A day in the life of a prevention advisor

Building safety

As a prevention advisor, I operate at the intersection of concrete and compliance, between people and policy.

By Twin Van Leeuwen

Site safety is no coincidence. It’s the result of deliberate choices, daily checks, and true commitment. As a prevention advisor, I operate at the intersection of concrete and compliance, between people and policy.

My mission? To make sure everyone gets home safely at the end of the day.

Let me walk you through a typical day in my life.

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07:00 – Before the first shovel hits the ground

My day doesn’t start at the office, but on-site. As the sun rises, I check whether everything is in place for a safe start. Are the correct RAMS (Risk Assessment and Method Statement) available and approved? Only then is a work permit issued. Not paperwork for the sake of it, but a practical tool that defines how we work – and above all: how we work safely.

Helmet on, safety glasses, hi-vis vest and steel-toe boots – I step onto the site. This is where I feel at home.

08:30 – Site inspection: where details save lives

I walk around with a critical eye. Are the scaffolds stable? Is proper fall protection being used? Is the work area well defined? I look beyond the visible risks – I watch for posture, behavior, and work pressure.
Everything I observe is carefully noted in my report.

I don’t believe in finger-pointing. I believe in open dialogue. If I see something that needs to change, I speak up – directly.

Safety is a team effort.

10:00 – Constructive meeting with site management

Safety is a team effort. During our meeting, we discuss what’s going well, but especially what can be improved. We ask ourselves:

  • How can we organize logistics more safely?
  • What can we do to reduce psychosocial stress?
  • Can we make smarter choices in equipment or planning?

These conversations go beyond “what the law says.” This is where effective prevention is born.

11:30 – Responsibility doesn’t end at the gate

If I see an employer falling short in their responsibilities, I raise the issue. Not to be difficult, but because that’s my job.

Too often, safety is still seen as a cost. I see it differently. A good prevention advisor is an investment in:

  • fewer absences due to illness or accidents
  • preventing incidents and delays
  • a strong reputation as a company that cares for its people

13:00 – Subcontractor check-in: are we all aligned?

Subcontractors don’t escape my radar either. Are their documents in order? Are the correct methods being followed? Are their workers trained and properly equipped?

Everyone working on our site must meet the same standards. Safety doesn’t stop at the main contractor’s door.

By thinking ahead, we embed safety before the work even begins.

15:00 – Reporting and looking ahead

Back in the site office, I compile my findings into a clear report. No vague language – just sharp conclusions and actionable steps.

I also prepare the RAMS for the next day. Every task – from welding to working at heights – requires a tailored risk assessment. By thinking ahead, we embed safety before the work even begins.

17:00 – More than a job: a belief

My day is done, but my mission goes beyond the clock. I believe in what I do.

A good prevention advisor isn’t just a legal requirement – it’s someone who proactively invests in people, in processes, and in reputation.

Every day, I stand for:

  • fewer accidents
  • less absenteeism
  • reduced downtime
  • more trust, more engagement, more safety

Conclusion

I don’t see myself as a cost, but as an essential link in a company that dares to invest in its greatest asset: its people.

Because in the end, we all want the same thing: to get home safely in the evening.

Our experienced consultants have a proven track record in various sectors, from SME’s to large companies. We understand that no two businesses are the same and therefore offer tailor-made solutions to suit your organisation’s specific needs. By working with us, you ensure that you comply with legal obligations, but above all that your employees can work in a safe and healthy environment.

Contact us Ctoday to find out how we can support you in building an effective and sustainable prevention policy.

Because with Prevom you’re always one step ahead of risks and hazards.

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