On Tuesday 17 March, a new edition of Safety on Tour took place at TNO, an initiative by Safety&Health@Work. The goal: bringing together safety professionals to share knowledge, inspire each other and discuss current challenges within the field.

After a short introduction, TNO took over the programme with a strong content-driven session on safe working in relation to the asphalt transition. The central question was how the sector is moving towards a climate-neutral future and what this means for safety and health.

During the session, the focus was on the societal challenges within the asphalt sector. The ambition to become climate neutral by 2030 and 2050 requires major changes across the entire chain. Innovation plays a key role in this, but also introduces new risks and challenges in terms of safety and working conditions.

TNO provided insights into the effects of innovations within the asphalt chain and their impact on both the environment and working conditions. The different phases of the sustainability transition were also discussed, as well as how organisations can take concrete steps forward.

The role of the occupational health and safety professional
An important theme was the changing role of the occupational health and safety professional. While traditional risks are largely known, new materials and processes introduce different types of exposure.

Through practical examples and a case study on emissions from innovative binders, participants gained insight into where risks arise and how these can be measured and assessed. The role of Technology Readiness Levels and the importance of market readiness in scaling up innovations were also addressed.

The key message was clear: integrate safety and health as early as possible in the development process. Only then can innovations be implemented safely and successfully.

Tour and networking

The afternoon concluded with a joint lunch, offering plenty of opportunity to exchange experiences. This was followed by a tour of TNO’s Building Innovation Lab, where participants could see innovations up close.

We look back on an inspiring and content-rich session and would like to thank TNO for their hospitality and valuable contribution to this edition of Safety on Tour.

Safety&Health@Work

Safety&Health@Work is the trade fair for anyone who prioritises safe and healthy working. On 7 and 8 October 2026, thousands of safety professionals will gather at Rotterdam Ahoy. There are various opportunities to present your company during this exhibition. Want to know more? Please contact account manager Wouter de Groot via +31 6 51 32 34 01 or by email: [email protected]