Leading the world’s largest health and safety organisation takes more than just expertise, it takes passion, purpose, and a deep commitment to protecting people. For IOSH President Kelly Nicoll, that commitment is personal. After witnessing the devastating impact of workplace accidents, she’s on a mission to drive meaningful change and reshape how we think about safety.
I sat down with Kelly to discuss her vision for the year ahead, including her top priorities: tackling the risks of working at height, promoting coaching as a key leadership skill, and addressing the well-being of safety professionals themselves. The conversation also covers the unique challenges of the leisure industry, how safety can shake off the “fun police” reputation, and why connection and shared learning are vital for success in the profession.
Episode Highlights:
- A life-changing moment: Kelly shares the personal experiences that shaped her approach to safety.
- Working at height: A major focus for IOSH this year—tackling one of the biggest causes of workplace fatalities.
- Coaching over compliance: Why great safety professionals act as coaches, not just rule enforcers.
- Self-care in safety: The often-overlooked well-being of safety professionals—who looks after those who look after everyone else?
- Leisure industry challenges: From ice rinks to swimming pools, managing unique risks in the sector.
- Changing perceptions: How safety can be seen as a positive enabler rather than a blocker.
- The power of networks: Why connection and shared learning are essential for progress.
Actions:
- Sign up for a future Safety Roundtable: https://safetyroundtable.co.uk/
- Connect with Kelly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-nicoll-cfiosh-5775b8117/
- Connect with Christian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-harris-slip-safety/
- Participate in the survey: The State Of Safety in 2025: https://scorecard.slipsafety.co.uk/survey2025
