Introducing Damon Simms: Vulcan’s New UK Group Health & Safety Manager

We’re excited to welcome Damon, our new UK Group Health & Safety Manager at Vulcan Refractories. With a wealth of experience in health and safety across various sectors, Damon brings invaluable expertise to our team. We sat down with him to discuss his journey, approach to health and safety, and his vision for enhancing Vulcan’s safety culture.

Can you tell us a bit about your background and what sparked your interest in health and safety?

I began my management journey in 2007, initially overseeing a multi-million-pound PFI project where I worked closely with local authorities and the NHS. My career expanded into operational management for a prestigious security firm before I transitioned into health and safety in 2014. The shift to the construction industry ignited my passion for health and safety, and since then, I’ve been focused on creating safer work environments for everyone.

How do you think your background prepares you for your new role at Vulcan?

My experience spans health and safety management in high-risk projects across the UK, including demolition, redevelopment, and new builds. This diverse experience allows me to bring effective, practical safety solutions to Vulcan.

Could you share your career journey so far and some key personal experiences that have shaped your approach to health and safety?

I’ve worked on various high-risk projects across the country, including unique challenges like the construction and retracking of roller coasters. These experiences have reinforced the importance of health and safety in all environments, shaping my approach to managing risk.

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve encountered, and how do you plan to address them at Vulcan?

Leading diverse projects across sectors taught me how to manage complex safety challenges. At Vulcan, I plan to engage closely with the team to strengthen our safety culture and ensure everyone’s safety.

What motivates you in your role, and how do you stay focused when faced with challenging situations or projects?

My primary motivation is to ensure that everyone who works or visits Vulcan goes home safely at the end of the day. I view challenges as opportunities to improve, and I am always focused on finding new solutions to make our work environments safer and more efficient for everyone.

What’s the most valuable piece of advice you’ve received during your career, and how has it influenced your approach to managing health and safety?

The best advice I’ve received is, “There are no problems, only solutions.” This mindset has been invaluable, especially in challenging situations. Approaching problems with a solutions-orientated mindset and thinking creatively often yields the most rewarding outcomes.

As you settle into your new role at Vulcan, what excites you the most about working with the team and helping to further enhance the company’s health and safety culture?

I’m excited to get to know the team personally and engage with the workforce. I’ve already felt welcomed and appreciated, and it’s been a pleasure starting to build relationships with everyone. I’m looking forward to enhancing Vulcan’s already strong safety culture by being approachable, transparent, and supportive.

Building a Stronger Safety Culture Together

At Vulcan Refractories, we’re thrilled to have Damon on board. His dedication to health and safety, combined with his extensive experience and practical approach, will undoubtedly help enhance our safety culture and drive continuous improvement. We look forward to the positive impact he will have on the team and our ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards.