Construction Leaders on Turning Safety into a Competitive Advantage

29 Apr 2026
The Knowledge Exchange Theatre
The Knowledge Exchange Theatre

In UK construction, workplace injuries and work-related ill health lead to 2.2 million working days lost every year, costing the sector around £1.4 billion annually. In times of economic uncertainty, the challenge for construction isn’t whether to invest in safety – it’s how to make it a critical enabler of operational and financial performance. In this panel, EcoOnline’s VP of Global Solutions Consulting, Justin Ibbs, will moderate a discussion with senior safety professionals from leading construction organisations on how safety culture drives productivity, operational efficiency, and long-term growth.

The panel will discuss:

  • Programmes they’re introducing to enhance safety culture for today’s workforce
  • Focusing on leading indicators to unlock new aspects of safety effectiveness
  • How connected safety solutions give a holistic view of operations and risk
  • Practical routes to engage workers with safety initiatives
  • The impact of safety and engagement on productivity and retention
  • How they demonstrate the commercial value of safety to the wider business
Attendees will gain concrete examples, metrics, and ideas to position safety as a core driver of performance and profitability – not just a cost of doing business.
Speakers
Justin Ibbs
Justin Ibbs, Vice President, Global Solutions Consulting - EcoOnline
Pat Sheehan
Pat Sheehan, Associate Director SHEQ - Colas Ltd
Ashley Manson
Ashley Manson, Health and Safety Manager - BGEN Group
Steven Poxton
Steven Poxton, Senior HSEQ Manager - Winvic