Occupational Health and Safety Specialist

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  Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations

Occupational Health and Safety Specialist

Also Called: Chemical Hygiene Officer, EHS Officer (Environmental Health and Safety Officer), Health and Safety Analyst, Industrial Hygiene Consultant, Industrial Hygienist, Industrial Hygienist Consultant, OHS Consultant (Occupational Health and Safety Consultant), Risk Control Consultant, Safety Consultant, Safety Specialist, Chemical Hygiene Officer, EHS Officer (Environmental Health and Safety Officer), Health and Safety Analyst, Industrial Hygiene Consultant, Industrial Hygienist, Industrial Hygienist Consultant, OHS Consultant (Occupational Health and Safety Consultant), Risk Control Consultant, Safety Consultant, Safety Specialist

What they do

Review, evaluate, and analyze work environments and design programs and procedures to control, eliminate, and prevent disease or injury caused by chemical, physical, and biological agents or ergonomic factors. May conduct inspections and enforce adherence to laws and regulations governing the health and safety of individuals. May be employed in the public or private sector.

$49,550
Starting Salary (2023)
$81,140
Median Salary (2023)
13.3%
Projected Job Growth
122,300
Employment (2022)

Typical Tasks

Collaborate with engineers or physicians to institute control or remedial measures for hazardous or potentially hazardous conditions or equipment.
Conduct safety training or education programs and demonstrate the use of safety equipment.
Coordinate "right-to-know" programs regarding hazardous chemicals or other substances.
Develop or maintain hygiene programs, such as noise surveys, continuous atmosphere monitoring, ventilation surveys, or asbestos management plans.
Inspect or evaluate workplace environments, equipment, or practices to ensure compliance with safety standards and government regulations.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Investigative
Studying, Research based work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Realistic
Practical, Physical Work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Integrity
Cooperation
Dependability
Attention to Detail
Adaptability/Flexibility
Concern for Others

What key skills are needed for this job?

Speaking
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Complex Problem Solving
Social Perceptiveness

Expected Knowledge

Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.

Common Activities

Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

More Info

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