Young people are now almost 20 times more likely to pursue a career in health and safety than they were in 2019, according to our own health and safety training data. Could health and safety now be seen as a cool career?
It seems so, and we certainly think so! Here, we have compiled a list of the 10 of the most eye-catching roles, these include:
Stunt Safety Coordinator
The thrill of stunts requires a keen eye for safety. These coordinators meticulously plan and oversee stunt performances, ensuring the well-being of stunt performers and actors.
Their duties include planning stunts, casting stunt performers, prioritising safety and consulting continuously with the director, assistant director and camera operator to make sure every stunt reads well on camera.
It’s the kind of job where no day is the same, and you rub shoulders with stars thanks to your health and safety know-how.
Film and Television Set Safety Officer
Maintaining a safe environment on film and TV sets is crucial to production. Set safety officers identify and prevent hazards associated with filming activities, from pyrotechnics to special effects.
David Deane, Set Safety Officer on Skyfall, said in a Screenskills interview: “We’re there to advise on the safety and welfare of all personnel working on a production and, also, members of the public who might be affected by the film production process.”
If you want that taste of Hollywood, David’s advice for someone starting out: “They should start doing some health and safety courses.”
Rigging Safety Inspector
Concerts, live events, and theatrical productions rely on complex rigging systems including hoists, booms and ropes for lighting, cameras, and special effects and stunts.
Rigging safety inspectors have to ensure these systems are installed and operated safely, so they naturally get the best seat in the house for lots of great shows.
Special Effects Technician
Pyrotechnics add a dazzling element to shows and concerts, but they also involve fire risks. Special effects technicians handle and discharge pyrotechnics safely.
From explosions and detailed models through to fantastical monsters, the ability to wow often comes down to the skill of the technicians behind the magic. Everything amazing you’ve ever seen in a film was most likely down to an SFX technician. It’s a creative and exciting job that requires a lot of technical skill as well as health and safety knowledge.
Adventure Tourism Health & Safety Consultant
Adventure tourism is a growing industry. More and more people want to trek to the North Pole, or row the Atlantic, and specialist businesses are cropping up to accommodate.
Naturally, these extreme holidays require extreme health and safety from a professional with experience, and that’s where you could come in!
Disaster Relief Safety Officer
In times of crisis, bold actions are often the difference between life and death. But to avoid making a disaster worse, any recovery efforts have to be carefully thought through and risk assessed.
Safety officers who work specifically in disaster relief are true heroes, whose knowledge and experience can literally save lives.
Animal Handlers
When animals are part of the entertainment, their safety becomes paramount. That’s where animal handlers come in. They ensure that the animals are well-cared for under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, and handled safely on set, or during performances.
Animal handlers are also important for putting actors and performers at ease, making sure they feel safe around the animals. If you fancy a walk on the wild side with an actual lion, this could be the job for you!
Theme Park Safety Inspector
Theme parks offer fun rides and attractions, so it makes sense that the safety role would also be thrilling. Safety is of course a top priority for parks, whether a travelling fairground or a large theme park.
The role’s priority is to ensure rides are functioning properly and adhere to safety regulations, keeping both ride operators and passengers safe.
Costume, Scenery and Prop Safety Specialist
There are so many safety considerations for theatres, films and television sets to consider. One slightly overlooked one being the safety of costumes, set scenery and props.
A costume specialist maintains the safety of costumes and wardrobe items, ensuring they are free of flammable materials or allergens. Those wigs Queen Charlotte wears in Bridgerton are substantial after all.
You could also be involved in set inspections, assessing the safety of staging, equipment, lighting and props, as well as the storage of these items when the cameras stop rolling.
Toy Safety Tester
If you’re a big kid at heart, this might be the one for you. Working as a toy safety tester is a fun but vital role. In essence it’s all about ensuring toys meet safety regulations and don’t present children with any potential hazards. With products aimed at children, you’ve got to make sure they don’t have any chemical, physical, mechanical, electrical, flammability, hygiene, and even radioactivity risks.
The role has a wide scope and lots of perks – not least you’ll be getting your hands on toys before they even hit the market. ‘Never growing up’ may just be the best attribute you can have to succeed.
Has one caught your eye? Why not checkout our wide range of health and safety courses to support your new H&S aspirations.