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What does a Safety Director do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A safety director is responsible for the development and implementation of safety policies and procedures in an organization. They work to create a safe working environment for employees and to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. They also investigate accidents and incidents, and develop plans to prevent future ones.

Safety Director job duties include:

  • Establish and maintain an effective safety and health program.
  • Plan, implement, and evaluate safety and health activities.
  • Investigate accidents, injuries, and occupational diseases.
  • Identify and correct potential hazards.
  • Train employees in safety procedures.
  • Enforce safety rules and regulations.
  • Inspect facilities, machinery, and equipment for compliance with safety standards.
  • Prepare reports on safety activities and incidents.
  • Keep abreast of new safety regulations and developments.

Safety Director Job Requirements

Most safety directors have a bachelor's degree in occupational safety, engineering, or a related field. Some employers may prefer candidates who have a master's degree in occupational safety or a related field. Certification as a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) is often required or preferred. Many safety directors have several years of experience working in the safety field.

Safety Director Skills

  • OSHA compliance
  • Safety audits
  • Risk assessments
  • Investigation of accidents
  • Development of safety programs
  • Implementation of safety policies
  • Employee training
  • Supervision of safety staff
  • Budgeting for safety initiatives
  • Recordkeeping
  • Report writing
  • Presentations

Related: Top Safety Director Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Safety Director

The role of a Safety Director is to ensure the safety of employees in the workplace. They are responsible for developing and implementing safety policies and procedures, conducting safety audits and investigations, and providing training on safety topics.

To become a Safety Director, you will need to have a strong background in safety management. You should have experience working in a variety of industries and be familiar with OSHA regulations. You will also need to be an excellent communicator and have strong interpersonal skills.

If you are interested in becoming a Safety Director, there are a few steps you can take to get started. First, consider pursuing a degree in occupational safety or a related field. This will give you the knowledge and skills you need to be successful in this role. Second, gain experience working in safety-related positions. This will help you develop the practical skills needed to be a successful Safety Director. Finally, consider obtaining certification from a professional organization such as the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. This will demonstrate your commitment to the profession and give you an edge when applying for jobs.

Related: Safety Director Resume Example

Related: Safety Director Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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