The Health & Safety Advisor at B&Q plays a critical role in ensuring the well-being of both employees and customers. This position involves implementing and monitoring health and safety protocols in line with legal regulations and company policy. From conducting regular risk assessments to leading safety training initiatives, this role ensures a safe retail environment that protects people and supports business success.
Job Description Overview:
B&Q Health & Safety Advisors are responsible for:
Ensuring compliance with health & safety legislation
Conducting audits and inspections across store sites
Investigating incidents and implementing preventative measures
Advising management on safe work practices and policies
Creating training materials and delivering staff education sessions
Salary Expectation:
The average salary for a B&Q Health & Safety Advisor in the UK typically ranges between £30,000 and £38,000 per annum, depending on experience and location, with potential for performance-based bonuses.
Top 20 B&Q Health & Safety Advisor Interview Questions and Answers
1. Tell us about your experience with health and safety management.
I have over 5 years of experience in health and safety roles, including retail environments. I’ve conducted risk assessments, led training sessions, and worked with cross-functional teams to reduce incident rates by 35% in my previous role.
2. Why do you want to work at B&Q as a Health & Safety Advisor?
B&Q is a respected name in retail, known for its commitment to sustainability and safety. I admire the brand’s culture and am excited to contribute to a company that values proactive safety measures and team collaboration.
3. How do you stay up to date with health and safety regulations?
I regularly follow updates from the HSE (Health and Safety Executive), attend webinars, and complete CPD-certified courses. I also participate in IOSH community forums for industry insight.
4. Describe a time you identified a serious safety hazard.
At a previous retail store, I noticed improperly stored ladders creating a trip hazard. I intervened immediately, reported it, and revised the storage policy, which was rolled out across multiple locations.
5. What steps do you take to conduct a risk assessment?
I start by identifying hazards, evaluating the level of risk, consulting with staff, and then implementing appropriate controls. I also ensure documentation is updated and reviewed periodically.
6. How would you handle an employee not complying with safety procedures?
I’d first have a private discussion to understand their reasoning. Then, I’d provide coaching or retraining if necessary and ensure clear documentation. Consistent non-compliance would be escalated appropriately.
7. What safety training have you delivered in the past?
I’ve delivered fire safety drills, manual handling training, and induction programs for new hires. I tailor each session to the audience to ensure engagement and retention.
8. How do you ensure safety protocols are followed in a busy retail environment?
I maintain visibility on the floor, foster a safety-first culture, and use signage and regular briefings. I also involve department heads in reinforcing safe practices.
9. Have you ever dealt with a workplace injury? What did you do?
Yes, an employee tripped over a loose mat. I ensured they received medical help, documented the incident, conducted an investigation, and implemented a corrective action plan.
10. How do you handle stress or pressure in emergency situations?
I remain calm and follow the established emergency procedures. Clear communication is key. I ensure others are safe first, then address the situation step-by-step.
11. How would you perform a site inspection at a B&Q store?
I’d use a checklist tailored to the specific store layout, checking storage areas, fire exits, signage, PPE usage, and employee behavior. I’d follow up with a detailed report and recommendations.
12. What software or systems do you use for reporting and compliance?
I’ve used systems like SHE Assure and iAuditor for incident reporting and inspection tracking. I’m also proficient in Excel and PowerPoint for reporting metrics and trends.
13. How do you promote a positive safety culture among staff?
I believe in leading by example, recognizing good practices, involving staff in solutions, and using regular communication to reinforce safety values.
14. How do you manage competing priorities, like audits vs. training?
I prioritize based on risk level and deadlines. If needed, I delegate training or reschedule audits strategically, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
15. How would you respond if senior management pushed back on a recommendation?
I’d present data-driven evidence to support my recommendation, aligning it with business impact. I’m open to discussion but always prioritize safety integrity.
16. What’s your approach to investigating an incident?
Secure the scene, interview witnesses, review CCTV (if available), collect physical evidence, and compile a thorough report including root cause and corrective action.
17. What KPIs would you use to measure safety performance?
Lost Time Injury Rate (LTIR), incident frequency, audit completion rates, training compliance, and near-miss reporting trends.
18. How do you handle confidential information, like investigation results?
I treat all sensitive data with strict confidentiality, following GDPR guidelines and internal policy, ensuring only authorized personnel have access.
19. What do you think are the biggest safety challenges in retail?
Slips, trips, manual handling injuries, and public safety are top concerns. High staff turnover can also impact training retention, which is why consistent onboarding is vital.
20. What makes you the best candidate for this Health & Safety Advisor role?
I bring practical experience, up-to-date knowledge, and a proactive mindset. My past results show that I can drive measurable safety improvements, and I genuinely care about the wellbeing of teams.
Final Interview Coaching Tips for Success
Research B&Q thoroughly – understand their values, culture, and recent initiatives.
Use STAR format (Situation, Task, Action, Result) when answering competency-based questions.
Dress smartly and arrive early, whether it’s in-person or virtual.
Bring copies of certifications or training records to show credibility.
Practice your answers aloud – confidence grows with repetition.
Ask questions at the end – about training opportunities, team structure, or future safety initiatives.
Remember, interviewers want to know not just what you’ve done, but how you think. Be honest, stay calm, and let your passion for safety and people shine through.
