Top Tips for Choosing an HSE Consultancy that’s Right for You
Covid-19 has exponentially increased conversation around the topic of health and safety. Many companies who may have considered themselves medium or low in risk have now had their eyes opened to the fact that without the proper management of health and safety in place, operations can be shut down or severely curtailed overnight.
In addition to the ethical and moral reasons behind developing and implementing robust HSE management systems, the financial reasons are now at the forefront of many companies minds; how to ensure that they position themselves to successfully bid for tenders, win more work, secure further revenue and safeguard profits.
To aid companies in these objectives and provide health and safety support there are numerous companies or individuals touting themselves as “HSE Consultants” How do you evaluate and decide if they are any good, and if they are, will they be the best fit for your company ?
Ensuring health and safety in the workplace is paramount for any business. However, navigating the complexities of regulations, risk assessments, and compliance can be daunting. That’s where health and safety consultancies come in. These firms specialize in providing expertise and guidance to help businesses maintain a safe and healthy working environment. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right consultancy for your specific needs? In this article, we’ll explore key factors to consider when selecting a health and safety consultancy.
Health and Safety Consultants UAE
Choosing a health and safety consultant specific to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) requires careful consideration of several factors unique to the region. Here are some key steps to help you make an informed decision:
Familiarity with UAE Regulations
Ensure that the consultancy you choose has a deep understanding of the health and safety regulations specific to the UAE. The country has its own set of laws and guidelines governing workplace safety, and compliance with these regulations is essential to avoid penalties and ensure the well-being of your employees. The Consultant must be able to offer HSE Consulting Services which prove their in depth knowledge of all applicable UAE laws and regulations. These will include; Labour Law 33 of 2021, OSHAD, OSHJ, TRAKHEES etc (dependent on the companies licencing jurisdiction and activities)
Experience in the UAE Market
Look for consultants who have extensive experience working with businesses in the UAE. They should be familiar with the local business environment, cultural nuances, and industry practices prevalent in the region. This familiarity will enable them to provide tailored solutions that address the unique challenges faced by businesses operating in the UAE.
Accreditation and Certification
Verify that the consultancy holds relevant accreditations and certifications recognized in the UAE. This may include certifications from local authorities or international bodies such as the Dubai Municipality, Abu Dhabi Occupational Safety and Health Center, or the British Safety Council. Accredited consultants are more likely to have the expertise and credibility necessary to deliver high-quality services.
Industry Expertise
Consider the consultancy’s experience in your specific industry sector. Whether you operate in construction, oil and gas, hospitality, or any other industry, choose a consultant with a track record of success in your field. Industry-specific knowledge will enable them to understand the unique risks and challenges associated with your business and provide targeted solutions to mitigate them.
Language and Cultural Compatibility
Ensure that the consultancy team is proficient in English and Arabic, as these are the primary languages used in business communication in the UAE. Additionally, consider the cultural compatibility of the consultants with your organization. A consultancy that understands and respects local customs and practices will be better equipped to integrate seamlessly with your workforce and facilitate effective communication.
References and Reputation
Seek recommendations from other businesses in the UAE or research online reviews to gauge the reputation of the consultancy. Request references from past clients to get firsthand insights into their experiences and the outcomes achieved. A consultancy with a strong reputation for professionalism, reliability, and client satisfaction is more likely to deliver positive results for your business.
By considering these factors and conducting thorough due diligence, you can choose a health and safety consultant in the UAE that meets your specific needs and helps you ensure a safe and compliant workplace environment.
Determine Your Needs
Before diving into the sea of consultancy options, take some time to assess your specific health and safety requirements. Consider factors such as the size of your business, industry regulations, existing safety protocols, and any unique hazards present in your workplace. Understanding your needs will help you narrow down your search and find a consultancy that can address your specific challenges.
Expertise and Credentials
When evaluating health and safety consultancies, it’s crucial to verify their expertise and credentials. Look for firms with experienced professionals who hold relevant certifications and qualifications in occupational health and safety. Check if they are accredited by recognized bodies or associations in the field. A reputable consultancy should have a track record of successfully helping businesses achieve compliance and improve safety performance.
Industry Experience
Different industries have unique safety requirements and challenges. Therefore, it’s essential to choose a consultancy with experience in your specific sector. Whether you operate in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, or hospitality, seek out a consultancy that understands the nuances of your industry. They should be familiar with industry-specific regulations, best practices, and emerging trends to provide tailored solutions for your business.
Range of Services
Consider the range of services offered by each consultancy. While some firms specialize in specific areas such as risk assessments or safety training, others provide comprehensive solutions covering various aspects of health and safety management. Assess your needs and prioritize the services that are most relevant to your business. Ideally, choose a consultancy that can offer a holistic approach to address all your safety requirements.
Tailored Solutions
Avoid one-size-fits-all approaches when selecting a health and safety consultancy. Your business is unique, and your safety needs may differ from others in your industry. Look for consultancies that take the time to understand your organization’s culture, operations, and challenges. They should be able to develop customized solutions that align with your goals and priorities, rather than offering generic templates or cookie-cutter advice.
