Safety Specialist

Under general supervision, the Safety Specialist develops, implements, administers, and monitors workplace safety programs to promote a safe work environment and ensure compliance with applicable California Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) regulations. The position inspects District facilities, equipment, and personal protective equipment; performs or coordinates corrective actions to address identified safety hazards; evaluates new equipment and personal protective equipment for compliance with safety requirements;

provides on-site safety support to field crews performing confined-space entries and other high-hazard work; orders and maintains an inventory of safety supplies and equipment; updates safety plans and programs; prepares and maintains required reports and records; and coordinates, conducts, and documents workplace safety training.

This position does not include supervisory responsibilities.

This is an intermediate level position providing Districtwide safety and risk management support. The Safety Specialist works independently, performing a variety of field inspections and corrections, field safety support, regulation analysis, plan updates, training presentations, and recordkeeping. The duties listed below are illustrative and are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities assigned to this classification.

• Develops, implements, and maintains safety policies, programs, and procedures in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

• Monitors changes in safety laws, regulations, and industry practices and recommends updates to District policies and programs.
• Assists in preparing and updating policies, procedures, plans, programs, forms, and other materials related to employee safety and risk management.
• Maintains safety and risk management records, documentation, reports, and permits in accordance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements.

• Develops, coordinates, and conducts classroom and field-based safety training, including tailgate meetings and District-specific presentations.
• Inspects District facilities, structures, equipment, and operations to identify safety hazards; documents findings; recommend corrective actions; and follows up to verify that required corrections have been completed.
• Performs field corrections to address identified safety hazards when feasible and within the scope of the position’s training and authority, and coordinates more extensive corrective work with appropriate District personnel or contractors.
• Provides on-site safety support to field crews and inspection teams evaluating District facilities, structures, pipelines, and other infrastructure.

• Administers and maintains the District’s fall protection and confined-space safety programs.

• Reviews confined-space entry permits, atmospheric testing results, ventilation, personal protective equipment, communication methods, and rescue procedures before entry.

• Serves as a confined-space entry supervisor when designated and qualified, including verifying that required procedures, testing, equipment, and rescue services are in place.
• Receives, documents, evaluates, and responds to employee inquiries and concerns regarding workplace safety.
• Conducts on-site Job Hazard Analyses to identify potential hazards, recommend safe work methods, and assist in developing appropriate best management practices.
• Participates in the investigation of employee injuries, vehicle accidents, property damage incidents, and other safety-related events to identify contributing factors and recommend corrective actions.
• Responds to the scene of vehicle accidents and other incidents as appropriate; gathers and documents relevant information; and prepares required accident and safety-related reports.
• Implements or coordinates safety training, program revisions, procedural changes, and equipment improvements needed to address identified hazards and prevent similar incidents from recurring.
• Coordinates with occupational health providers regarding routine employee health screenings and the evaluation and treatment of employees who…