Ben Hutchinson
Ben Hutchinson is a Safety Science PhD candidate and HSE Leader whose research challenges conventional approaches to workplace safety. Currently the Rail Safety Leader at Laing O'Rourke, Ben brings a unique perspective combining academic rigor with extensive industry experience. His research examines how safety systems can sometimes create a false sense of security while potentially increasing risk. A qualified National HSEQ Manager and Fatigue Specialist, Ben's work spans construction, rail, mining, and major hazard facilities.
His published works include critical examinations of safety audits and planning in safety systems. With a background that includes roles as a Combat Engineer in the Australian Army and Exercise Physiologist, Ben advocates for understanding how real work occurs rather than relying on idealized versions of safety procedures. He focuses on adaptive safety principles, including Resilience Engineering, Human Factors, and Safety-II approaches.