Key Factors to Evaluate When Hiring Health and Safety Officers

When hiring key health and safety employees, there are several technical and personality factors you need to consider. What kind of experience and qualifications should you prioritize? What type of individual can best handle the industry’s pressures and align with your company’s culture?

Health and safety representatives must be highly committed to reducing workplace risks and demonstrate a strong dedication to the role. However, the job calls for more than just commitment; it requires someone eager to grow personally and professionally. Here are the qualities you should look for in an applicant:

**Qualifications**

Any candidate applying for a health and safety role should meet a certain qualification standard. Typically, employers seek someone with at least a NEBOSH certificate or its equivalent. A good starting point would be the National General Certificate or the NEBOSH International Certificate for those working outside the UK.

Depending on the role’s specific duties and your industry, additional qualifications, like a construction or fire certification, might be necessary. Continuous training is crucial in this field, so look for someone interested in furthering their education and advancing their career.

**Experience**

The experience level you need varies with the seniority of the role. At a minimum, seek candidates who have previously worked as health and safety representatives, even if in a small organization.

Candidates should demonstrate that they’ve successfully managed workplace risks and improved safety standards. They should understand relevant policies and procedures, with evidence of having implemented them effectively.

**Specific Attributes**

Health and safety roles demand more than just qualifications and experience; they require a particular personality and skill set.

Quick decision-making is often necessary to mitigate risks, so a health and safety officer must make decisions confidently and remain calm under pressure. They should handle strict deadlines without losing attention to detail. The role involves finding solutions to problems and being adaptable when needed.

Flexibility is also key, as the job requires managing time effectively and working well independently.

In conclusion, don’t take your commitment to health and safety lightly. Ensure you have strong recruitment measures to find the right candidate, whether they need a NEBOSH international qualification or another relevant certification.