. Digital fluency is becoming a core leadership skill: Understanding tech to make better decisions. Safety leadership is shifting from rule keeper to change maker: Influence, not enforcement. AI can remove low-value admin: More time for real safety work. The biggest risk is playing catch-up: Early adopters gain the advantage. Human skills still sit at the centre: Empathy, judgment and critical thinking matter more than ever. Resources and actions: Download Lucas’ free e-book “Become the Safety 4.0 Leader”: Explore the Safety 4.0 Academy (IOSH-approved and CPD-certified): Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Lucas on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/40085975
info_outline
This simple formula explains why your safety performance isn’t improving
02/06/2026
This simple formula explains why your safety performance isn’t improving
Working harder on safety but still seeing the same incidents? That sinking feeling when you’ve rolled out the training, refreshed the policies, launched the campaigns and nothing really shifts? I see this pattern constantly across Organisations. The problem isn’t effort, motivation, or people not caring. It’s a fundamental misunderstanding of how safety actually works. There’s a simple formula that explains why so many safety initiatives stall and once you see it, you can’t unsee it. Highlights: The real formula for safety: Environment × Culture Why culture alone cannot overcome poor design The multiplication effect that most Organisations miss How environments quietly shape daily behaviour Why safety culture follows change, not the other way around Real slip case study and the maths behind it Making the safe choice the easy choice Where most safety investment is going wrong Resources and actions: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/40005525
info_outline
Which comes first: safety culture or physical safety?
01/30/2026
Which comes first: safety culture or physical safety?
Everyone talks about culture, but very few talk about what actually creates it. After years of working inside real workplaces, I’ve seen the same pattern repeat itself. Leaders invest heavily in slogans, programmes and engagement campaigns, while the real problems on the ground stay exactly the same. And when that happens, trust quietly disappears. This episode cuts through the noise and gets brutally honest about what really builds a strong safety culture and why most organisations are starting in completely the wrong place. Highlights Culture follows competence: fix real problems first Trust is built on evidence: not intentions Unsafe conditions destroy belief: regardless of messaging Leadership is action: not theatre People judge results: not values statements Broken systems create cynicism: not engagement Measurable improvements build confidence: fast Physical safety is the foundation: always Resources and actions: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/39923060
info_outline
Stop Buying Insurance and Start Building Risk Partnerships
01/23/2026
Stop Buying Insurance and Start Building Risk Partnerships
For too long, insurance has been treated as a grudge purchase rather than a strategic advantage. Recording live at Risk Europe in London, this panel conversation challenged that mindset head on. What unfolded was a refreshingly honest discussion with leaders from risk, insurance, broking and law, all aligned on one thing the future belongs to those who collaborate, share insight and use evidence to actively reduce risk rather than simply transfer it. If you care about safety performance, resilience and making better commercial decisions, this conversation will change how you think about insurance. Highlights From price to value: why premium alone tells the wrong story Proof matters: using data to earn trust with insurers Partnerships over transactions: better outcomes for everyone Claims intelligence: turning lessons into prevention Risk maturity: what underwriters really look for Evidence in action: culture, behaviour and real controls Boardroom impact: using data to unlock investment Practical steps: engaging brokers and insurers earlier Resources and actions: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn: Please note that this episode’s audio quality is not at the same level as our usual recordings. We apologise for this and really appreciate your understanding.
