The Role of a Workplace Health & Safety Officer

The specific job description of a WHS Officer varies by the size of the business, as well as the type of activities performed by workers. A WHS Officer in an office setting, for example, may be responsible for training for emergency procedures. In an industrial setting, the safety officer may test equipment to ensure that it meets regulatory guidelines and train workers on the safe method to operate any piece of equipment. He/she may collect and analyze potentially hazardous materials, and train workers who handle the hazardous materials. He/she makes sure safety gear is available to all employees and that they wear it on the job. The WHS Officer investigates accidents and completes reports, as needed. He/she also monitors the work environment for unsafe air or water.

Some duties may include:

• providing advice to the Board or Senior Management on any or all areas relating to Health and Safety
• formulating, implementing and reviewing Health and Safety Training Programs
• establishing proposals and a budget for various Health and Safety initiatives
• conduct or coordinate Risk Assessments
• investigate and report on hazards, incidents and near misses
• creating Health and Safety Awareness programs
• respond to any health or safety concerns
• conduct health and safety inspections
• stay current with legislative requirements and advise Senior Management and the Board on any changes
• liaise with governmental bodies and regulatory agencies
• coordinate and manage removal of hazardous waste
• create and test Evacuation and Emergency Plans, including liaising with Emergency Services
• assess and implement the necessary First Aid requirements

While the workplace health and safety officer may be an employee who takes on the additional responsibility of monitoring safety in the work environment, he must also supplement his on-the-job training with formal training specific to the type of industry.