Find out more about HSE People Panel Member Scott Crichton

How did you get started in the industry?

I ‘fell’ into HSE (pardon the pun).

I set out from school wanting to join the military and following in my step-dad’s footsteps.  After a short time serving and due to redundancies I decided that I would apply to the police force (as that was my alternative to military life when at school).  After a few unsuccessful applications, I obtained a job working for Securitas and was asked if I wanted to become the Health and Safety Representative.  Many Health and Safety courses and after 15 years experience, here I am.  After rekindling an estranged relationship with my biological father, I learned that he too had been involved in health and safety.  So you could say, it runs in the blood.

Do you have a motto or saying that you live by?

Live life in the fast lane.

Who or what inspires you?

My family inspire to be the best version of me possible.  From a celebrity perspective; Steve Jobs, Richard Branson, Alan Sugar and John Maxwell are a among a few.  These individuals have entrepreneurial and leadership prowess.

If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Chicken as there are so many variants of how chicken can be cooked.

What advice would you give to someone looking to getting started in the industry?

Go for it.  Get started, don’t be shy in starting and don’t think you need to know everything (as you will always be learning – you can’t be the end product).  Gain some qualifications and gain some experience and keep moving forward like that.  Finally, I would advise to gain other health and safety experience by volunteering for organisations.  This enables you to gain multiple experience in a short time.

How do you unwind and relax?

Family time and a good movie is a good opportunity to chill.  I also love to read books because I love learning and as you’ve seen I also enjoy cycling (either mountain biking or road).

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In five years time, I will have been in the profession for twenty years and will still only be in my earlier 40’s!  I would expect to see myself as a Chartered Fellow – the pinnacle of IOSH.  I will continue helping people as I am a firm believer in this principle.  I am also exploring military Chaplaincy.

Would you recommend a career in the HSE industry

I would thoroughly recommend a career within the profession.  I have experienced so much – particularly as a consultant.  Our profession grows you enormously and the skills and experiences that you can gain are immensely satisfying.


Thanks Scott, lovely finding out more about you and your background. If you have a question you would like to ask Scott or another member of the HSE People Panel let us know info@hsepeople.com