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/39823125
info_outline
Why Most Road Collisions Are Avoidable: Older Drivers, Eyesight, and Smarter Safety Systems, With Rob Heard
01/16/2026
Why Most Road Collisions Are Avoidable: Older Drivers, Eyesight, and Smarter Safety Systems, With Rob Heard
Most serious road collisions don’t happen because of bad luck. They happen because of decisions, assumptions, and systems that quietly fail us over time. After decades at the sharp end of road safety, Rob Heard has seen exactly how those failures play out and why so many of them never needed to happen in the first place. This conversation goes far beyond driving. It’s about risk perception, dignity, behaviour change, and what safety leaders in any industry can learn from the roads we all share every day. Rob brings rare insight from hundreds of fatal collisions, national policy work, and years of campaigning that has helped shift the conversation from punishment to prevention. From eyesight and ageing to safer systems and learning cultures, this is a grounded, practical discussion about how better decisions genuinely save lives. Highlights Most fatal collisions are preventable: Around 95 percent linked to known, repeatable risk factors Older drivers and the real data: Risk rises with age, but dignity and independence still matter Eyesight as a critical safety control: Vision underpins 90 percent of driving decisions Why self-certification fails: Defective vision and medical conditions often go unreported From blame to learning: Education and assessment outperform punishment in risk reduction MOT yourself, not just the car: Fitness, cognition, eyesight, and habits all matter Safer systems thinking: Roads, vehicles, people, speeds, and post-collision learning Resources and actions: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Rob on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/39748060
info_outline
The Workplace Well-Being Time Bomb: How Culture, Silence, and Stress Create Hidden Risk
01/09/2026
The Workplace Well-Being Time Bomb: How Culture, Silence, and Stress Create Hidden Risk
There is a risk hiding in plain sight inside many organisations. It is not cyber, financial, or regulatory. It is the quiet damage caused when people do not feel safe to speak, when stress becomes normalised, and when well-being is treated as optional rather than essential. The evidence is now overwhelming. Silence has a cost, burnout is systemic, and culture is either protecting performance or quietly eroding it. This conversation from Risk Europe goes right to the heart of that challenge, exploring why psychological safety is no longer a nice to have, but a core business and safety risk that leaders can no longer afford to ignore. Highlights The economic cost of silence: Billions lost through burnout and presenteeism Psychological safety and risk: When people stay quiet, hazards multiply Manager capability gap: Line managers as first responders, often unprepared Culture over perks: Fruit bowls do not fix toxic systems Workplace design matters: Space, flexibility and trust shape behaviour Speaking up saves lives: Psychological safety and physical safety are linked Leadership responsibility: Change starts in the C-suite, not HR From awareness to action: Small human changes drive real performance gains Resources and actions: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/39657335
info_outline
The 11 Themes That Defined Safety In 2025
01/02/2026
The 11 Themes That Defined Safety In 2025
As we step into the new year, it’s a great moment to reflect on what 2025 really revealed about safety and risk.” After conversations with more than 50 leaders, practitioners, academics and innovators, clear patterns began to emerge. Different sectors, different challenges, yet the same messages kept surfacing. This episode pulls those signals together and turns a year of dialogue into a clear picture of where safety is heading, what’s changing faster than most people realise, and where the biggest opportunities now sit for organisations and professionals who want to stay ahead. Highlights from the episode Safety as a profit driver: friction removed, performance released The evolving safety professional: influence beats expertise AI in safety: from novelty to foundation Psychological safety: silence is the real risk Human reliability: systems must absorb mistakes Integrated risk: safety, security and resilience converge Measurement that matters: leading indicators over hindsight Safety and experience: trust is built in the first 30 seconds One of the most consistent themes this year was how predictable and preventable slip risk really is when it’s treated as a science, not guesswork. If that sparked a rethink, you can complete the free Slip Prevention Scorecard to see where risk is quietly building in your own environment. It takes around three and a half minutes and gives a clear, evidence-based snapshot of where to focus next. Resources and actions: Slip Prevention Scorecard: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/39582190
