The physical injury was only part of my story.
I recently joined the team at Biotech4 to deliver my talk, One Choice, One Life: The Importance of Safety and Mental Wellbeing. I shared my experience of a near-fatal workplace accident, the psychological struggles that followed and the support that helped me begin to rebuild my life.
Having spent 20 years working in construction and demolition, I understand the pressures people face at work. I also know how far the consequences of a workplace accident can reach, affecting our wellbeing, relationships and life at home.
The choices we make at work
Before my accident, I reassured myself that it would be okay. Those words have stayed with me.
My talk explores how time pressure, familiarity and confidence can influence our perception of risk. Feeling confident does not always mean we have the training or competence to carry out a task safely.
It also raises questions about the conditions around those decisions. Do people feel able to stop a job? Are concerns listened to? Can someone speak up without worrying about the response?
These are conversations I want people to take back to their own workplaces.
What happens after the visible injuries heal?
For me, the effects continued long after the accident itself. PTSD, anxiety and depression became part of my life, and recognising that I needed support was an important step towards recovery.
I share that experience openly because a colleague can be struggling without it being obvious. Creating space for an honest conversation, listening without judgement and encouraging someone to seek support can matter enormously.
Five-star feedback after the Biotech4 talk
Following the session, Mario De’Cristofano shared this five-star Google review:
“An unbelievably thought provoking & deeply personal story told by Steven amazingly well, which will probably change how I think about not only workplace health & safety, but mental health also. A privilege to hear someone share something so personal & a reminder about how one choice can change the rest of our life.”
Mario De’Cristofano
That means a lot to me. Revisiting those experiences can be difficult, and knowing that the message has made someone reflect on safety and mental wellbeing is why I keep sharing it.
Thank you to Biotech4 for inviting me, and to Mario for such a thoughtful review.
Bring this conversation to your workplace
I deliver workplace safety and mental wellbeing talks across the UK, Ireland and Europe. I also offer one-to-one coaching and support beyond the session.
If you are planning a safety day, wellbeing event or back-to-work talk, get in touch to arrange a call.
One Choice, One Life.