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

Safety on a worksite is no coincidence. It is the result of conscious decisions, daily inspections, and genuine commitment. As a prevention advisor, I operate at the intersection of concrete and policy, balancing the human dimension with regulatory requirements.

My mission? To ensure that everyone returns home safely at the end of the day.

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

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07:00 – Before the first shovel hits the ground

My day does not begin in the office, but on-site. While the sun is still rising, I verify that everything is in place for a safe start to the day. Are the required RAMS (Risk Assessment and Method Statement) documents available and approved? Only then is a work permit issued. This is not paperwork for the sake of paperwork, but a practical tool that defines how the work will be carried out and, above all, how it can be done safely.

I head onto the site, hard hat on, safety glasses on, high-visibility vest secured, and steel-toe boots laced up. This is where I feel most at home.

08:30 – Site inspection: where details save lives

With a critical eye, I walk around the site. Are the scaffolds stable? Is the correct fall protection being used? Is the work area properly cordoned off? I pay attention not only to visible risks, but also to attitude, behaviour, and workload. Everything I observe is carefully documented in my report.

I do not believe in pointing fingers, but in open dialogue. When I notice something that needs to be addressed, I speak to the person involved directly.

Safety is a team effort.

10:00 – Constructive meeting with site management

Safety is something we create together. During discussions with site management, we review what is going well, but more importantly, where improvements can be made. We ask questions:

  • 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 are conversations that go far beyond simply complying with legal requirements. This is where prevention truly becomes effective.

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

When I see that an employer is falling short of their responsibilities, I address it. Not because I want to be difficult, but because it is my job.

Far too often, safety is still regarded as a cost. I see it differently. A good prevention advisor is not an expense, but 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 do not escape my attention either. Are their documents in order? Are the correct working methods being followed? Do their employees have the appropriate training and the right equipment to carry out their tasks safely?

Everyone working on our site is expected to uphold the same standards. Safety does not stop at the main contractor’s front 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 and structured report. No vague language or unnecessary complexity, just clear conclusions and concrete action points.

In addition, I prepare the RAMS for the following day. Every type of work, from welding to working at height, requires a different risk assessment. By thinking ahead, we embed safety before the work even begins.

17:00 – More than a job: a belief

My day may be over, but my work goes beyond the clock. I believe in what I do.

A good prevention advisor is more than a legal requirement; they are someone who proactively invests in people, processes, and reputation.

Every day, I stand for:

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

Conclusion

I do not see myself as a cost, but as an essential link in an organisation that is willing to invest in its greatest asset: its people.

Because, ultimately, we all want the same thing: to return home safely at the end of the day.

Our experienced consultants have a proven track record across a wide range of industries, from SMEs to large enterprises. We understand that no two organisations are alike, which is why we provide tailored solutions that address the specific needs of your business. By partnering with us, you not only ensure compliance with legal requirements, but above all, create a safe and healthy working environment where your employees can thrive.

Contact us today and discover how we can support you in building an effective and sustainable prevention policy. Feel free to get in touch with us for a no-obligation consultation.

Because with Prevom, you are always one step ahead of risks and hazards.

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