info_outline
Is Ergonomics The Future Of Work? With Guy Osmond
12/26/2025
Is Ergonomics The Future Of Work? With Guy Osmond
Ergonomics has quietly moved from being about chairs and screens to something far bigger and far more important. In this conversation, I’m joined by Guy Osmond, who has spent over three decades at the sharp end of workplace ergonomics and human factors. What starts with back pain quickly opens into culture, mental health, neurodiversity, hybrid work, presenteeism, and why so many people are struggling in silence. This is one of those discussions that challenges how we think about work, wellbeing, and performance, and why getting the basics right is no longer optional. Highlights Ergonomics has evolved: From furniture to human factors and wellbeing Physical pain tells a story: Stress, anxiety, and work design collide Presenteeism explained: The hidden productivity drain organisations miss Hybrid work risks: Why home workers are quietly struggling Neurodiversity at work: One size never fits all Culture over compliance: Why good intentions often fall short Engaging the C suite: Turning discomfort into investment thinking The future of work: Designing work around humans, not averages Resources and actions: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Guy on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/39532905
info_outline
Health & Safety Legal Landscape Update 2026
12/19/2025
Health & Safety Legal Landscape Update 2026
As we close out the year, the conversation around health and safety is becoming sharper, tougher and far less forgiving. Enforcement hasn’t quietly evolved, it has decisively shifted. Prosecution is now the default, scrutiny on directors is intensifying, and the margin for weak systems is shrinking fast. In this timely roundtable, I’m joined by Keith Mathews, from HCR Law’s Insurance, to cut through the noise and look at what really matters as we head into 2026. This is about defensibility, governance and avoiding the blind spots that still catch organisations out, often with devastating consequences. Key highlights Enforcement mindset shift: prosecution over persuasion Risk assessments: task specific or vulnerable Directors in focus: personal accountability rising Training expectations: quality, supervision, proof Mental health risks: legal and operational exposure Occupational disease: long tail liability remains Governance priority: board level ownership essential Resources and actions: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Keith on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/39453985
info_outline
The Health And Safety Index, With Mark Wright
12/12/2025
The Health And Safety Index, With Mark Wright
A huge amount gets said about culture, wellbeing, leadership and performance, but how often do we actually measure these things in a way that stands up to scrutiny? This conversation with Mark Wright lifts the lid on what thousands of workers across multiple continents are really telling us. The insights are sometimes uncomfortable, frequently surprising, and always actionable. If you want clarity on what’s working, what isn’t, and which levers truly shift performance, you’ll get a lot from this one. Highlights Origins of the Index: Created to fill the gap for reliable, scalable workforce feedback Integrated measurement: Leadership, wellbeing, engagement and systems all in one model Levers for action: Clear guidance on where to focus for the best improvement return The big three trends: Leadership perception gaps, shift-worker challenges, contractor dynamics Systems usability slump: Rising expectations but falling satisfaction with organisational systems Mental health insights: Growing comfort discussing mental health, but burnout and cognitive load worsening Commercial pressures: How time, productivity demands and resourcing shape behaviour Targeted strategy: Why demographic-specific insights outperform blanket organisational approaches Resources and actions: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Mark on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/39367670
info_outline
Introducing The Safety Net Foundation
12/05/2025
Introducing The Safety Net Foundation
