Celebrating success!

THE SAFETY Groups UK (SGUK) awards are an opportunity to recognise, celebrate and communicate the success of Safety Groups, organisations, and individuals. These awards were first established as part of the Scottish Chamber of Safety (SCoS) Awards. Since being adopted by SGUK they provide an opportunity to recognise innovation throughout the UK.  

The Awards are open to all organisations, of any size, based or operating in the UK - irrespective of whether they are currently members of a SGUK Group. 

The aim of these awards is to recognise and share innovative work, in its various forms, to improve workplace health and safety.

The overall winner of the SGUK Innovation Awards receives the Lord Cullen Trophy, a silver cup, which recognises and encourages, outstanding innovation. 

The 2024 first place went to Building Mental Health Alliance for its entry: “Mental Health in Construction Signposting Service”.

The judges appreciated that their submission and presentation were comprehensive and well-prepared, with extensive evidence of activity and impact.  This was an innovative response to an important issue affecting the construction industry. The concept of forming an alliance of stakeholder organisations to create and promote a single, cohesive signposting service for mental health showed innovation throughout and will have a lasting legacy. The independent website – provides an ever-open bridge to help. The simple and effective message ‘2 clicks from help’ and QR code is a motivational aid to those in need.  

Second place Award for Innovation and the Stevenson Shield went to Harris Brick Safety Systems for its entry: “Brick Bud: Innovative Safety Product”.

These awards aim to recognise work that has involved learners, of any age, in initiatives that demonstrate effective education to advance health and safety.

The Scottish Chamber of Safety (SCOS) silver punch bowl, is awarded to the overall winner in recognition of their outstanding contribution to the development of health and safety through education.  This year the award goes to  Aspire Community Benefit Service for their entry: “Customer Safety Champions”

The judges loved their approach to the educational process. One of the stand-out parts of their entry was that they developed the process for their Customers - using a fresh, engaging, learner-centred approach that encouraged and rewarded their involvement.

They tuned the educational process to the personal needs of their customers and inspired them to enjoy participation in health and safety arrangements.  This made a huge difference to their lives and that of others involved.  The transformation was impressive and reflected in the happy faces of the Customer who became Champions. This sets an appropriately high standard for others to emulate.

The SGUK Hero Awards are New for 2024 and are open to nominations for individuals based or operating in the UK.  They aim to recognise the personal achievements of exceptional individuals who are making a difference in the world of health and safety.

President’s trophy

The overall winner of the Health & Safety Hero Awards, receives the President’s Trophy, a silver cup, which recognises and encourages the personal achievements of exceptional individuals who are health and safety heroes in their own personal way. 

First place goes to Colm O’Neill. Colm’s Health & Safety Hero Story:

“It is with great pride that we nominate Colm O’Neil for the Health and Safety Hero Award. Colm’s quick thinking and bravery recently prevented a potential tragic incident, showcasing his caring and compassionate nature and his commitment to safety both on and off the job.

On the morning of November 15 2023, while working off-track at Old Tandragee Station, Colm noticed a distressed individual sitting on the bridge over the live rail track. Colm immediately recognised the potential danger, and immediately stopped his work and contacted his manager to inform them of the situation. Adman Management contacted the Railway Client who then immediately placed the trains on ‘caution’. Colm simultaneously notified the emergency services for assistance to ensure the individual would receive the professional help they needed.

Colm carefully assessed the situation and approached the individual safely and slowly to avoid alarming them. He approached with empathy, sat down beside them and proceeded to have a chat and offer help.

Despite the urgency of the situation, Colm maintained a calm demeanour, which was crucial in preventing the individual from panicking. Colm engaged the individual in conversation, using a gentle and reassuring tone. He introduced himself and expressed genuine concern for the individual's well-being. Through his compassionate approach, Colm managed to build a rapport quickly, which was instrumental in de-escalating the situation.

As the individual began to respond, Colm continued to talk to him and provide reassurance until the emergency services arrived. Throughout this interaction, Colm ensured that the individual felt heard and supported, which played a key role in reassuring them. Colm stayed with the individual until the arrival of the emergency responders, providing comfort and reassurance.

Thankfully the individual was safely escorted off the bridge to a safe place. Colm’s prompt actions, effective communication, and compassionate approach not only saved this individuals life, in addition, potentially prevented the devastating impact and potential trauma to train drivers and passengers, which sets a powerful example for his peers.”

The judges particularly recognised that Colm is a true unsung hero of health and safety. His concern for others and initiative in taking action to directly intervene to prevent unimaginable tragedy and trauma for so many was remarkable. His action, leading by example in a time of need, shows a commitment to health and safety at all times and provides an example for others to follow.  

For more information on the SGUK Awards, visit www.safetygroupsuk.org.uk