If there are employees on the job, there will be a need for Health and Safety professionals. To qualify as an Occupational Health and Safety Officer (OHSO), a vital role in the workplace, one must complete a training course and apply for a certificate from a relevant professional body. A potential career in occupational health and safety (OHS) is ideal for someone without a bachelor’s degree who want to make a difference in the workplace.

What is a safety officer?

They conduct workplace inspections to search for dangers such as defective or malfunctioning equipment, unstable scaffolding, and potential slip-and-fall liability. If an accident occurs at work, an occupational health and safety specialist may be brought in to investigate the cause of the mishap. They would then compose a comprehensive report on the incident.

What it takes to become a safety officer

Their responsibilities as safety officers include training staff on safety measures and investigating accidents. In addition to monitoring and inspecting work areas, safety officers recommend policies. You could work in a specialised industry such as manufacturing or construction. Their role is to assist employees and supervisors in avoiding health hazards and accidents.

What it takes to be a good safety officer

A good safety officer possesses industry knowledge, excellent communication skills, and meticulous attention to detail.  They should be knowledgeable about their industry and any safety issues that may arise.  Safety officers work hard to stay current on government and company policies to guarantee their workplace remains compliant. They strive to establish positive relationships with the workers and management on-site.  A good safety officer works with the rest of the team to develop effective policies that do not interfere with work.

Is this a good career?

Most South African workplaces are required to have a safety officer. They are some of the most important workers.  Safety Officers, ensure that the workplace is a safe working environment for everyone on the premises. Whenever there are workers on the job, there will always be a need for Health and Safety specialists. Thousands of people get hurt on the job each year. Governments are motivated to lower this number by enacting strict OHS rules that organisations must follow. Noncompliance with health and safety standards can result in fines, business closures, and significant legal action. To avoid this, the demand for skilled OHS workers is increasing across South Africa.