About the Role
The Laboratory Chemicals Safety Specialist assists the Laboratory Safety Manager in ensuring the protection of human health through effective monitoring and implementation of compliance strategies, policies, and procedures related to safety and health. This role involves understanding safety & health requirements and their relation to research operations. The specialist will oversee the safety & health program across the organization, develop and implement safety procedures, and identify process improvements to ensure compliance. Conducting safety audits and assessments to identify performance deficiencies and suggest corrective actions are also key responsibilities of this role.
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Key Responsibilities
- Assist in developing Laboratory Safety Manuals (LSM) for each laboratory
- Oversee and audit implementation of laboratory safety plans
- Assist the Laboratory Safety Manager with Safety & Health Plan implementation
- Ensure effective implementation of company policies and procedures
- Establish safe chemical quantity storage volumes for laboratories based on building codes and research requirements
- Define safe storage requirements for consumables across laboratories, research complex utility buildings, and warehouse facilities
- Manage correct utilization of chemical and biological materials, ventilation systems, and laboratory equipment
- Coordinate with Environmental Programs for safe disposal of hazardous substances
- Ensure organizational compliance with current requirements, standards, approved codes of practice, and health and safety guidance
- Verify subcontractors conducting work affecting safety and health comply with organizational procedures and processes
- Maintain current knowledge of applicable regulations and standards
- Conduct regular site inspections to verify safety and health policies and procedures are properly implemented
- Identify deficiencies and opportunities for improvement; record observations in issues management system
- Conduct audits to evaluate effectiveness of health and safety systems and procedures
- Conduct risk assessments and recommend risk reduction strategies
- Investigate accident circumstances and causes; implement preventive measures
- Work proactively with organizational staff to establish and maintain a culture of safe working practices
- Promote and raise awareness of safety and health responsibilities at all organizational levels
- Convey Safety & Health Program expectations to facility personnel and users
- Provide working interface and line of communication with internal and external organizations on Safety & Health matters
- Support facility users and researchers in specialized health areas (occupational exposure, ergonomics, noise, occupational diseases)
- Identify and recommend corrective actions for performance deficiencies
- Take appropriate action to mitigate likelihood and impact of health and safety risks
- Maintain training and professional qualifications
- Update job knowledge through educational opportunities, professional publications, and professional organizations
Required Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor's degree in relevant discipline (Chemistry, Environmental Science, Occupational Health & Safety, Engineering, or related field)
- Experience: Minimum 5 years in laboratory safety, occupational health & safety, or equivalent
- Skills: Chemical safety management, audit/assessment expertise, risk analysis, regulatory knowledge, strong communication
- Preferred Certifications: CSP, NEBOSH, IOSH, or Hazardous Materials Management certification
Knowledge & Skills
- Thorough understanding of laboratory safety regulations, standards, and best practices
- Knowledge of chemical storage, handling, and disposal requirements
- Proficiency with safety management systems and documentation
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work collaboratively across organizational levels
- Analytical and problem-solving capabilities
- Attention to detail and organizational skills
- Ability to conduct effective audits and assessments
Certifications (Preferred)
- Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or equivalent
- NEBOSH, IOSH, or similar occupational health and safety certification
- Hazardous Materials Management certification
Technical Competencies
- Proficiency with safety management software and databases
- Ability to interpret technical safety documentation and regulations
- Competency in risk assessment methodologies
- Familiarity with laboratory equipment and ventilation systems
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
- Ability to conduct regular site inspections and walk laboratory facilities
- Ability to lift and handle documentation and safety equipment as needed
- Exposure to laboratory environments, chemicals, and equipment
- Occasional travel to other organizational facilities
- Standard office environment with computer workstation
Reporting & Accountability
This position reports directly to the Laboratory Safety Manager and is accountable for:
- Timely completion of safety audits and assessments
- Accuracy of safety documentation and reports
- Compliance with organizational safety policies
- Effectiveness of corrective action recommendations
- Maintenance of professional qualifications and certifications
