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Job Description: Health and Safety Manager (Water/Wastewater Sector)
Position Title: Health and Safety Manager
Location: Grays, Essex
Salary: 50,000 - 70,000
Job Type: Full Time
About the Role:
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Health and Safety Manager to oversee health and safety practices within the water, drainage and wastewater sector. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing and improving the health, safety, and environmental procedures to ensure full compliance with all local, national, and international regulations. You will be a key driver in creating a safe working environment for all employees and contractors across various operational sites, including water treatment plants, pumping stations, and wastewater facilities.
As the Health and Safety Manager, you will work closely with operational managers, engineers, and field teams to implement and enforce safety policies, conduct risk assessments, and respond to incidents. You will play a vital role in reducing risks, preventing accidents, and maintaining a culture of safety across the organisation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop, implement, and manage Health and Safety policies and procedures in line with industry regulations and best practices.
- Conduct regular health and safety audits and inspections across all operational sites, including wastewater treatment facilities, water treatment plants, and pumping stations.
- Ensure compliance with national and international health and safety legislation, including health and safety at work regulations and environmental laws.
- Lead accident and incident investigations, ensuring thorough reporting, identifying root causes, and implementing corrective actions.
- Deliver health and safety training and awareness programs to employees, contractors, and site visitors, focusing on industry-specific risks and hazards.
- Monitor and review the performance of health and safety systems, ensuring continuous improvement.
- Coordinate and manage emergency response procedures, including spill response, fire safety, and chemical handling.
- Work collaboratively with other departments to ensure safety compliance is integrated into all operational processes and projects.
- Maintain and update safety records, ensuring accurate documentation for audits, inspections, and certifications.
- Liaise with regulatory bodies and external agencies, such as the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), and ensure timely reporting of incidents when necessary.
- Provide advice and guidance to senior management on health and safety issues, including risk management, legal compliance, and best practices.
- Lead the preparation and submission of health and safety reports for management meetings and regulatory bodies.
Person Specification:
Essential Criteria:
Qualifications:
NEBOSH National General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety (or equivalent)
IOSH Membership or similar professional qualifications in Health and Safety
ISO 14001 certified
Degree or equivalent in Environmental Health, Safety Management, Engineering, or a related field
Experience:
Proven experience (5+ years) as a Health and Safety Manager, Officer, or similar role in the water and wastewater industry, or a closely related sector (e.g., utilities, environmental services)
Experience of developing and implementing health and safety systems in operational settings such as water treatment plants, wastewater facilities, or pumping stations
In-depth knowledge of relevant legislation, including the Health and Safety at Work Act, COSHH, and environmental regulations
Demonstrable experience in conducting risk assessments, safety audits, and investigations
Proven track record of driving safety culture improvements and reducing incident rates
Skills:
Strong knowledge of health and safety legislation, risk management, and emergency procedures specific to the water and wastewater sector
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence, train, and support staff at all levels
Proficient in preparing reports, safety documentation, and audit findings for internal and external stakeholders
Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to address health and safety concerns proactively
Excellent organisational skills, able to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain attention to detail
Strong IT skills, including familiarity with safety management software, Microsoft Office, and reporting tools
Personal Attributes:
Proactive and self-motivated with a passion for health and safety
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Resilient under pressure and capable of managing incidents and emergencies calmly and effectively
Strong leadership and decision-making skills
Commitment to continuous professional development in health and safety and environmental practices
Desirable Criteria:
Membership with professional bodies such as the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) or the British Safety Council
Experience in managing safety in a regulated environment such as utilities or construction
Knowledge of water treatment technologies and the associated health and safety challenges
Experience with environmental sustainability initiatives and waste management practices in water utilities
