Occupational Safety and Health Expert

Occupational health and safety experts specialize in workplace safety. They work for government agencies, factories, and other companies where people work in risky conditions. Occupational health and safety experts analyze risk factors, educate workers about safety, and inspect worksites for health and safety hazards. Many specialize in environmental protection, ergonomics, and worker safety.

The first task these specialists are typically assigned is to gather information about worksite safety hazards. After information is collected, they determine how closely to legal regulations and company safety polices employees are following. Their conclusions are reviewed by company managers responsible for implementing employee health and safety procedures.

Occupational health and safety experts often create safety policies and regulations. When not developing new policies, they conduct inspections to ensure current ones are strictly adhered to. Many are assigned enforced enforcement duties after violations are discovered.

Education and Training

Occupational health and safety specialists are required to hold bachelor’s degrees in subjects related to this field. Aspiring occupational health and safety specialists should complete physics, science, and communications courses during college. Likewise, it’s useful to complete classes covering safety laws. Before qualifying for employment, occupational health and safety specialists are required to successfully complete a written test. Many organizations, including the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) and the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH), offer professional licensure programs. Licensed occupational health and safety specialists are periodically required to complete continuing education.