The role and functions of a Safety Specialist in South Africa

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A Safety Specialist, also known as an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist, plays a critical role in ensuring compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSAct) 85 of 1993 in South Africa. The OHSAct is designed to promote and regulate the health and safety of workers in all industries and workplaces.

The role and functions of a Safety Specialist in terms of the OHSAct 85 of 1993 include:

  1. Hazard identification and risk assessment: Safety Specialists are responsible for identifying potential hazards and assessing the associated risks in the workplace. They must ensure that all risks are identified and appropriately mitigated to prevent accidents and injuries.
  2. Development and implementation of safety policies and procedures: Safety Specialists must develop and implement policies and procedures that comply with the OHSAct and ensure the safety of workers. This includes developing emergency response plans and conducting regular safety drills.
  3. Training and education: Safety Specialists must provide training and education to workers on safety procedures and practices. This includes training on the proper use of equipment, handling of hazardous materials, and emergency response procedures.
  4. Incident investigation: Safety Specialists must investigate all incidents, accidents, and near-misses that occur in the workplace. They must identify the root cause of the incident and take appropriate action to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
  5. Inspections and audits: Safety Specialists must conduct regular inspections and audits to ensure compliance with the OHSAct and identify potential hazards and risks.
  6. Liaison with regulatory authorities: Safety Specialists must liaise with regulatory authorities, such as the Department of Labour, to ensure that the workplace is compliant with all relevant health and safety regulations.

Overall, the role and functions of a Safety Specialist are critical to promoting and maintaining a safe and healthy work environment in accordance with the OHSAct 85 of 1993.

To know more, get a copy of the Safety Specialist.