Case Study: Strengthening Health and Safety Processes for a Biomedical Research Organisation

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Case Study: Strengthening Health and Safety Processes for a Biomedical Research Organisation

Posted on 27 August 2025

​Background

A rapidly growing UK food manufacturer was expanding its operations, increasing both workforce size and production output. Health and safety had previously been managed part-time, but growth brought heightened risks, stricter regulatory obligations, and the need for a dedicated HSE strategy.

The business needed an experienced Health & Safety Consultant to design and embed robust systems, launch a behavioural safety programme, and instil a proactive safety culture.

Challenge

The client required an experienced consultant to enhance health and safety by improving contractor control, updating processes for lab equipment maintenance via the Permit to Work system, and standardising incident investigations with consistent documentation and procedures to support safer practices and organisational learning.

The Solution

We placed a seasoned health and safety professional who:

  1. Reviewed and enhanced contractor management processes

  2. Standardised incident investigation procedures

  3. Created clear guidelines and tools to ensure consistent implementation

The Result

Enhanced Contractor Management: The candidate improved contractor processes, integrating them into existing systems.

Standardised Incident Investigations: Clear guidelines and tools for investigations were developed, ensuring consistent procedures were applied across all teams.

Strengthened Safety Culture: Risks were reduced and compliance improved across the organisation, creating a proactive safety culture.

Why Irwin and Colton?

This case study highlights our ability to rapidly deploy high-calibre interim HSEQ professionals who deliver immediate value.

We help organisations tackle urgent challenges with the confidence of expert support.

To discuss how we can support your health and safety requirements, contact Tom Hewat – Senior Consultant.

tom.hewat@irwinandcolton.com

01923 432637

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