Client References and Testimonials
One of the best ways to gauge the reliability and effectiveness of a consultancy is by seeking feedback from past and current clients. Ask for references or testimonials from businesses similar to yours that have worked with the consultancy before. Inquire about their experiences, the quality of service provided, and the outcomes achieved. Additionally, look for online reviews and ratings to gather more insights into the consultancy’s reputation and track record.
Communication and Accessibility
Effective communication is essential for a successful partnership with a health and safety consultancy. Choose a firm that values clear and transparent communication, and is readily accessible when you need assistance or have questions. They should be responsive to your inquiries, provide regular updates on project progress, and be proactive in addressing any concerns that arise. A consultancy that prioritizes open communication fosters collaboration and trust, leading to better outcomes for your business.
Cost and Value
While cost is undoubtedly a factor in your decision-making process, it’s essential to consider the value offered by a consultancy rather than just focusing on the price tag. Look beyond the initial quote and assess the long-term benefits of partnering with the consultancy. Consider factors such as the quality of service, expertise of the team, and the potential impact on your business’s safety performance and compliance. Investing in a reputable consultancy may yield significant returns in terms of reducing risks, avoiding penalties, and enhancing employee well-being.
Look at their Trade Licence
– Some companies try and conduct HSE Consultancy work without the required licence and approvals. Ask to see the companies Trade Licence; does it have “Professional Health and Safety Consultants” on it ? If not, they are not an HSE Consultancy licensed to work in the UAE
Look at their Hands on Experience:
– Look for evidence that the Health and Safety Consultancy company have previously successfully dealt with problems similar to yours. Their case studies should provide tangible evidence of successful past project delivery
Do they Speak in Jargon Free Language:
– Health and Safety is an industry full of anachronisms and it is easy to become confused by the jargon filled language. Therefore, it is vital to choose an HSE Consultancy who will take the time to thoroughly understand your problems and provide you with considered, tailored advice and solutions delivered in straightforward terms.
At it’s most basic level, if you can’t understand what the Consultant is saying what good is their service ?
Do they Provide User Friendly Solutions
– We often get calls from clients who have had other consultancies develop “copy paste” systems for them. Leaving them with a bunch of almost useless paperwork not aligned to the companies activities and certainly not structured in a way that the client is able to manage themselves thereafter.- An HSE Consultant should ensure that they provide workable, user friendly HSE solutions aligned to the clients activities and operations. Leaving them with an easy to manage workflow and process to ensure ease of reporting and compliance. Be sure to question your potential HSE Consultancy on how their solution will ensure this.
Will they Build Capacity and Ensure Knowledge Transfer:
– Ask if the HSE Consultant is happy to build value into their service by ensuring that knowledge transfer is present throughout the project. Building capacity and leaving you in a stronger position than before once the project is finished
Do they have a Technical Governance Policy in Place:
– Ideally, the HSE Consultancy should have a robust Technical Governance and Quality Policy in place underpinning their work. Ask to see a copy of this if it is available
Look to see that the HSE Consultant has Significant Experience as a Consultant:
– In the current economic climate we are seeing more and more HSE Managers moving into Consultancy. The skill set is very different. Ask for your potential HSE Consultants CV to investigate their length of service spent as a Health and Safety Consultant
Are they Experienced in your Sector
– Although business can benefit from the cross pollination of ideas from other industries and it can prove useful to have access to an HSE Consultant who can bring fresh ideas and thinking – sometimes it is more important to use a Consultant who understands your industry in depth
What are their Academic Qualifications
– Ideally an HSE Consultant should be a NEBOSH Diploma qualified, in addition to the entry grade NEBOSH International General Certificate
What are their Professional Memberships:
– In addition to academic qualifications, look for membership of professional bodies such as; CIMOSH or FIIRSM. This shows that the HSE Consultant is committed to continuous professional development
Conclusion
Choosing the right health and safety consultancy is a critical decision that can have a profound impact on your business’s success and reputation. By considering factors such as expertise, industry experience, tailored solutions, and communication, you can find a consultancy that meets your specific needs and helps you achieve your safety goals. Remember to conduct thorough research, seek recommendations, and ask probing questions to ensure that you make an informed choice. With the right consultancy by your side, you can create a safer and healthier workplace for your employees while safeguarding your business against potential risks and liabilities.
Corporate OHS – Health and Safety
If you are looking for support with occupational health and safety in the UAE. Or help from expert Safety Consultants. Corporate OHS is a Health and Safety Consultancy services provider. Oure HSE Consultants offer expert resources and superior performance to give you greater results.
We specialize in creating workable, user friendly solutions aligned to your business activities, operations and budget.
Our range of health and safety consultancy services includes;
– Health and Safety Risk Assessments
– Hazard identification and control measure implementation
– Gap Analysis
– Audits and compliance audits
– HSE management system development, implementation and review. Including locally compliant systems such as OSHAD or OSHJ. And/or accredited systems such as ISO 45001, ISO 14001,
ISO 9001 and ISO 50001
– HSE legal compliance reviews and assistance
– Accident investigations
– Business continuity and crisis management
– Long term or project based HSE outsourcing
– Flexible monthly support retainers giving access to HSE service without the burden of a permanent cost
To find out more about our services, please visit our website www.corporateohs.com Or send an email to enquiries@corporateohs.com, or call 00 971 4 550 7862.