Safety Officer Job Description Template

Use this Safety Officer job description template to advertise the open roles for free using Longlist.io. You can use this template as a starting point, modify the requirements according the needs of your organization or the client you are hiring for.

Job Brief

We are looking for a responsible Safety Officer to facilitate compliance with occupational health and safety (OHS) guidelines. You will provide advice on measures to minimize hazards or unhealthy situations. You will also be on a constant lookout for violations.

The ideal candidate will be a responsible individual who swears by OSH regulations. Your work will be largely focused on prevention so you need to be conscientious and farsighted. The ideal candidate will also be detail-oriented and ready to act in emergencies.

The goal is to establish a safe workplace according to legal standards and foster a culture of attention to health and safety.

Responsibilities

  • Support the development of OHS policies and programs
  • Advise and instruct on various safety-related topics (noise levels, use of machinery etc.)
  • Conduct risk assessment and enforce preventative measures
  • Review existing policies and measures and update according to legislation
  • Initiate and organize OHS training of employees and executives
  • Inspect premises and the work of personnel to identify issues or non-conformity (e.g. not using protective equipment)
  • Oversee installations, maintenance, disposal of substances etc.
  • Stop any unsafe acts or processes that seem dangerous or unhealthy
  • Record and investigate incidents to determine causes and handle worker’s compensation claims
  • Prepare reports on occurrences and provide statistical information to upper management

Requirements

  • Proven experience as safety officer
  • In depth knowledge of legislation (e.g. OSHA/EPA) and procedures
  • Knowledge of potentially hazardous materials or practices
  • Experience in writing reports and policies for health and safety
  • Familiarity with conducting data analysis and reporting statistics
  • Proficient in MS Office; Working knowledge of safety management information systems is a plus
  • Outstanding organizational skills
  • Diligent with great attention to detail
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to present and explain health and safety topics
  • BSc/BA in safety management, engineering or relevant field is preferred
  • Certificate in occupational health and safety

What does Safety Officer do?

A Safety Officer is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of employees, customers, and visitors within a given organization. On a day-to-day basis, their responsibilities may include:

  1. Conducting safety inspections: Inspecting work areas, machinery, equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations and standards. Identifying and addressing any potential hazards or risks.

  2. Developing and implementing safety policies and procedures: Creating and updating safety guidelines, protocols, and operating procedures to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.

  3. Training and educating employees: Providing safety training sessions to employees and organizing workshops or seminars to educate them on safety protocols, emergency procedures, and the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

  4. Investigating accidents and incidents: Conducting investigations into accidents, near-misses, or incidents that resulted in injuries or property damage. Identifying the cause, gathering evidence, and recommending corrective actions to prevent future occurrences.

  5. Monitoring safety performance: Regularly reviewing safety metrics and records to identify trends, areas of improvement, and potential safety concerns. Analyzing data to evaluate the effectiveness of safety programs.

  6. Conducting safety audits: Performing audits of safety procedures, equipment, and facilities to ensure compliance with legal requirements and industry standards.

  7. Collaborating with other departments: Working closely with human resources, management, and other teams to ensure that safety measures are integrated into all aspects of the organization's operations.

  8. Maintaining safety documentation: Keeping accurate records of safety inspections, training sessions, incident reports, safety policies, and procedures. Ensuring that all documentation is up to date and readily accessible.

  9. Staying informed about safety regulations: Monitoring updates and changes to safety regulations, codes, and standards and ensuring that the organization remains compliant.

  10. Continuous improvement: Continuously seeking opportunities to enhance safety practices and promote a culture of safety within the organization. Identifying areas for improvement and implementing changes accordingly.

It is important to note that specific tasks may vary depending on the industry, size of the organization, and the nature of the work being performed.