IOSH
Arjun Nair
Why OSH is a great career for a young person
Arjun Nair has achieved a great deal since being advised to pursue a career in occupational safety and health (OSH) seven years ago.
He has gained valuable experience by working full-time, deepened his knowledge through part-time study and broadened his horizons by joining IOSH.
Now 27, Arjun has landed an OSH role with one of the world’s largest investment management companies.
“It’s been hectic but worth it,” he said.
Born and brought up in Singapore, Arjun was working as a driver for a construction company when he was approached by the safety officer.
“He told me OSH would be a really great career for a young person who was looking for something more sustainable to support their family.”
Arjun started work on various projects in the energy and construction industry before securing a place on the BSc (Hons) in Safety, Health and Environmental Management offered by Leeds Beckett University and delivered by the Management Development Institute of Singapore.
He also chose to join IOSH as a Student Member to “gain insights into OSH globally”.
“I didn’t want to limit my knowledge to local environments,” he said. “I found the IOSH webinars very helpful and interesting.”
His final year at university coincided with the Covid-19 pandemic, although fortunately this didn’t impact his learning. “I was working from home and found this more productive,” he said.
One of Arjun’s academic highlights was completing his dissertation on workers’ exposure to occupational noise in the oil and gas industry. As he was working on one of the largest development projects in Asia at the time, he was able to conduct his study here.
Upon graduation, Arjun progressed his IOSH membership. “Being a Certified Member will help me in my career and gives recognition as a qualified safety professional,” he said. “It definitely played a part in me landing my current role.”
A Health and Safety Officer covering the Asia-Pacific region, Arjun is also responsible for ensuring all applicable OSH laws and requirements are being complied with. Plus, he supports the development, implementation and monitoring of OSH programmes globally.
To help him achieve his career ambitions to reach management level, Arjun has now embarked on an MSc in Safety, Health and Environment Technology at the National University of Singapore. He also continues to take advantage of IOSH member benefits and is working towards Chartered status.
“I like the webinars most, as I get to be exposed to various OSH cultures and environments globally without the need to travel to that location to experience it,” said Arjun.
Having found the ideal occupation, Arjun advises anyone thinking about a career in OSH to “just go for it”.
“And become a member of IOSH,” he added, “as they have many resources, mentors and friends who are willing to guide you on your journey.”