Work Health and Safety Manager
SOC 11-9199.01 · ESCO 1212 · OSCA 111633
Role snapshot
Overview
Develops and enforces comprehensive workplace safety policies, conducts thorough risk assessments and site inspections, investigates incidents to determine root causes, and trains staff to prevent injuries and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations. This role is critical for fostering a culture of safety and protecting employees.
Ensures a safe and healthy work environment, reducing incidents, preventing injuries, and protecting the organization from legal and financial risks associated with non-compliance. Contributes directly to employee well-being and operational continuity.
On the job
- Develop, implement, and review workplace health and safety policies and procedures.
- Conduct regular risk assessments, site inspections, and safety audits to identify hazards and ensure compliance.
- Investigate workplace incidents, accidents, and near-misses to determine causes and implement corrective actions.
- Design and deliver safety training programs for employees and management.
- Liaise with regulatory bodies, external auditors, and emergency services as required.
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
StableDemand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.
Education & training
Bachelor's degree in occupational health and safety, environmental health, engineering, or a related field. Professional certifications like CSP (Certified Safety Professional) are highly valued.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Work Health and Safety Manager
Strategy & Consulting
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
enterprising · ECI
People who enjoy leading initiatives, investigating complex problems, and meticulously ensuring compliance with rules and regulations tend to thrive in this role. It combines a drive for influence with a strong need for analytical and structured work.
Personality characteristics
Conscientious
Demonstrates a strong commitment to rules, procedures, and meticulous detail required for compliance and safety protocols.
Decisive Leader
Comfortable taking charge, making clear decisions, and influencing others to adopt safe practices.
Analytical
Enjoys investigating incidents, analyzing data, and identifying root causes to prevent future occurrences.
Calm Under Pressure
Maintains composure and effectiveness during emergencies, incidents, or high-stakes investigations.
Collaborative
Works effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders to build a shared culture of safety.
Best for
- Individuals who are passionate about protecting others and ensuring a safe work environment.
- Professionals who thrive on analytical problem-solving, regulatory compliance, and leadership.
- Those who enjoy a mix of strategic planning, field work, and training responsibilities.
Watch out for
- Requires frequent interaction and communication across all levels of an organization, which may not suit highly introverted individuals.
- Can involve responding to incidents and emergencies, requiring a calm demeanor under pressure.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Work Health and Safety Manager — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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