Breaking into health and safety shouldn’t feel like hitting a brick wall. Yet so many talented people, from career-changers to those looking for a fresh start, are being shut out by the age-old “no experience, no job” cycle. In this conversation, I sit down with Kev Robins and Ben Pollard to uncover the mission, the momentum and the movement behind The Safety Net Foundation: a new not-for-profit social enterprise designed to open doors, level the playing field and support the next generation of safety professionals. We get into the story behind the foundation, the gaps it fills, and how each of us can actively support this much-needed step forward for our profession. If you care about the future of safety, this one is well worth a listen. Highlights Why the Safety Net Foundation exists: creating structured pathways into safety for first-starts and fresh-starts What makes it unique: focus on soft-skills, confidence, communication and real-world experience How mentoring works: personalised pairings, relatable lived experience, safe-space support Helping charities: pro-bono safety support while giving mentees hands-on practical exposure How companies can get involved: partnerships, monthly supporters, volunteering, introductions Early impact: mentees already being supported, CV help, interview preparation and job placements Future vision: qualifications funding, wider industry reach, digital platform with CPD and community How to take part: become a mentor, a mentee, a volunteer, a partner or connect them with charities Resources and actions: Website & Registration Safety Net Foundation website: Charity / Partner Enquiries Charity partnerships contact page: Corporate Partner Information: Social Media LinkedIn (main comms channel): Instagram: Connect Connect with Kev on LinkedIn: Connect with Ben on LinkedIn: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/39265710
info_outline
Suicide Prevention in the Workplace: Guidance, Impact, and Action, With Marcus Long
11/28/2025
Suicide Prevention in the Workplace: Guidance, Impact, and Action, With Marcus Long
The conversation with Marcus Long left a deep impression on me. His blend of professional expertise and personal experience cuts straight through the hesitation that often surrounds suicide in the workplace. This isn’t a theoretical issue or a niche wellbeing topic; it’s something every organisation can influence for the better. With the launch of BS 30480, Marcus and the wider standards community have created genuinely practical guidance that can prevent harm, support people, and give leaders the confidence to act with humanity and clarity. Highlights Why BS 30480 was created: a powerful personal catalyst and a clear gap in workplace guidance Misunderstandings that hold organisations back: “it won’t affect us” and fear of doing the wrong thing Stressors in the workplace: events and pressures that raise suicide risk Practical tools in the standard: HR toolkit, line manager toolkit, self-assessment, training guidance The importance of confidence: enabling people to speak, listen, and intervene constructively How standards shape culture: when organisations use them to truly improve, not to file away What’s next in the standards landscape: major revisions to ISO 9001, 14001 and 45001 First steps for any organisation: download BS 30480 and use the companion “first steps” resource Resources and actions: To download the standard BS 30480 Suicide and the Workplace | BSI: To download the first steps guide Suicide and the Workplace A Practical First Steps Guide | BSI: Connect with Marcus on LinkedIn: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/39177185
info_outline
Tired Minds, Higher Risks: Mastering Fatigue Management, With Dan Wakerley
11/21/2025
Tired Minds, Higher Risks: Mastering Fatigue Management, With Dan Wakerley
Fatigue hides in plain sight. It silently chips away at judgement, coordination, reaction time and even emotional stability, long before someone reaches the point of nodding off. Yet many workplaces still treat tiredness as nothing more than part of the job. In this conversation with Dan Wakerley, founder of Pillar, we lift the lid on the true impact of fatigue, why it’s entirely predictable, and how using real-time readiness data can transform safety, performance and well-being. If you want to prevent incidents rather than explain them, this is a must-listen. Highlights Fatigue as impairment: how being awake 18 hours can mirror alcohol-level degradation: real risk Cultural barriers: the “hard man” mindset and why it holds organisations back: perspective shift Predictability of fatigue: roster design, circadian insights and readiness checks: practical tools Daily risk control: adjusting tasks, not just stopping work, based on real-time data: smarter decisions Tech that helps: what readiness actually measures and why sleep hours alone mislead: clearer insights Cross-functional ownership: why CEOs, safety, HR and operations must align: integrated approach Economic upside: error reduction, productivity gains and safer outcomes: business case Immediate actions: start measuring fatigue in a small pilot and build from there: first steps Take action: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Dan on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/39106820
info_outline
Building Trust and Engagement on the Frontline, With Jonathan Hall
11/14/2025
Building Trust and Engagement on the Frontline, With Jonathan Hall
