Safety Officer

The Safety Officer is responsible for ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of employees within the organization, as well as complying with the Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHS) mandated by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). The Safety Officer implements safety policies, conducts risk assessments, provides safety training, and addresses any safety issues or incidents in the workplace.
This role is crucial for preventing accidents and injuries, promoting a safe working environment, and ensuring the company is compliant with safety regulations.

Key Responsibilities:
1. Safety Program Implementation
Implement safety policies and procedures: Enforce safety protocols in accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHS), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) guidelines, and company-specific safety regulations.
Create a safe workplace: Identify workplace hazards and implement measures to prevent accidents and injuries.
Safety audits: Conduct regular safety audits and inspections to assess workplace hazards and ensure safety procedures are being followed.

2. Risk Assessment & Hazard Identification
Conduct risk assessments: Regularly assess and identify potential risks, such as chemical, electrical, physical, ergonomic, and fire hazards in the workplace.
Recommend safety measures: Propose safety improvements, including the use of protective equipment, signage, or procedural changes to minimize identified risks.
Report hazards: Immediately report serious hazards or unsafe conditions to management and assist in corrective actions.

3. Safety Training & Awareness
Conduct safety training: Provide training sessions for employees on workplace safety practices, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), fire safety, and emergency response procedures.
Induction training for new employees: Ensure that all new employees are trained on safety procedures and policies before beginning work.
Promote safety culture: Foster a safety-conscious environment by actively promoting and reinforcing safe work habits among employees.
Regular safety drills: Organize and conduct regular safety drills, including fire drills and first aid drills, to prepare employees for emergency situations.

4. Incident & Accident Investigation
Investigate accidents/incidents: Lead the investigation of workplace accidents and incidents, documenting findings and ensuring the proper reporting and documentation of such occurrences.
Root cause analysis: Conduct thorough analysis of accidents to determine their root cause and suggest corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
Prepare incident reports: Submit detailed reports on accidents, including causes, outcomes, and recommended improvements.

5. Compliance with Safety Standards
Monitor compliance with regulations: Ensure that the company complies with all applicable local, state, and national safety regulations, including DOLE, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and Environmental Compliance.
Prepare for inspections: Facilitate inspections and audits from government agencies (e.g., DOLE, DOH, BFP) and ensure the company passes these audits by maintaining compliance.
Keep up-to-date with regulations: Stay informed on changes in safety laws, regulations, and standards in the Philippines and update policies accordingly.

6. Emergency Preparedness & Response
Develop emergency response plans: Create and implement emergency procedures for fire, natural disasters, accidents, or other workplace emergencies.
First aid training: Ensure that designated first aid responders are trained and that first aid kits are available and well-stocked.
Crisis management: Be actively involved in emergency response during workplace accidents or crises and provide immediate support in emergency situations.

7. Record Keeping & Reporting
Maintain safety records: Keep accurate records of safety inspections, training sessions, accident reports, and any safety-related documentation.
Report to management: Submit periodic safety reports and summaries of safety performance, incidents, and corrective actions to management.
Maintain safety logs: Record workplace accidents and near misses, ensuring they are properly documented and reported in compliance with DOLE regulations.

8. Safety Equipment & Facility Maintenance
Ensure availability of PPE: Monitor the availability and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in the workplace and ensure that it meets safety standards.
Safety signage and equipment: Ensure safety signs, labels, and emergency exits are clearly marked and maintained. Oversee maintenance of fire extinguishers, emergency showers, and other safety equipment.
Ensure workplace cleanliness: Ensure that work areas are kept clean and free of hazards, including ensuring that spillages or waste are quickly and properly addressed.

Qualifications:
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Science, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
Licensure/Certifications:
Professional certification such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Occupational Health and Safety Technician (OHST) preferred.
Experience:
Proven experience in safety management, preferably in a similar industry or environment.

Skills & Abilities:
Strong knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations in the Philippines.
Ability to conduct risk assessments and suggest corrective actions.
Strong communication and presentation skills for conducting safety training and awareness sessions.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple safety tasks simultaneously.
Attention to detail and the ability to spot safety hazards quickly.