The Health and Safety Advisers
The health and safety advisers ensure that constant safety training and orientation is available the employees, especially the newly recruited ones. He or she is involved in the maintenance, creation and communication of safety related procedures and policies, making sure that the outcome is fully implemented on the construction site. They may be the ones who are responsible for the editing, writing and the update of procedure and policy documents, handbooks and posters on a site. The health and safety adviser is the person who ensures that the construction site is hazard free and the work of this person cannot be neglected in Canada. An injured worker can easily sue if the work environment is not safe. There are a lot of tasks that a health and safety advisers is faced with in a construction site to ensure that there is safety in a work place. The work varies from one company or a work environment to another according to the provinces requirements in Canada. The health and safety advisers are given the responsibility of training every worker on site to stay away from danger and prevent injury during work. There are different safety requirements in Canada that an advisers is expected to observe on a construction site.
How to Become an Occupational Health and Safety Adviser in Alberta
In today’s workplaces, the importance of occupational health and safety cannot be overstated. As organizations increasingly recognize the necessity of protecting their employees and managing risks, the demand for skilled Occupational Health and Safety Advisers in Alberta continues to rise. These professionals play a critical role in implementing risk management strategies and conducting risk assessments to ensure a safe working environment, ultimately fostering a culture of safety and prevention within organizations.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) advisers are pivotal in maintaining workplace safety and health standards. Their primary responsibilities include identifying hazards, ensuring compliance with safety laws, and implementing safety policies. They conduct regular inspections and risk assessments to prevent workplace incidents and respond to accidents by investigating causes and enforcing corrective measures. Moreover, OHS advisers play a crucial role in training employees on safety practices and emergency responses, thereby fostering a proactive safety culture within the organization.
Working Conditions and Environment
OHS advisers often work in varied environments, from offices to industrial sites, where they may be exposed to potential hazards. Their role requires frequent travel to different work sites to conduct safety audits and inspections. These professionals may also face emergency situations where they need to provide immediate solutions to ensure worker safety. The job can involve irregular hours, especially when dealing with unplanned incidents or emergency response activities.
Skills and Traits Needed
Effective OHS advisers possess a blend of technical knowledge and soft skills. They require a thorough understanding of safety regulations and the ability to apply these standards practically in the workplace. Strong communication skills are essential for articulating safety procedures and engaging with workers at all levels. Additionally, they must exhibit leadership qualities, showing responsibility and accountability in promoting and maintaining high safety standards. Attention to detail and the ability to anticipate potential risks are also critical traits that contribute to the success of an OHS adviser.
Educational and Certification Requirements
Minimum Educational Qualifications
To embark on a career as an Occupational Health and Safety Adviser in Alberta, individuals must possess at least a high school diploma. However, more competitive candidates often have higher education such as a bachelor’s degree in science, engineering, or a related discipline, or a post-secondary diploma in a relevant field. For those looking to directly enter the field, a Red Seal Journeyperson certificate combined with relevant experience can also be suitable.
Relevant Courses and Programs in Alberta
Alberta offers robust educational programs tailored to aspiring Occupational Health and Safety Advisers. The NAIT Occupational Health & Safety (OHSD) diploma program, recognized by the Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals (BCRSP), prepares students through a 2-year, full-time training focusing on real-world issues and practical skills. Additionally, the University of Alberta and other institutions provide an Occupational Health and Safety Certificate, aligning with BCRSP’s Canadian Registered Safety Technician (CRST) accreditation requirements. These programs are designed not only to meet educational standards but also to provide a pathway to further certification.
Certification Options
Certification enhances credibility and employability in the occupational health and safety field. In Alberta, while not mandatory, obtaining certifications such as the Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) or Canadian Registered Safety Technician (CRST) can be highly beneficial. The CRSP certification requires a combination of education and relevant work experience, followed by a successful examination. Institutions like the Alberta Construction Safety Association and the Board of Certified Safety Professionals also offer additional certifications, which can be pursued to further establish expertise in the field.
Steps to Start Your Career in Alberta
To begin a career as an Occupational Health and Safety Adviser in Alberta, individuals should follow these structured steps:
Job Searching and Networking
Initiate your career by exploring current and future job prospects for occupational health and safety officers in Alberta. The employment outlook is moderate for 2023-2025, with new positions arising primarily due to employment growth and retirements. Networking plays a crucial role; engage with professionals across various sectors like construction, oil and gas extraction, and technical services through platforms like LinkedIn or local safety organizations. Attending industry conferences and participating in forums can also enhance job visibility and opportunities.
Gaining Relevant Experience
Acquiring practical experience is essential. Many post-secondary programs in occupational health and safety offer internships or cooperative education opportunities that allow students to work in real-world settings. This practical exposure is invaluable, as it not only enhances technical knowledge but also develops essential skills such as communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking which are crucial for success in occupational health and safety roles.
Advancement Opportunities
Advancement in the field of Occupational Health and Safety in Alberta often requires additional certification and continuous professional development. Certifications like CRSP (Canadian Registered Safety Professional) or CRST (Canadian Registered Safety Technician) are highly regarded and can significantly enhance career growth and salary prospects. Professionals with advanced certifications and who adhere to a Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct are often seen as credible leaders and may advance into managerial or executive roles, particularly in larger organizations or government sectors.
Health and Safety Advisers Job Calgary
They inspect the construction sites to ensure that every worker on a site is able to follow procedures and regulations. They are the ones who are seen performing safety inspections at different locations and on equipment that a construction company is using. The payment of a health and safety advisers depends on the province, company, experience of the worker, the location and many other factors. They are one of the highest paid employees on construction sites and it is expected that they are licensed and certified.