SAFETY OFFICER - Onondaga County (NY) : Job Details

SAFETY OFFICER 42130 (Competitive)

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

The work involves responsibility for designing and implementing health and safety standards, and establishing and implementing safety programs and operating procedures which encompass current recognized standards for employee and environmental safety in order to avoid or protect against accidents and to improve safety. An employee in this class prepares and conducts employee training, establishes safety standards, performs building inspections and coordinates toxic substance training and inspection. This classification is designated to be a safety generalist with work assignments dependent upon the jurisdiction or department to which assigned, the services provided and the equipment used by the organization. Supervision is received from an administrative superior who allows the incumbent initiative and independence in planning and implementation of safety plans and training. Supervision may be exercised over a clerical support employee or staff engaged in safety training. Certain assignments made to employees in this class will require reasonable access to transportation to meet in the ordinary course of business in a timely and efficient manner. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Designs safety programs applicable to departmental functions including equipment and facilities used.

Determines appropriate training resources based on specific safety concerns or hazards.

Informs department administration of operating procedures not in compliance with State or federal safety guidelines and makes recommendations to improve or correct deficiencies.

Identifies potential unsafe working conditions.

Performs work place inspections and works with supervisory personnel to insure ongoing compliance with health and safety programs and regulations.

Coordinates reporting requirements when accidents occur to insure compliance with all rules and regulations.

Conducts research and studies to determine causes of accidents and prepares reports as necessary.

Perform buildings and grounds inspection as needed to identify unsafe conditions or compliance with regulations.

Recommends specific safety programs to reduce accidents.

Recommends purchase of appropriate safety equipment.

Advises employees who are at risk from hazardous substances at the work site according to state and federal regulations.

Stays abreast of developments in the field of health and safety by reviewing current literature and publications, including rules, laws, and regulations and attending conferences.

Acts as liaison with federal, state and local agencies concerned with safety standards and hazardous conditions.

May train employees in recognizing and handling toxic substances in accordance with Right To Know Hazardous Communications Standards, AHERA provisions, disaster preparedness, fire and building code compliance, and hazardous waste disposal.

May conduct employee training relating to vehicle usage or machinery usage.

May supervise staff engaged in safety training activities.

Maintains records and files as required.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Good knowledge of federal, state and departmental laws, rules and regulations regarding employee and occupational health and safety.

Good knowledge of OSHA, SASA, AHERA and Right To Know.

Good knowledge of the principals and techniques of safety training.

Good knowledge of the current literature, recent developments and other sources of information relating to safety programs.

Ability to develop and implement a comprehensive safety program for the personnel usage, services provided and equipment used by the organization.

Ability to make detailed field inspections and to recognize potential safety and health hazards.

Ability to keep accurate records and to prepare clear and concise reports.

Ability to deal effectively with department heads, supervisory personnel, employees and the public.

Ability to instruct and train others in safety procedures.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Open Competitive

Two (2) years of professional level work experience, or its part time equivalent, in developing and implementing an official safety program or safety education program.

NOTE Completion of a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university may substitute for one (1) year of professional level work experience as defined above.

Special Necessary Requirement

When required to operate a motor vehicle, possession of a valid New York State Non-CDL or CDL, including any

special endorsements, as required for the type of vehicle being operated. Where possession of a license is required, eligibility for and continued possession of the license is required for employment.

Possession of Excavator Certification is required to perform excavation duties in accordance with New York State General Business Law. Certification must be obtained during the probationary period. Training will commence upon appointment. Eligibility for and continued possession of the license is required for employment.

When assigned to the Onondaga County Department of Transportation

Must possess the appropriate license(s) and endorsement(s) for equipment used for training sessions.

Promotion

One (1) year of permanent competitive class status in the title of Safety Training Instructor, or; two (2) years of permanent competitive class status in the title of Equipment Operator Instructor.

9/2019 REVISED

11/2024 REVISED