Health and Safety Officer

Our clients have been providing quality building supplies and DIY materials to the trade and public for almost 200 years and now operate from a network of 15 branches located across Ireland. Our clients are now seeking applications for the position of EHS Officer, based at their head office on the Dock Road, Limerick.

The Role

As the Health and Safety Officer, you will ensure a safe environment for employees, customers, and visitors in our clients locations. This role includes developing and implementing safety policies, conducting risk assessments, providing safety training, and collaborating with managers across our clients nationwide 15-branch network to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Policy Development and Implementation
• Develop and enforce comprehensive health and safety policies and procedures.
• Regularly review and update safety policies to ensure compliance with current legislation.
• Effectively communicate safety policies across the organization.

Risk Assessment and Management

• Conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential workplace hazards.
• Update the Safety Statement with new hazards and risk assessments.
• Implement risk management strategies to mitigate identified risks.
• Ensure necessary safety measures are in place and regularly monitored.
• Coordinate with the Group Engineering Manager for Contractor RAMS and site works.

Training and Education

• Organize and conduct health and safety training sessions for all employees.
• Provide continuous education on safety practices and procedures.
• Ensure all new employees receive health and safety induction.
• Coordinate with HR to comply with First Aid Responder, Fire Marshall, Manual Handling, Forklift, and Driver training requirements.

Compliance and Inspections

• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Conduct regular safety inspections and workplace audits.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections, incidents, and safety training.

Incident Investigation and Reporting

• Promote near-miss awareness and a culture of reporting.
• Investigate and document all workplace accidents, incidents, and near-misses.
• Prepare detailed reports and recommend corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Liaise with regulatory authorities as needed, ensuring timely and accurate reporting.

Emergency Preparedness

• Develop and implement emergency response plans and procedures.
• Conduct regular emergency drills to ensure readiness.
• Ensure emergency equipment is maintained and accessible.

Ergonomics and Workplace Environment

• Conduct ergonomic assessments to ensure comfortable and safe working conditions.
• Work with Engineering & Facilities to address workplace environmental concerns like lighting and ventilation.
• Recommend adjustments to workstations and processes to enhance safety and efficiency.

Essential Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Certified Health and Safety Professional or equivalent certification.
• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in a health and safety role, preferably in the construction or building materials industry.
• In-depth knowledge of health and safety legislation and best practices.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Desirable Qualifications

• Previous experience in a Builders Merchants or similar environment.
• First Aid certification.
• Fire Safety certification.

Skills and Attributes

• Detail-oriented with the ability to identify hazards and implement safety measures.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to influence and inspire others to prioritize health and safety.
• Resilience and ability to handle stressful situations calmly.

Working Conditions

• Primarily based in Head Office in Limerick, with regular travel to the Builders Providers and Hardwoods branches, and the Truss manufacturing site.
• Regularly required to conduct site inspections, which may involve exposure to outdoor weather conditions and physical activity.