How do you get frontline teams not just to hear your safety messages, but to believe them, talk about them and act on them? Jonathan Hall, founder of SMARTbrief, has spent over two decades helping organisations bridge the gap between the boardroom and the people doing the work. We explore how tone, trust and technology come together to make communication truly land, from creative campaigns in the rail industry to tools that empower genuine two-way dialogue. This one’s packed with practical ideas to turn policies into real-world engagement. Highlights: From photographer to safety comms expert: Jonathan’s unexpected journey into frontline engagement Breaking the communication circle: why repeating the same safety messages isn’t enough Authenticity first: how tone and trust define whether messages resonate or get ignored Turning negative feedback into gold: why “that’s rubbish” can be the start of real engagement Creative campaigns that stick: from Olympic-themed awareness drives to “Sheila the nag” in rail safety Using humour, video and storytelling to drive safety conversations that people actually remember Smart Brief: the two-way communication tool transforming how frontline teams receive and share information Jonathan’s top advice: keep it simple, keep it human, and start creating your own authentic content using just your phone Take action: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/39019135
info_outline
Remember, Remember Fire Safety This November, with John Field & Bernie Higgins
11/07/2025
Remember, Remember Fire Safety This November, with John Field & Bernie Higgins
Bonfire Night might light up the skies, but it’s also the perfect spark to reignite our focus on fire safety. Joined by fire safety leaders John Field (Chair of the IOSH Fire Risk Management Group) and Bernie Higgins (former Principal Officer at London Fire Brigade and Board Member at the Fire Industry Association), we dive into what it truly takes to build resilient, fire-aware organisations, from lessons written in tragedy to leadership that keeps people, property and purpose safe. Expect stories from the frontline, sharp insights on emerging risks like lithium-ion batteries, and practical ways to create a culture where safety burns bright all year round. Highlights Lessons from tragedy: how preventable fires shape lifelong commitment to saving lives Building culture, not silos: why fire safety must be everyone’s responsibility Leadership from the top: board-level engagement that drives real safety improvement Beyond compliance: moving from tick-lists to resilience and continuous learning Emerging fire risks: what lithium-ion batteries, e-bikes and modern materials mean for safety today Resilient design: bridging innovation, sustainability and fire protection standards Staying proactive: practical steps for organisations, from tabletop exercises to strong fire strategies Igniting action: how small daily habits can transform fire safety awareness across any workplace 👉 Take action: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with John on LinkedIn: Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn: Get your free ticket for Risk Europe:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/38935860
info_outline
Safety Through Conversations, With Stuart Farquharson
10/31/2025
Safety Through Conversations, With Stuart Farquharson
What if the key to improving safety wasn’t more paperwork, but more genuine dialogue? Stuart Farquharson, founder of RiskTalk, shares how listening to workers and replacing forms with real conversations has changed the way leading organisations manage risk, engage teams and strengthen safety culture. It’s a story of innovation, courage and the power of simply talking things through, backed by technology that captures the human side of safety. Highlights From forms to voices: How frustration on the ground led to a global shift in safety thinking The value of dialogue: Why open conversations achieve safer outcomes than written procedures AI with purpose: How RiskTalk’s AI coach improves conversations without losing the human touch Results that matter: Real examples of reduced incident severity and stronger engagement Changing culture: Moving from compliance to connection, and why it drives performance Design that works: How user experience can make or break safety technology The road ahead: Voice tech, AI, and the next evolution of proactive risk management Keeping people at the centre: Building tools for workers first, not for management dashboards 👉 Take action: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Stuart on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn: Get your free ticket for Risk Europe:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/38844935
info_outline
From courtroom to boardroom: what legal lessons teach us about prevention with Emma Bowens
10/24/2025
From courtroom to boardroom: what legal lessons teach us about prevention with Emma Bowens
