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USHA Annual Awards

USHA Achievement Awards

Every year USHA celebrates and recognises the hard work and dedication of our peers in the sector through the USHA achievement awards show. We are inviting nominations from individuals, teams, departments or institutions who have demonstrated inspirational, innovative and progressive work that has led to sustained improvements in the safety, health and wellbeing of our staff, and students. This can be one-off projects, changes to work activities and ongoing initiatives.

Entries for the 2026 Awards will be welcome from Spring 2026 and formally announced nearer the time.

You will find the 2025, and previous winners below.

Past Award Winners

Health and Safety Award

MIT’s Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) Office developed a comprehensive incident management system, culminating in a real-time Departmental Dashboard that transformed safety practices across the Institute.

Previously, fragmented reporting hindered collaboration and trend analysis. The new platform, built on the “Find and Fix” framework, standardizes incident reporting, root cause analysis, and corrective actions, with structured data and multimedia documentation. The dashboard provides live insights into incidents, inspections, training, and hazards, enabling proactive safety management.

Now used Institute-wide, it supports consistent workflows and data-driven decision-making. The system has elevated safety discussions at leadership levels and continues to evolve, with future plans for predictive analytics and broader integration. MIT’s approach has attracted global interest, with presentations at CSHEMA leading to engagement from U.S. Ivy League and U.K. universities exploring adoption.

The initiative has redefined safety as a shared, visible priority, strengthening compliance, accountability, and collaboration across MIT and beyond.

The Health and Safety Service (HSS) team at the University developed a comprehensive approach to risk management by leveraging SharePoint and Power BI. This system generates interactive, real-time graphical representations of health and safety exposures, providing a clear, up-to-date view of risks across the institution.

A key part of this initiative was the creation of local Risk Management and Risk Assessment Registers (RMRAR). These registers allow each department, college, or service to identify which of the 57 institutional health and safety risk areas are applicable to their specific operations, and to implement controls accordingly. The approach empowers departments to take ownership of their own risks, ensuring that safety measures are tailored to their unique needs while still aligning with the institution’s broader health and safety framework.

By integrating these tools, the HSS team streamlined the risk management process, improved accessibility to critical safety data, and fostered a culture of proactive risk control throughout the university. The use of real-time data and user-friendly dashboards has not only enhanced decision-making but also increased the efficiency and effectiveness of the overall risk management system.

See the submission draft

The University of Reading’s Corporate Emergency Exercise Programme, led by Brett Dyson, has set a high standard for emergency preparedness. Since its inception in 2021, this biannual programme has significantly enhanced the university’s emergency response capabilities through meticulously planned tabletop exercises that bring together staff from various departments. The programme has not only improved the institution’s readiness for high-impact, low-likelihood events but also fostered a culture of continuous learning and collaboration across the university. Brett’s initiative has been instrumental in identifying vulnerabilities, raising awareness, and driving organizational improvements, culminating in comprehensive post-exercise reports that outline key recommendations for enhancing safety and preparedness.

 

See the submission draft.

Olga initiated a glove recycling scheme, overcoming supply chain and academic resistance, which received positive feedback. Additionally, she introduced a new aqueous waste stream, enhancing laboratory safety by preventing improper waste disposal. Her leadership in publishing a chemical inventory management article has fostered collaboration and shared expertise with other institutions. Olga’s dedication and innovative solutions have left a lasting, positive impact on the health and safety culture at Imperial College London.

 

Please see the submission draft with complimentary information and contact Faculty of Natural Sciences Safety team via [email protected]

Fire Safety Award

The University of Exeter developed a robust, outcome-focused fire safety monitoring and assurance process to manage compliance across its large, complex estate of 180 buildings.

Through the Fire Safety Implementation Group (FSIG), the university introduced a performance framework with 70 key fire safety metrics, annual improvement plans, and regular reporting. This approach enabled clear oversight, risk-based prioritisation, and continuous improvement. Key achievements include a significant increase in compliance (from 38% to 57% of KPIs fully met in one year), a streamlined Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) programme with 100% compliance, and enhanced support for Persons in Charge (PiC) through training, guidance, and digital tools.

