A Day in the Life of a Solo-Entrepreneur: Navigating EHS Compliance Consulting

Running Rubicon EHS (an Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) regulatory compliance consulting company) as a solo-entrepreneur is a balancing act that blends expertise, adaptability, and an unrelenting drive for excellence. Here’s a glimpse into what a typical day might look like:

7:00 AM: Set the Tone for the Day/Administrative Tasks

Prioritization is key: client meetings, report deadlines, and catching up on regulatory updates are all on the agenda. Solo-entrepreneurship also means handling invoices, scheduling, and marketing. These tasks are crucial for keeping the business running smoothly and maintaining a steady flow of clients.

8:00 AM: Client Check-Ins and Strategy Planning

The morning is dedicated to client interactions. Whether it’s discussing a new safety program for a manufacturing plant or reviewing a recent audit’s findings, the goal is to provide actionable insights tailored to each client’s needs. These conversations often spark ideas for improving processes or addressing gaps in compliance.

10:00 AM: Site Visits and Audits

Being in the field is a regular part of the job. A site visit might involve evaluating a facility’s lockout/tagout program or assessing hazardous waste storage practices. Observing operations firsthand ensures recommendations are practical and aligned with regulatory standards.

12:00 PM: Quick Lunch and Networking

Lunch is often a working affair, catching up on industry news or connecting with other professionals in the field. Networking is crucial not just for business growth but for staying informed about emerging trends and regulatory changes.

1:00 PM: Diving Into Documentation

Afternoons are spent drafting and revising documents—compliance reports, training materials, or program templates. Attention to detail is critical; these deliverables must meet client needs and align with OSHA, EPA, or state-specific requirements.

5:00 PM: Professional Development

Continuous learning is non-negotiable in the EHS space. This time is set aside for webinars, reading new regulations, or exploring tools that can streamline compliance processes. Staying ahead of the curve ensures clients get the most up-to-date advice.

7:00 PM: Wrapping Up

The day winds down with a final review of emails and tomorrow’s agenda. Reflecting on the day’s achievements helps maintain momentum and identify opportunities for improvement.

Conclusion

The life of a solo-entrepreneur in EHS compliance consulting is demanding but deeply rewarding. Each day offers a chance to make a tangible impact on workplace safety, environmental stewardship, and regulatory adherence. It’s a role that requires both technical expertise and entrepreneurial grit—and one that brings immense satisfaction in helping businesses thrive safely and responsibly.