Health & Safety Officer

SUMMARY:
My client is looking for an experienced Health & Safety Officer in Port Elizabeth.

POSITION INFO:
Reporting to the Compliance Manager, this person will act as the on-shift representative & ambassador for SHE (Safety, Health, Environmental, and Energy) policies, procedures, standards, and work instructions. The SHE Officer ensures compliance with SHE regulations and company standards while providing operational support and guidance to employees across all shifts.

Responsibilities:

• Ensure compliance with regulatory, ISO, and legal SHE requirements across all sites.
• Monitor implementation of SHE policies, procedures, and systems during each shift.
• Conduct SHE audits, inspections, and checks in line with OHS Act requirements.
• Support Compliance KPIs and ensure required reports, samples, and regulatory submissions are completed.
• Provide SHE guidance and support to manufacturing operations.
• Investigate workplace incidents and implement preventative measures.
• Conduct Hazard Identification and Risk Assessments (HIRA) and update SWPs and SOPs.
• Facilitate SHE inductions, training, toolbox talks, and safety awareness initiatives.
• Perform safety inspections of equipment, machinery, PPE, and facilities.
• Monitor contractor safety compliance and issue work permits where required.
• Maintain SHE documentation, compliance registers, and safety records.
• Ensure Environmental Management Systems comply with legislation and ISO standards.
• Conduct environmental assessments, audits, and investigations.
• Implement corrective actions and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support initiatives to reduce energy consumption and promote energy efficiency.
• Implement energy-saving initiatives such as equipment shutdown schedules, energy-efficient lighting, sensors, and air leak reduction programmes.
• Conduct risk assessments and hazard identification across departments.
• Review contractor risk assessments and ensure compliance before work begins.
• Identify and mitigate significant operational risks.
• Participate in daily production and SHE meetings.
• Support SHE representatives and promote a strong safety culture across shifts.
• Perform daily audits and provide SHE support across departments.
• Maintain SHE reports, records, and compliance documentation.
• Promote company values, safety culture, and operational standards.
• Support initiatives related to safety, quality, and customer focus.
• Participate in overtime and rotational weekend standby duties when required.

• Grade 12 (Matric)
• National Diploma in Safety Management (preferred) or equivalent qualification
• SAMTRAC certification
• Knowledge of OHS Act, ISO standards, environmental, noise, and energy requirements
• Tertiary qualification in Safety Management, Environmental Management, or related field
• Additional SHE-related training or certifications
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a manufacturing or related environment
• Experience within a battery manufacturing environment
• Knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act)
• Understanding of ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 management systems
• Familiarity with national regulations and by-laws
• Computer literacy (MS Office)

• Ability to work under pressure
• Strong organisational and planning skills
• Team player with strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently
• Innovative thinking and problem solving
• Strong drive for results
• Ability to work with diverse teams and personalities