Monthly reviews, clear action plans, and collaboration across Estates, Accommodation, and Technical Services have driven progress. The process has been validated by internal and external audits, with risk ratings improving from high to low. The university’s model demonstrates effective leadership, partnership, and a sustainable culture of fire safety.

University Safety Services at the University of East Anglia introduced an innovative zoning system to tackle fire safety challenges in a hybrid working environment. This system strategically identified Fire Warden stations and provided clear instructions and safety measures to ensure all areas were covered, whether staff were on-site or working remotely.

The zoning approach not only addressed the logistical difficulties of hybrid working but also enhanced fire safety preparedness by ensuring Fire Wardens had clear responsibilities and were equipped with the right tools. The initiative led to improved clarity in safety protocols and strengthened the overall fire safety culture across the university.

See the submission draft

Iain Hamilton and Andrew Smith from Coventry University have spearheaded a transformative initiative in fire safety across the university’s estate. Undertaking comprehensive surveys in 2020 and 2023, they identified critical areas for improvement in fire doors, electrical systems, fire alarms, and fire dampers, focusing particularly on enhancing safety in student accommodation and a specific basement teaching area. Their proactive approach anticipated the 2022 and 2023 fire safety legislation, securing funding and engaging trusted contractors to swiftly implement a robust remedial programme integrated with enhanced CAFM systems. This initiative not only ensures immediate safety improvements but also sets a precedent for sustainable building safety practices at Coventry University.

 

See the submission draft

 progressive approach to fire safety at the university emphasises engagement and a holistic approach to disabled emergency egress. This approach is rooted in regular consultations among all university stakeholders, fostering a genuine partnership based on trust, respect, and cooperation. The establishment of a Fire Board in 2018, chaired by the Director of Estates, marked a significant shift, enabling improved tracking of fire safety actions and fostering collaboration across departments. Efforts include producing annual fire safety reports and feedback mechanisms to drive continuous improvement. In 2021, a focus on enhancing disabled emergency egress was implemented through a comprehensive workshop that brought together various university departments and student representatives. This initiative aimed to streamline Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) and General Emergency Evacuation Plans (GEEPs), ensuring a coordinated and inclusive approach. Innovative steps, such as producing evacuation route videos and training community first aiders, underscore a commitment to safety. Leadership and collaboration have been key, with strong support from the Director of Estates and active engagement from all stakeholders, paving the way for ongoing improvements and sustainable safety practices.

Health and Wellbeing Award

Ulster University’s Work Well Programme is a strategic, data-informed initiative designed to improve staff wellbeing through proactive, localised action. Developed in response to staff feedback from the Valuing Voices survey and aligned with sector best practice (USHA and HSE guidance), the programme uses validated tools like the Stress Indicator Tool and structured focus groups to identify stressors and co-create tailored action plans.

Rolled out in 2024/25, it engaged 24 departments, with a 61% survey response rate and 37 focus groups held. The programme is supported by senior leadership, trade unions, and a dedicated working group, ensuring institutional commitment and oversight. Its innovative, team-owned approach replaces top-down planning, fostering autonomy and accountability. Resources are shared via a dedicated SharePoint site, and Action Planning Clinics promote peer learning. With 70% of staff reporting improved wellbeing, the programme is now embedded in a 24-month cycle, driving sustainable cultural change and continuous improvement across the university.

The workshops were specifically tailored to foster open communication and understanding about stress, its triggers, and its impact on both individuals and teams. By integrating the unique perspectives of HR, which provided policy and people management insight, with Occupational Health’s focus on individual wellbeing, and Health & Safety’s expertise in risk assessment and mitigation, the initiative ensured a comprehensive approach to tackling this critical issue.

A key component of the workshops was equipping staff and managers with practical tools and techniques to recognise early signs of stress, manage workloads more effectively, and create an environment where concerns could be raised and addressed in a supportive manner. This was complemented by guidance on escalation routes and the resources available for ongoing support, thereby embedding a culture of care and collaboration.

Feedback from participants highlighted not only the immediate impact of the workshops in improving awareness and confidence in addressing stress but also the longer-term potential for fostering a more resilient and supportive workplace culture.