When tragedy strikes in the workplace, few moments are more sobering than standing in court to defend what went wrong. But what if you could experience those lessons without the pain of a real incident? In this powerful conversation, I sit down with regulatory lawyer and trainer Emma Bowens, who has spent two decades defending organisations in some of the most serious health and safety cases imaginable. Emma reveals the eye-opening realities of what happens after an incident, why legal insight can transform prevention strategies, and how the smallest decisions, made in the heat of crisis, can change everything from sentencing to culture. With real stories, hard-earned lessons, and practical tools, this discussion bridges the gap between law, leadership and prevention, helping directors and safety professionals think differently about readiness, resilience and responsibility. Highlights The courtroom perspective: How witnessing real cases changes leaders’ mindsets on safety and accountability Turning lessons into prevention: Why Emma created immersive mock trials and crisis replay sessions to help organisations learn before disaster strikes The first few hours: Decisions made straight after an incident can shape reputation, defence and sentencing outcomes Near-misses and culture: What unreported or ignored near-misses reveal about leadership and psychological safety Evidence and credibility: Why “doing the right thing” matters more than the perfect paperwork—but why documentation still saves you in court Leadership behaviours: The danger of walking past poor practice and what “you get what you tolerate” really means Preparedness vs panic: How to build crisis plans that prevent chaos, confusion and poor decisions under pressure Upcoming training: Join Emma’s free 45-minute Crisis Replay session on 9 December (12:00–12:45) for a taste of her full half-day course (£149 + VAT). Details and sign-up link: 👉 Take action: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Emma on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn: Get your free ticket for Risk Europe:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/38759150
info_outline
From Boring to Brilliant: Transforming Safety Through Better Communication with Jon Fry
10/17/2025
From Boring to Brilliant: Transforming Safety Through Better Communication with Jon Fry
Ever felt that health and safety can be, well… a bit dull? Jon Fry thinks so too, and he’s on a mission to change it. From sawmills in mid-Wales to safety consultancy and copywriting, Jon shares how small shifts in tone, humour and empathy can turn safety from a chore into a culture people actually care about. We explore how to communicate with impact, borrow lessons from marketing, and use data, pragmatism and a dash of humanity to make work genuinely safer, and more enjoyable. Highlights: Reframing safety: Making it relevant, engaging and human to boost buy-in and culture The power of communication: What safety professionals can learn from marketing and copywriting “What’s in it for them”: Why focusing on benefits for others transforms engagement Using humour and empathy: How to build trust and break through resistance From data to decisions: Why categorisation matters more than counting incidents Resilience and pragmatism: Balancing compliance with workable, people-focused solutions Simple frameworks: How to hook attention, highlight problems and drive action Taking action that sticks: Turning conversations into consistent, lasting behaviour change 👉 Take action: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Jon on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn: Get your free ticket for Risk Europe:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/38602380
info_outline
High profile hacks, human risks, with Jane Frankland
10/10/2025
High profile hacks, human risks, with Jane Frankland
Cyber threats are no longer confined to IT teams, they’re everyone’s business. In this powerful conversation with cybersecurity leader, author and founder of the Insecurity Movement, Jane Frankland, we explore the human side of cyber risk and what leaders can do to protect their organisations, people, and reputations. From high-profile hacks at Marks & Spencer and Jaguar Land Rover to the rise of AI-driven attacks and insider threats, Jane reveals why resilience beats perfection and how to prepare for when, not if, a breach happens. Highlights Behind the Bond: How Jane’s journey from art and design, and a touch of James Bond inspiration, led her to pioneer one of the first female-owned ethical hacking firms. High-Profile Lessons: What the recent Marks & Spencer and Jaguar Land Rover cyber-attacks reveal about vulnerabilities, response and responsibility. Homegrown Hackers: Why many new attackers are young, UK-based and driven by both money and kudos. Insurance Illusions: Why cyber insurance isn’t a safety net, and how organisations remain legally responsible for data protection. People Power: How to turn employees from weakest link to strongest shield through tailored, engaging, role-specific training. Planning for the Inevitable: Why every leader needs a tested cyber response plan, just like a fire drill. The AI Acceleration: How artificial intelligence is supercharging cybercrime, and what “human in the loop” really means. Take Action: Jane urges leaders to build cyber literacy, leverage free resources like the UK National Cyber Security Centre’s Board Toolkit, and take advantage of her free educational content on YouTube and LinkedIn. 👉 Take action: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Jane on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn: Get your free ticket for Risk Europe:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/38524115
