At Esseco UK, safety is not just a procedure — it’s part of our culture.
“It’s the foundation on which everything else is built. Safety isn’t just the responsibility of one team — it’s something that every colleague, from operations to management, embraces daily.”
This approach goes beyond compliance with regulations. Safety here means protecting people, sustaining reliable operations, and ensuring that every decision reflects the values of care, precision, and responsibility.
Process Safety and Occupational Health
As a COMAH-regulated site, Esseco UK applies a structured approach that combines process safety and occupational health and safety. This includes:
- Pre-operational reviews and process hazard analyses to assess risks.
- Management of change procedures to ensure every modification is controlled and safe.
- Regular audits and training, keeping both leadership and frontline teams aligned.
“We approach safety from multiple angles,” says Jonathan Robinson, Health, Safety & Environmental Manager.
“From the shop floor to the senior management team, everyone is committed to getting it right.”
Adapting to Real Needs
Safety is not just about systems — it’s about people. A recent example is the introduction of powered respirators in a high-exposure production area.
“Traditional masks weren’t comfortable or suitable for all colleagues, especially during long shifts,” Jonathan explains.
“We invested in powered respirators that not only improve comfort but also respect individual needs — like providing ATEX-certified equipment for those who can’t be clean-shaven for religious reasons.”
This initiative reflects a human-centred approach: adapting equipment and processes to real-world needs, rather than expecting people to adapt to rigid rules.
Sharing and Improving
Continuous improvement is supported by internal safety alerts and environmental bulletins. These tools help share lessons learned, reinforce what works, and ensure procedures evolve based on feedback from the field.
“Motivation and communication are key,” says Jonathan.
“When people feel heard and recognised, they’re more likely to stay engaged and proactive about safety.”
A Track Record Built Day by Day
Esseco UK has achieved over 2,300 days without a reportable accident — a milestone that speaks to the strength of its systems and culture.
“That number is not a finish line — it’s the outcome of daily choices,” Jonathan notes.
“It’s built by leadership that drives the right culture, reliable systems, and people who are committed to doing things properly.”
Looking Ahead
Safety at Esseco UK is a continuous journey.
“We’re not here to say we’re perfect,” Jonathan admits.
“But we’re constantly improving — streamlining systems, training teams, and pushing beyond compliance to make safety something that truly protects and empowers everyone.”
