Find out everything you need to know about becoming a Health and Safety Officer.
Job Title - Health and Safety Officer
Description
A Health and Safety Officer (HSO) is responsible for monitoring a company's compliance with health and safety law and providing advice to both companies and employers on the work environment. This involves both desk based monitoring as well as company visits.
Typical Job Activities
Carries out routine inspections, including collating evidence and taking samples as necessary
Investigates complaints in the work environment
Ensures compliance with legislation and making sure that an employer is not being negligent with regards to the safety of its staff
Advises on technical and legal issues
Works with other professionals such as scientists, laboratory staff and lawyers
Collects evidence and building case files including maintaining a database of inspections and actions outstanding
Presents information in court or other public inquiries
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Related Occupations
Environmental Health Officer
Civil Servant
Trading Standards Officers
Environmental Scientist
Educational Requirements
According to the SETA CHIETA these are the possible qualifications you can consider:
National Diploma or Bachelor of Technology in Environmental Health
National Diploma or Bachelor of Technology in Environmental Science
Diploma or Degree in Environmental Health
National Diploma or Bachelor of Technology in Occupational Hygiene
Advanced or Postgraduate Diploma in Occupational Health
Master of Technology in Environmental Health
Compulsory subjects: None
Recommended subjects: Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics
What natural skills and/or aptitudes do I need for this occupation?
You will need to be calm with the ability to work in potentially high-stress environments
Communication skills are paramount
Technical skills
Self-motivated and well organised
Ability to think on your feet at times
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Employment Opportunities
High
Market Competitiveness
Moderate
Income Potential
Moderate
Self-Employment Options
High
International Employment Market
Moderate
Possible Employers
Municipalities
Department of National Health and Population Development
Transnet
SABS, ISCOR or SA Defence Force
Mines
Department of Agriculture
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Relevant Contact Details
Phoenix
www.phoenixhsc.co.za
Durban University of Technology
www.dut.ac.za
Career Progress and Path
Further Studies in the specific career field
Further studies in related fields
Experience in specific field
Work performance
Experience in related fields
Possible Career Paths
Specialist career in the specific field
Consultant/ contractor
Own business
Employment Stability
Very stable
Reasons to consider this career
A job in government
A job in private companies
To start my own business
To be of service to people
To work with my hands
To work with people
To work flexible hours
To work internationally
To focus on a specific field
To apply my special skills