This proactive and interdisciplinary approach sets a benchmark for addressing work-related stress and demonstrates the value of collaboration in achieving meaningful outcomes for staff wellbeing.

See the submission draft

After the pandemic, the Central Health and Safety team at Derby University undertook a transformative initiative to rejuvenate health, safety, and wellbeing across the institution. They established a proactive Health, Safety, and Wellbeing Charter spanning every school, college, and department, with a particular emphasis on staff wellbeing. Collaborating with the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion team, they developed a dedicated Wellbeing Charter, fostering a ‘Safe Place’ and ‘Safe People’ approach. By integrating wellbeing into the university’s ethos and operations, they promoted inclusivity, personal growth, and mental health support through initiatives like the Employee Assistance Program and Mental Health at Work commitment. This holistic framework, driven by seven wellbeing pillars, ensures sustainable improvements in staff satisfaction, physical health, and environmental stewardship. Through effective leadership and ongoing feedback mechanisms, Wellbeing at Derby has become integral to creating a psychologically safe and purpose-driven workplace environment.

 

See the full submission.

Cardiff University achieved compliance with ISO 45003, demonstrating its commitment to integrating psychological health into its existing safety management system. This initiative, led by the Health, Safety and Staff Wellbeing team, received backing from the University Executive Board. The project aligns with growing recognition of mental health’s importance in the workplace, reinforced by influential reports such as the Thriving at Work review. Compliance with ISO 45003 not only enhances staff wellbeing but also underscores Cardiff University’s dedication to fostering a safe, supportive, and productive environment for all employees. Cardiff University is happy to share its strategy, reports, and wellbeing calendar.

 

Please see the submission with complimentry information and contact [email protected] for more information.

Infrastructure and Facility Safety Award

The University of Sussex overhauled its outdated fire alarm monitoring system to address critical safety and compliance issues across its large, dispersed estate. The Health and Safety and Estates teams collaborated to implement a bespoke, BS 5839-compliant system that provides real-time fault alerts, auto-dials emergency services if security fails to respond within 10 minutes and integrates with a campus-wide pager system for PEEP users.

On launch, 49 panels were found in fault—some for over six months. Now, faults are typically resolved within 48 hours. The system enables remote monitoring, dynamic risk assessment, and improved response coordination. It also supports disabled toilet alarm monitoring and off-campus property oversight. Developed in partnership with external experts, the solution ‘Gen2’ was tailored to the university’s needs and has restored confidence in fire safety management. The project exemplifies innovation, sustainability, and cross-functional collaboration, significantly enhancing safety, compliance, and operational efficiency.

Vincent Soh Beng Wee, Poon Yoke Yin, Rachel Wu Xiaoqin, and Christopher Seow from Nanyang Technological University (NTU) were recognised for their development of the Hazard Notification System (HNS), a centralised online platform for creating and managing laboratory signage. The system ensures consistent, up-to-date safety information across the university, addressing hazards such as chemicals, machinery, and biological agents.

Before HNS, creating lab signage was a manual process that led to inconsistencies. The HNS streamlines this by allowing staff to digitally generate standardised hazard signs, making it easier to update and maintain safety information. The system’s centralised design enables access across all departments, ensuring that signage meets safety standards and is easily updated when hazards change.

The HNS integrates with NTU’s broader safety infrastructure, including risk assessments and incident reporting, making it a comprehensive tool for improving laboratory safety. The system has been well-received for its ease of use and ability to improve safety awareness and compliance, reducing the likelihood of accidents and enhancing communication within the university.

See the submission draft

Emergency Response and Crisis Management Award

The University of Lancashire has strengthened its 24/7 on-call incident response structure by standardising training across all teams. Previously, only Operational and Tactical Emergency Management rotas received consistent training, creating knowledge gaps. A new programme now ensures all on-call staff receive baseline incident management training, followed by annual sessions to build confidence and collaboration. Over 65 staff were trained in three months, improving cross-team coordination and increasing incident reporting.

