Safety Officer

Job Overview: The Safety Officer in a manufacturing setting is responsible for ensuring the safety and health of all employees within the facility. This role includes implementing safety protocols, conducting inspections, enforcing regulatory compliance, and fostering a culture of safety to prevent accidents and injuries. The Safety Officer will actively work to mitigate risks associated with manufacturing processes and ensure the overall well-being of workers.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Safety Inspections and Audits:

• Conduct regular safety audits and inspections throughout the manufacturing facility, identifying potential hazards and ensuring compliance with safety protocols.
• Assess workstations, equipment, machinery, and general factory conditions to mitigate risks and ensure the safe operation of equipment.

2. Safety Training and Education:

• Develop and conduct safety training programs for new hires, seasonal workers, and ongoing employee education on safety protocols and best practices.
• Organize safety refresher courses on topics like machine operation, ergonomics, emergency procedures, and the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

3. Accident Investigation and Reporting:

• Investigate all accidents, near-misses, and safety incidents to determine causes and recommend corrective actions.
• Prepare detailed reports on incidents and accidents, ensuring compliance with OSHA and other regulatory requirements.
• Monitor the implementation of corrective actions to prevent future occurrences.

4. Compliance with Legal and Regulatory Standards:

• Ensure that all safety procedures comply with local, state, and federal regulations, including OSHA, EPA, and other industry standards.
• Keep abreast of changes in health and safety legislation and ensure the facility's policies are updated accordingly.

5. Risk Assessment and Hazard Control:

• Identify hazards related to the manufacturing processes, including machinery, chemicals, noise, and ergonomics.
• Implement risk control measures such as machine safeguards, ventilation systems, and proper labelling of hazardous materials.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and ensure the use of appropriate PPE.

6. Emergency Procedures and Preparedness:

• Develop and maintain emergency protocols, including fire safety, chemical spills, first aid, and evacuation plans.
• Ensure that emergency exits, alarms, fire extinguishers, and first-aid kits are properly maintained and accessible.
• Conduct emergency drills and ensure all employees are trained on evacuation procedures and emergency responses.

7. PPE Management:

• Oversee the proper selection, usage, and maintenance of personal protective equipment (PPE) for all employees.
• Monitor employee compliance with PPE requirements and ensure the timely replacement of damaged or expired equipment.

8. Safety Culture Promotion:

• Foster a culture of safety by actively engaging with employees, encouraging safe practices, and providing recognition for safe behaviour.
• Create safety awareness programs and organise safety meetings to discuss potential hazards, accidents, and improvements.

9. Documentation and Record-Keeping:

• Maintain detailed records of safety audits, employee training, accident reports, inspections, and corrective actions.
• Ensure safety reports are accurately documented and submitted to management, regulators, and other stakeholders as required.

10. Continuous Improvement:

• Continuously assess and improve safety procedures and policies in the manufacturing environment.
• Collaborate with management and workers to identify opportunities to enhance safety and reduce risk.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in occupational health and safety, Environmental Health, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Certification in occupational health and safety (e.g., NEBOSH, OSHA 30-hour or 10-hour certification).
• Proven experience in a safety role within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Strong knowledge of safety regulations and compliance standards, including OSHA, environmental regulations, and risk management practices.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to identify hazards, assess risks, and implement corrective measures effectively.
• Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a team.

Working Conditions:

• Full-time position with typical working hours in a manufacturing facility, with occasional overtime or shift work as needed.
• Exposure to factory environments, including noise, heavy machinery, chemicals, and varying temperatures.
• Use of PPE (e.g., hard hats, gloves, ear protection, and safety glasses) when inspecting the manufacturing floor.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to walk, stand, bend, and occasionally lift materials up to [specified weight].
• The ability to conduct inspections in various areas of the factory, which may require manoeuvring through tight spaces or elevated platforms.

The Safety Officer in manufacturing plays a critical role in ensuring the health and safety of the workforce while maintaining compliance with safety regulations. By actively monitoring, training, and improving safety measures, this position helps to reduce workplace injuries and promote a safe working environment for all employees.

What you can expect from WAE :

You will join a fast-growing, stable business into Sustainability that has become a market leader with a corporate culture in which innovation and entrepreneurship are part of our main priorities. You will benefit from a great deal of freedom in your work, with plenty of room for initiative.

A great work environment with lots of challenges is what you can expect:

• You'll get responsibilities and the possibility to take ownership of your work.
• You'll get training and career opportunities to build your career within our company.
• You can count on competitive compensation and benefit package