Safety Specialist

About the Role

The Safety Specialist is tasked with implementing, monitoring, and continuously enhancing Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) programs to ensure compliance with ISO 45001 standards across the Emirates Flight Catering group. This role involves overseeing safety practices at company premises and operational sites to reduce workplace incidents and bolster employee safety, supporting adherence to relevant laws, standards, and internal policies. Under the Workplace Safety Manager's guidance, the specialist offers expert safety advice to department heads.

Key Responsibilities

• Track OHS performance across departments, collaborating with heads of departments, management, and frontline teams to set achievable safety improvement goals.
• Assist in planning and executing internal safety initiatives such as safety campaigns, toolbox talks, and targeted communications to strengthen safety culture and mitigate risks.
• Act as a backup for the Workplace Safety Manager when required and work alongside other Safety Specialists to maintain operational continuity.
• Manage and assess the Behavior Based Safety Management (BBSM) program, ensuring sufficient resources and training are allocated in assigned departments to attain safety key performance indicators.
• Coordinate and conduct fire evacuation drills, liaising with regulatory authorities and external service providers to ensure preparedness.
• Investigate workplace incidents involving employees, contractors, and visitors, carrying out root cause analyses and proposing preventive measures to avoid recurrence.
• Participate in Health & Safety Committee meetings, monitor progress of corrective actions, and ensure compliance with applicable legislation, corporate policies, and industry best practices.
• Design and deliver safety training programs together with the Learning and Development team to keep staff knowledgeable and competent in safe work practices.
• Perform internal audits and inspections to verify ISO 45001:2018 compliance and support management during external client audits.

Work Environment

Functioning in a round-the-clock environment, the Safety Specialist plays a vital role in protecting staff welfare and promoting ongoing occupational health and safety improvements. This position demands a proactive stance on identifying risks, engaging stakeholders, and resolving safety issues promptly, with the flexibility to support shift work and emergency responses.

Qualifications and Experience

• Mandatory certifications include NEBOSH International or General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety, Lead Auditor Certification in ISO 45001:2018, and a Degree or Diploma in Occupational Health & Safety Management or an equivalent qualification.
• Membership in IOSH or another recognized professional safety organization is preferred.
• Minimum of 6 years experience in a relevant health and safety role is required, with preferred backgrounds in catering, aviation, or industrial/manufacturing sectors.

Skills and Competencies

• Comprehensive knowledge of OHS legislation, compliance requirements, and safety management systems.
• Proficiency in performing risk assessments, incident investigations, and conducting internal audits.
• Adeptness in developing and implementing safety policies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of engaging with regulatory entities.
• Strong command of Microsoft Office tools including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Capacity to build trust, influence various stakeholders, and cultivate a safety-first organizational culture.