Training includes scenario-based exercises, decision logging, and best-practice models like JESIP, helping responders understand escalation protocols and external agency collaboration. Feedback is used to shape future sessions. Additionally, a mandatory security and emergency training course was introduced for all staff, addressing gaps in awareness.

Covering topics like counter-terrorism guidance and emergency contacts, the 30-minute course has a 97% completion rate and is renewed biennially. Staff report increased confidence and vigilance, contributing to a safer, more resilient university community.

Stefan Hoyle, Head of Health and Safety at Imperial College London, developed the Hazardous Area Emergency Contact App to improve emergency response capabilities. The app provides quick, secure access to vital contact information and hazard details through a QR code system placed in hazardous areas.

Users can scan the QR code to instantly view emergency contacts, hazard information, and safety protocols. The app allows real-time updates to ensure information remains current, improving response times and reducing reliance on outdated data.

The app has been praised for its simplicity and effectiveness in ensuring quick access to critical safety information, enhancing emergency procedures and overall safety in hazardous environments.

 

See the submission draft

Recipients of USHA Certificate of Achievement

We extend our gratitude to all the nominees for their outstanding contributions. The runners-up are listed below:

2025:

University of Sussex for their ‘Consultation and collaboration to revise a useable guidance document for carrying out DSEAR risk assessments.

Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan Team led by Graham Gray from the University of Sussex for their ‘enhancing of PEEPs’ project.

Health and Wellbeing Team from the University of Leeds for their ‘Whole-University approach to supporting and promoting staff health and wellbeing at Leeds’.

A 3-way tie between:

Health and Safety Team at Manchester Metropolitan University for their ‘3rd Line of Defense Inspection Programme’.

Christina Rozario, Gerald Tan, Rachel Wu Xiaoqin and Christopher Seow at Nanyang Technological University for their ‘“AED CPR+”: Enhancing Compliance and Productivity in NTU AED Management IT System’.

Sini Mathew, Christine Lim, Rachel Wu Xiaoqin and Christopher Seow at Nanyang Technological University for their ‘Biosafety Application System (BAS): A Digital Transformation in Biological Risk Governance at NTU’.

Incident Management Team led by Lauren Buchanan from the University of Derby for their ‘Incident Management Team Emergency Response Framework Review’.

2024:

We extend our gratitude to all the nominees for their outstanding contributions. The runners-up are (in no specific order):

Health and Safety Team, Manchester Metropolitan University, led by Stuart Pennington, for their development of health and safety lead and lag indicators.

Office of Health and Safety, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, for their Safety CHAT Programme, promoting culture of safety by involving management and stakeholders in identifying risks, sharing knowledge, and implementing targeted improvements.

Edward Pariwono, Manager, Office of Health and Safety, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, for introducing an automated e-tool for tracking audit findings.

Labcup Implementation Team at Aston University, led by Colin Lambert, for centralising chemical management.

Paul Walker, University Compliance Engineer, Loughborough University, for improving the University’s permit to work system, replacing 9 separate permits and 4 request forms with a single overarching system.

Anthony Marchant, Schools Health and Safety Advisor, London Metropolitan University, for digitalising and automating essential H&S operations, including new travel approval process which was showcased to the members of Travel SIG in Spring this year.

Workplace Health and Safety Team, led by Monica Kanwar, University of York, for delivering a forward-looking holistic H&S Framework.

Fire Safety Team (James Holt) and CAD Team (Hannah Watts) from Loughborough University for developing fire strategy drawings to support fire safety equipment maintenance and future projects.e

Sarah Van Zoelen, Occupational Health Manager at Loughborough University, for introducing a proactive programme to identify and manage potential causes of stress in senior leadershipc

Gavin Clarke, Deputy Head of H&S from London Metropolitan University for achieving full compliance with Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs), comprehensive Fire Risk Assessments, and Fire Warden training programs.

Central Health, Safety and Wellbeing Team led by Adam Gomez at the University of Derby for their review of fire safety processes in the context of a hybrid work model.

Business Resilience Team led by Amy Smart from Durham University for their BCP exercise programme, including a case study on managing an invasive disease with Public Health and the UK Health Security Agency.