Creating a movement in safety

At our AGM in April, TRA members had the opportunity to hear from Ian Halloway, Health & Safety Business Partner at National Timber Systems. Stepping in at short notice, Ian delivered a powerful and engaging presentation on compliance, titled “Dancers & Geese.”

Ian also shared details of his ongoing research into safety leadership, which he is undertaking as part of a postgraduate degree in Safety Leadership and Risk Management at the University of Portsmouth. As part of this research, he will soon be launching a survey and inviting TRA members to take part.

TRA Chair Nick Boulton said:

“Ian’s session was a timely reminder that safety leadership isn’t confined to one person or role; it’s a shared responsibility. We fully support his work and encourage all our members to contribute to his important research.”

A survey link or QR code will be shared shortly and we encourage everyone to take a few minutes to participate. Please ensure you have read the participant leaflet before you take the survey.

Ian’s presentation from the AGM can be found here LINK.  The session explored the challenges of leading in safety and the characteristics that define a competent safety leader. Drawing on personal insight and experience, Ian encouraged us to consider the knowledge, skills, and behaviours that underpin effective safety leadership. His dynamic presentation style sparked reflection and discussion among attendees.

A memorable highlight was a video clip featuring the “dancing guy” – a humorous yet impactful illustration of how movements are created: one person takes the lead, and others follow, turning action into momentum. Ian left us with a strong takeaway in safety, we are all leaders and followers. Like a flock of geese, we must each be ready to lead and support when the moment calls.