Health & safety in D&T education
Published 28th April 2026
Today, on World Day for Safety and Health at Work, design and technology teachers are reminded of the importance of embedding safe, confident practice at the heart of practical learning. Barry McGregor, Health & Safety Consultant for the Design & Technology Association, has spent a career demonstrating how strong industry experience can directly strengthen safety culture in schools.
From engineering workshop to classroom standards
Beginning an engineering apprenticeship in the late 1960s, Barry McGregor developed early experience with CAD, CAM and CNC systems at a time when digital manufacturing was still emerging. Alongside technical expertise, this period established a deep appreciation of disciplined workshop practice, risk awareness and the importance of safe systems of work.
When he moved into teaching in 1982, these principles became central to his approach in design and technology. As Head of Faculty in a Technology College, he supported schools in embedding clear safety routines, structured practical planning and consistent expectations for the safe use of tools, machinery and materials. This ensured pupils could engage confidently in practical work while developing responsible habits.
the importance of designing with purpose and precision.
Strengthening safety through innovation and industry links
His work with national CAD in Schools initiatives and CADCAM conferences supported teachers in adopting digital design tools, helping to reduce risk while enhancing capability in the classroom. High-profile projects, including the Starchaser rocket collaboration, demonstrated how careful risk assessment and controlled workshop environments allow pupils to safely engage with ambitious engineering challenges.
International partnerships with organisations such as Honda, including work linked to ASIMO robotics, further reinforced the importance of safety culture when introducing advanced technologies into education.
On World Day for Safety and Health at Work, Barry McGregor’s career highlights a clear message for design and technology teachers: effective practical learning depends on strong safety foundations, enabling pupils to innovate, design and make with confidence.
Teachers can access the PDF version of this article, featured in Practice 2 2025 below and download their digital copy of the magazine here.
