How to Become a Safety Director
Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Safety Director
What does a Safety Director do?
A Safety Director directs, develops, and oversees the general health and safety policies and procedures of the organization. Ensures the workplace is in compliance with OSHA and other state, local, or industry specific regulations and that periodic safety audits are conducted. Being a Safety Director provides programs that ensure a safe workplace including safety orientations, skill training, emergency preparedness, proper job instruction, hazardous material disposal procedures, and the use of protective equipment. Develops a systemic process to collect data and analyze the causes of accidents and generate required reporting. Additionally, Safety Director implements initiatives to reduce and prevent accidents, occupational illnesses, and exposure to long-term health hazards. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to top management. The Safety Director manages a departmental sub-function within a broader departmental function. Creates functional strategies and specific objectives for the sub-function and develops budgets/policies/procedures to support the functional infrastructure. Deep knowledge of the managed sub-function and solid knowledge of the overall departmental function. To be a Safety Director typically requires 5+ years of managerial experience.
A safety director may work in any type of industry or corporation.
Heading special projects as well as working on routine daily activities are the typical general duties of a safety director.
For example, safety director jobs tend to focus on both emergency preparedness issues and regular inspection policies.
Safety directors ensure that these inspections are carried out properly.
Safety directors manage fire drills and send emergency evacuation plan details to managers.
Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Safety Director
Best tips for those who want to become a Safety Director
Here are some tips to become a Safety Director.
Don’t be afraid to take a unique path to your goal.
Appoint a designated health and safety officer.
Create a health and safety policy.
WALKINGAlways be alert to your surroundings is the number one Crime Prevention advice.
PICKPOCKETSAlways be aware of pickpockets in crowded situations – such as trains & buses, department stores, or waiting on long lines.
Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Safety Director
Best colleges and universities for Safety Director
- Butler University
- Carroll College
- High Point University
- Princeton University
- Providence College
- Rollins College
Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Safety Director
Is being a Safety Director Worth it?
Denver public safety chief Troy Riggs resigning after less than 2 years on the job.
The resignation also triggers questions about who is running the public safety department.
When Denver Mayor Michael Hancock announced Riggs as Denver’s next public safety director, it was the eighth job change for Riggs in less than 10 years.
During the two-hour interview, Riggs talked about his plans for tackling increasing violence in Denver, pushing the sheriff’s department to complete its reform, his relationship with police Chief Robert White and life outside public safety.
Already, Riggs said too many efforts in the safety department get bogged down in the legal process.
Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Safety Director
What skills do you need to be a Safety Director?
Management is no easy task, and as such, the skill requirements for these types of roles vary greatly. Chief skills for this role are: Job Hazard Analysis, OSHA Standards & Compliance, Safety Inspections, Safety Management, Safety Policies and Procedures, Safety Training/Orientations, Hazardous Waste Clean-up Procedures. Expertise in these areas will help you land this, or a similar role.
When hiring for the role of a safety director, most employers will expect you to meet the following requirements and qualifications to be able to gain an interview appointment.
This is needed so as to be able to explain safety guidelines clearly to employees of the organization.
A minimum of 2 years relevant work experience as a safety manager/director.
As a safety director, you will apply your experienced leadership and organizational skills in conjunction with expert knowledge of health and safety to set, achieve, and improve organizational safety goals.
Safety directors need analytical skills and good attention to detail to spot potential safety hazards and design effective plans to reduce incidents and injuries of all types.
Step 6: View average salary for Safety Director
How much does a Safety Director make?
The average salary range for a Safety Director is from $135,316 to $182,787. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.
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Step 7: Find relevant Safety Director jobs, and apply.
Looking for Safety Director jobs?
Here are some Safety Director jobs in the United States.