Health and Safety Officer

Overview

The Health and Safety Officer will have a pivotal responsibility to safeguard the wellbeing of employees and contractors on construction sites. This role involves formulating, implementing, and supervising safety policies to ensure compliance with relevant health and safety laws and fostering a safe working environment.

Primary Duties

• Create and uphold health and safety policies consistent with current legislation and company standards, ensuring local and national compliance.
• Organize and oversee resources to perform routine site inspections, identify potential hazards, and enforce safety regulations.
• Track and assess health and safety performance, delivering detailed reports for senior leadership.
• Keep accurate records of mandatory inspections pertaining to activities and equipment on site.
• Guarantee the appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety protocols on all construction locations.
• Coordinate with external regulatory agencies to meet all legal safety requirements.
• Develop and manage safety and environmental management systems, including safety statements, project-specific health and safety plans, risk assessments, and method statements.
• Serve as the company's representative during external agency audits and inspections related to health and safety.
• Collaborate with Site Managers to maintain current health and safety documentation on-site and assist in fulfilling statutory health and safety duties.
• Lead investigations into incidents and near misses, ensuring thorough root cause analysis and implementation of corrective measures.
• Review subcontractor safety statements and related documentation to ensure all health and safety paperwork is current and compliant.
• Deliver health and safety training and induction programs for new hires, subcontractors, and office staff.
• Communicate with site supervisors regarding deficiencies, necessary improvements, and report outcomes to management.
• Ensure all staff and subcontractors maintain full compliance with health, safety, and workplace legislation.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Comprehensive understanding of construction site safety protocols and regulations.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills capable of influencing and engaging various employee levels.
• Proficiency in conducting risk assessments, incident investigations, and processing accident reports.
• Demonstrated proactive attitude in recognizing and resolving health and safety challenges.
• Capability to manage multiple sites simultaneously.
• Competence in using Microsoft Office tools.
• Team-oriented with excellent collaboration abilities.
• Fluent in both written and spoken communication.

Experience and Certifications

• At least four years of relevant experience, preferably within a principal civil engineering contractor environment.
• A minimum Level 7 qualification in Health and Safety; a Level 8 qualification is preferred, or alternatively, certification combined with five plus years of experience in construction or civil engineering sectors.
• Previous experience in a similar Irish role.
• Manual handling and abrasive wheels trainer certifications are beneficial.
• Valid SAFE PASS and manual handling certificates are required.
• Must have a valid work permit.
• Possession of a full driving license.