Why Trade Associations Are More Relevant Than Ever

September 12, 2025

In today’s competitive, highly regulated, and volatile construction environment, it can be tempting to ask what’s the point of joining a trade association? In fact, it’s a question I’m often asked within my role as the Chair of the British Drilling Association (BDA), and I think it’s a question worth asking.

I appreciate that for many businesses, especially SMEs, the day-to-day pressures of securing work, meeting compliance requirements, and managing costs leave little time for what might be seen as “optional extras.” But organisations such as the BDA are far from optional. In fact, they’re more relevant, more valuable, and more vital now than at any point in recent memory.

A Collective Voice

Individually, contractors, suppliers, and consultants can raise concerns, but united under the BDA banner, the industry has a collective voice that policymakers, regulators, and clients cannot ignore. Through engagement, the BDA ensures that drilling and geotechnical interests are represented in national discussions on infrastructure, health and safety, training, and standards.

Driving Safety and Standards

The BDA has long been recognised as the benchmark for health, safety, and technical quality in land drilling. Its BDA Audit, which is widely respected across the industry, provides clients and contractors alike with assurance that operatives and companies are competent, compliant, and aligned with best practice. In an industry where risk is ever-present, this independent standard isn’t just helpful it’s essential.

Membership also brings access to safety manuals, guidance documents, and technical resources that support compliance and improve day-to-day site practice.

Tangible Member Benefits

Of course, joining isn’t just about ideals, it’s also about practical advantages. BDA members enjoy:

• Discounted insurance and negotiated benefits that reduce business overheads
• Preferential rates for training, certification, and industry events
• Free resources such as safety manuals and monthly newsletters
• Networking (social too) opportunities with contractors, clients, and suppliers across the sector
• Access to webinars and training events

These are not token gestures thought, they’re measurable savings and competitive advantages that make a tangible difference.

Resource and Support When You Need It

From various sub-committees and working groups, to advice on legislation and compliance, the BDA offers a breadth of expertise that no individual company could maintain on its own. Whether it’s guidance on new regulation, clarity on emerging standards, or simply the reassurance of being part of a trusted professional community, membership provides resources that can’t be found elsewhere.

Relevant, Today and Tomorrow

The challenges facing our industry aren’t going away. If anything, they’re intensifying. That’s why belonging to a trade association like the BDA isn’t just a badge of credibility, it’s a practical tool for survival and success.

The BDA is more than an association. It’s a community, a resource, a benchmark, and a voice. In short, it’s exactly what the industry needs, and exactly what forward-thinking businesses should want to be part of.

Why wait?

Be part of something bigger. Strengthen your business, your people, and your voice.
Find out more here – https://www.britishdrillingassociation.co.uk/about-us/

Author: Mark Toye, Chair, British Drilling Association