Contact Us About Us
UK Career Advice

Occupational Health and Safety Specialist: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Career Overview
Interview Questions

What is a Occupational Health and Safety Specialist?

As an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist in the UK, you will work closely with employees to create a safe work environment by implementing and promoting health and safety measures within a company or organisation. Your job involves assessing potential risks, conducting accident investigations, and implementing strategies to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses.

How do I become a Occupational Health and Safety Specialist?

As an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist in the UK, you will work closely with employees to create a safe work environment by implementing and promoting health and safety measures within a company or organisation. Your job involves assessing potential risks, conducting accident investigations, and implementing strategies to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



Skills

  • Knowledge of health and safety regulations and legislation
  • Risk assessment and hazard identification skills
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Attention to detail and ability to analyze data
  • Ability to conduct inspections and audits
  • Problem-solving and decision-making abilities
  • Training and coaching skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Time management and organizational skills
  • Report writing and presentation skills

Qualifications & Education

  • NVQ/SVQ at Level 3 in Occupational Health and Safety Practice
  • Higher level accredited qualifications at Levels 4 to 6 achievable via the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health

Career Path

Occupational Health and Safety Specialist
Occupational Health and Safety Manager
Health and Safety Consultant
Risk Manager
Environmental Health and Safety Specialist
Safety Engineer
Compliance Officer
Industrial Hygienist
Construction Site Manager
Ergonomist

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a career in health and safety good?

Yes, a career in health and safety can be highly rewarding both personally and professionally.

What is the career progression in occupational health?

The career progression in occupational health includes moving into management and leading a team of occupational health staff or running an occupational health center, becoming self-employed and working as an occupational health consultant, working for a private company, or taking extra qualifications and going into nurse education or research.

Next: Interview Questions »