Irwin and Colton have partnered with NEBOSH on a series of articles looking into questions from their alumni.
Question: Are there any new skills or competencies employers are starting to prioritise in health and safety roles?
Simply put… yes. It’s a trend we’re seeing across the sector.
While the fundamentals of health and safety remain essential, employers are increasingly looking for professionals who bring a broader skill set to the table. These shifts reflect the changing nature of workplaces as a whole and the changing demands of the workplace.
So, what does this mean for you as a Health and Safety professional?
Data, Digital Skills and Reporting Expertise
Employers are placing greater emphasis on data-driven decision-making. Health and safety professionals are expected to interpret data and utilise technology to produce insightful reports from which to base decisions. Familiarity with digital reporting tools and platforms is becoming increasingly valued. Beyond reporting, technology is now embedded in day-to-day HSE operations. Experience with cloud-based compliance systems and digital audit tools is no longer optional; it’s expected.
Demonstrating confidence with these tools can set you apart.
Communication and influence
The ability to engage and influence stakeholders at every level, from the boardroom to the shop floor, is now viewed as a core competency for health and safety professionals. Technical knowledge and qualifications, such as the NEBOSH Certificate, remain essential. But non-technical skills are just as critical: securing buy-in, building trust, and bringing people with you as you drive change.
In practice, that means being able to communicate complex safety information clearly and in a way that resonates with different audiences. It also means understanding organisational culture, reading the room, and adapting your approach so that safety feels relevant, practical, and owned by everyone. These are the skills that increasingly set candidates apart, because they turn good technical advice into real-world impact.
For organisations with international operations or diverse workforces, cultural sensitivity and the ability to work across borders are increasingly important. Even if you haven’t worked abroad, experience collaborating with international teams or adapting to different working environments is a real asset.
A broader remit: Safety sits alongside sustainability, wellbeing and more
The health and safety profession is widening fast. Many organisations no longer see safety as a standalone function; it’s increasingly wrapped into a broader “responsible business” agenda. So, while deep technical safety expertise is still the foundation, having a second technical string to your bow can be a real advantage.
We’re seeing growing demand for safety professionals who can also contribute to areas like sustainability, wellbeing, training, quality, and even security. Not because anyone expects you to be an expert in everything, but because these disciplines overlap in the real world. If you can connect the dots, you become far more valuable.
There’s a particularly strong convergence between health, safety and sustainability. Candidates with knowledge of ESG principles, carbon reporting, environmental compliance, or wider sustainability strategy are highly sought after - especially for roles that span broader HSE functions or support corporate sustainability goals.
At the same time, organisations are constantly adapting to change. Restructures, new operating models, evolving regulations, and rising stakeholder expectations mean “business as usual” doesn’t stay usual for long. That’s why candidates who can show adaptability and who’ve helped lead change initiatives in the past really stand out.
In short:
Strong safety fundamentals will always matter. But if you’ve also got experience in sustainability, wellbeing, training, quality, or security, you’re not just keeping pace with the profession, you’re future-proofing your career. NEBOSH has launched three new qualifications designed to help organisations counter terrorist threats and, in the UK, prepare for new legislation. These could be a great starting point for those looking to broaden their skill set. NEBOSH also offer an Environment Certificate.
Final thoughts:
Health and safety roles are evolving. Employers still value technical expertise, but they increasingly want professionals who combine compliance knowledge with strategic thinking, digital skills, and strong communication skills. By developing these competencies and showcasing them in your CV and interviews, you’ll position yourself as a forward-thinking candidate ready to meet the demands of a profession that is constantly changing.
At Irwin and Colton, we’ve seen a clear shift in what employers expect from health and safety professionals. The core foundations remain vital, but those who combine them with broader business skills are standing out.
If you’re reviewing your CV or preparing for a new role, consider how you can highlight these emerging competencies. And if you’d like tailored advice, our team is here to help.
You can reach us by emailing info@irwinandcolton.com or calling 01923 432 633.