Ensure compliance with safety regulations, conduct training, and maintain a safe working environment.
Educational Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Safety, Environmental Science, Engineering, or a related field.
- For construction-specific roles, Civil Engineering or Architecture graduates are often preferred.
- Some companies accept any bachelor’s degree if paired with strong safety training/certifications.
Certifications (Highly Valued / Sometimes Required)
- Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training (DOLE-accredited, in the Philippines).
- Construction Occupational Safety and Health (COSH) Training (mandatory for construction projects).
- First Aid and CPR certification.
- International certifications (advantageous):
- NEBOSH (International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety)
- IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health)
- OSHA training (Occupational Safety and Health Administration – USA standard)
Technical Knowledge
- Knowledge of workplace safety regulations, codes, and standards (e.g., DOLE OSHC, OSHA, ISO 45001).
- Familiarity with risk assessment, hazard identification, and control measures.
- Ability to develop, implement, and monitor safety policies and procedures.
- Experience in accident/incident investigation and reporting.
- Understanding of emergency preparedness and response planning.
- Basic knowledge of environmental regulations and waste management is a plus.
Professional Requirements
- Work experience:
- Entry-level: Internship, safety training, or site exposure.
- Mid-level: 2–3 years in occupational health and safety, preferably in construction or manufacturing.
- Senior-level: 5+ years including supervisory or managerial responsibility.
- Ability to conduct safety orientations, toolbox meetings, and training sessions.
- Skills in writing safety manuals, risk assessments, and compliance reports.
Soft Skills
- Strong attention to detail and analytical skills.
- Communication and interpersonal skills for coordinating with workers, management, and regulators.
- Leadership and assertiveness in enforcing safety standards.
- Problem-solving and quick decision-making during emergencies.
- Ability to train and influence others toward a safety-first culture.
Licensure / Accreditation (Philippines Example)
- Must be an Accredited Safety Officer by DOLE:
- Safety Officer 1 (SO1) – 1 day training
- Safety Officer 2 (SO2) – 40 hours BOSH/COSH training
- Higher-level SO3, SO4 for supervisory and managerial roles