info_outline
Practical Risk Assessment, with Phil Clarke
10/03/2025
Practical Risk Assessment, with Phil Clarke
How do you take risk assessment from being a paperwork burden to a living, useful tool that actually helps people on the ground? That’s exactly what Phil Clarke has been exploring throughout his diverse career, from military intelligence, through environmental health, to leading safety across complex, multi-site organisations. In this conversation, Phil unpacks his philosophy of making risk assessments dynamic, local, and owned by operational leaders rather than just the safety team. He also shares his “Safety Six” model, insights from his doctoral research, and some practical steps you can take right away. Highlights: From army intelligence to safety leader: lessons in operational risk The trap of complexity: why most risk assessments fail to add value Local ownership: why supervisors, not safety teams, should lead the process Templates vs tailoring: striking the right balance for different sites The Safety Six model: communication, localism, AI, review, knowledge, entrepreneur Dynamic assessment: making it flexible enough for real-world variation Competence and culture: the overlooked foundations of safer work Practical first step: focus on the basics before chasing the latest trend 👉 Take action: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Phil on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn: Get free ticket for Risk Europe:
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/38441315
info_outline
Walking & Working Surfaces - From Behavioural Insights To Action, with Daryl Wake
09/26/2025
Walking & Working Surfaces - From Behavioural Insights To Action, with Daryl Wake
Why do slips, trips and falls stubbornly remain the number one cause of workplace accidents, even in high-risk industries that are otherwise strong on safety? The answer lies in both human behaviour and practical action, and that’s exactly what Daryl Wake of Dekra and I explore together. Daryl brings fresh behavioural data gathered across industries, showing how and why people really slip, trip and fall, and the critical role of leadership and culture. I then take the baton to share a roadmap of proven, practical steps you can implement immediately to cut incidents, defend claims, and build a safer, stronger organisation. Highlights include: Behavioural safety insights: why a few key habits cause most accidents Data in action: patterns behind 7,500+ workplace observations Leadership’s role: culture, influence and frontline engagement Practical tools: how to prevent slips and trips in real-world settings The five mistakes organisations make: and how to avoid them Trips vs slips: why they’re different and need different solutions Measuring risk: the science of slip testing and pendulum values Free resources: download my book Prevent Slip Accidents and take the slip risk scorecard self-assessment 👉 Take action: Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: Connect with Daryl on LinkedIn: Connect with Christian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-harris-slip-safety/
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/38352065
info_outline
Stop the Slip: Why Falls Are a Hidden Epidemic, with Thom Disch
09/19/2025
Stop the Slip: Why Falls Are a Hidden Epidemic, with Thom Disch
Slips, trips and falls may sound like minor mishaps, but they are a silent epidemic causing devastating injuries, financial losses and even deaths every single day. Entrepreneur and author Thom Disch joins me to expose why falls are one of the most underestimated risks in our lives and workplaces – and what we can do to change that. From psychology to products, from boardroom buy-in to bedtime stories, this conversation unpacks practical ways to stop the slip. Highlights include: Falls are a hidden epidemic: 14% of deaths in the USA Why we underestimate risk: “that’s not me” mentality Built environment impact: floors, stairs and surfaces Safety culture shift: awareness over urgency Technology’s role: training tools and distractions Stop the Slip book: stories, stats and strategies Don’t Fall, Franny: teaching children safety early Practical tools: HandyTreads solutions and resources 👉 Take action: Explore slip-prevention tools: Get Thom’s book Connect with on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomdisch/ Sign up for a future : https://safetyroundtable.co.uk/ Connect with n: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-harris-slip-safety/
/episode/index/show/2ab96c88-edff-44c1-bb14-b37ffaf97afa/id/38265085