Purpose
Workshop and Safety Officers are essential for maintaining a safe, organized, and efficient work environment where team members can build and develop the vehicle. This role involves overseeing the day-to-day operations of the workshop while ensuring that all safety protocols are followed. Workshop and Safety Officers ensure that tools and materials are properly stored, equipment is maintained, and that team members adhere to safety regulations to prevent accidents or injuries. Additionally, this role involves conducting safety briefings, managing risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with university or industry safety standards while also coordinating the layout and organisation of the workshop to promote productivity and safety.
The primary purpose of this combined role is to create a safe and functional workspace that supports efficient vehicle development while prioritising the safety and well-being of all team members.
Goals
| Primary Goals |
|---|
| Ensure safe working environments |
| Maintain an organised and efficient workshop |
| Manage access to workspaces |
| Secondary Goals |
|---|
| Monitor and update safety documentation |
| Conduct safety training and inductions |
| Oversee chemical safety and disposal |
| Conduct cyclic inspections of workspaces and equipment |
Roles and Responsibilities
Safety Compliance and Risk Management
- Enforce safety protocols and ensure compliance with industry and university safety regulations.
- Conduct risk assessments to identify potential hazards and implement measures to mitigate risks.
- Ensure all team members adhere to safety guidelines and use personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.
Safety Training and Inductions
- Organise and conduct safety training and induction sessions for all team members, ensuring they are familiar with emergency procedures and safe handling of tools and materials.
- Update safety procedures and ensure new members complete the necessary training.
Chemical Safety and Disposal
- Manage the safe storage and handling of chemicals in accordance with safety guidelines.
- Coordinate chemical disposal by logging chemicals into systems like ChemWatch and arranging for proper disposal through external services.
Workshop Organisation and Maintenance
- Ensure the workshop is organised, with tools and materials properly stored and readily accessible.
- Manage inventory of tools and equipment, ensuring they are well-maintained and functional.
- Oversee the receipt of deliveries and ensure materials are accounted for and stored properly.
- Oversee the maintenance and servicing of fire extinguishers and first aid kits, ensuring they are up-to-date and accessible in the workspace.
- Liaise with external services for regular inspections and servicing of safety equipment.
Documentation and Reporting
- Maintain up-to-date safety and maintenance documentation, including risk assessments, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and safety inspection reports.
- Report safety incidents and near-misses, implementing corrective actions to prevent future occurrences.
Skills Exposure
| Soft Skills |
|---|
| Leadership and Team Coordination |
| Communication |
| Problem Solving |
| Organisation and Time Management |
| Technical Skills |
|---|
| Risk Assessment and Hazard Management |
| Safety and Compliance |
| Chemical Handling and Disposal |
| Workshop Management |
| Inventory Control and Maintenance |
Industry and Work Opportunities
The skills gained as a Workshop and Safety Officer provide a strong foundation for various career opportunities across multiple industries. In Occupational Health and Safety (OHS), professionals are sought after for roles like Safety Officer or Health and Safety Coordinator, where managing workplace safety, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations are critical. In workshop supervision and facility management, individuals oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring efficiency and maintaining safety standards, which is crucial in industries like manufacturing, automotive, and engineering.
The organizational and planning skills developed also open doors in operations management and logistics, where roles in industries such as aerospace or automotive involve managing equipment, inventory, and operational safety. Additionally, sectors like chemical, pharmaceutical, and environmental services require expertise in chemical safety and compliance with environmental regulations.
Furthermore, the experience in coordinating safety measures and resource management prepares individuals for roles in project management, particularly in industries that prioritize safety planning, resource allocation, and regulatory compliance.