Laboratory Safety Officer

Description

1. Job Details

Job Title : Laboratory Safety Officer

Reports to : Research Safety Manager

Job Family : HR will complete

Job Function : HR will complete

2. Job Purpose

Ensure a safe working environment in laboratory settings by implementing and monitoring HSE policies and procedures.

Conduct risk assessments and enforce compliance with safety regulations.

Oversee hazardous material handling.

Provide training to laboratory personnel.

3. Job Dimensions

Accountability for annual operating budget / project budget / sales revenue : Contributory

Magnitude of financial accountability : n / a

staff supervised : 0

direct reports : 0

contractors / others : 0

4. Key Result Areas

Regulatory Compliance

Ensure compliance with HSE regulations (OSHA, ISO 45001, ISO 14001).

Conduct laboratory inspections and audits.

Implement and enforce HSE policies and procedures.

Technical and Project Contribution

Ensure proper handling, storage, labeling, and disposal of hazardous chemicals and biological agents.

Maintain chemical inventory and compliance with MSDS.

Monitor fume hoods, ventilation systems, and spill containment.

Assist HSE Manager in reviewing lab designs and modifications.

Ensure lab designs meet safety and building codes, including hazard operability reviews.

Oversee proper disposal of lab waste (chemical, biological, radioactive).

Ensure compliance with environmental protection standards.

Maintain hazardous waste disposal logs and reports.

Ensure proper use of PPE by lab personnel.

Inspect and maintain safety equipment (fire extinguishers, eyewash, fume hoods).

Risk Assessment and Management

Identify hazards related to lab operations, equipment, and chemicals.

Develop and update risk assessments and SDS.

Recommend and implement risk control measures.

Training and Education

Conduct training and toolbox talks for staff and contractors.

Create training materials (presentations, handouts, online modules).

Ensure all employees understand safety policies and emergency protocols.

Track and document training records.

Incident Investigation and Reporting

Investigate accidents, near misses, and exposure incidents.

Prepare detailed reports with root cause analysis and corrective actions.

Ensure timely reporting and documentation.

Inspections and Audits

Perform inspections, audits, fire risk assessments, and other evaluations.

Conduct thorough safety inspections of facilities, equipment, and practices.

Use checklists to evaluate safety.

Identify and correct non-compliance issues.

Prepare inspection reports and communicate findings.

Assist with external audits.

Emergency Preparedness

Coordinate emergency drills and training.

Serve on the HSE spill response team.

Organize fire drills, spill response, and first-aid training.

Act as a contact for emergency response teams.

Day-to-day Routine Activities

Assist HSE Manager in strategies, monitoring, and reporting.

Ensure subcontractors comply with HSE procedures.

Inspect facilities, machinery, and safety equipment.

Perform additional tasks as assigned.

Documentation and Record-Keeping

Maintain safety records.

Prepare and present reports to management with safety metrics and recommendations.

Contribute to monthly HSE reports.

5. Operating Environment, Framework & Boundaries

Work performed in office and field settings.

Travel to university buildings or agencies may be required.

Availability for emergencies outside working hours.

Extreme working conditions at times.

Exposure to hazardous animals, plants, chemicals, or substances.

Safety gear / PPE required.

Physical inspections may involve standing, walking, bending, climbing, and lifting.

Work in confined spaces, heights, and varying temperatures.

6. Communications and Working Relationships

Supervisor (line manager)

Report compliance status, risk assessments, incidents.

Provide updates on sustainability initiatives.

Present audit and inspection findings.

Report daily activities requiring approval / advice.

HSE Team

Coordinate risk assessments, audits, and training.

Share best practices and updates.

Collaborate on emergency response.

Facilities Management Personnel / Contractors

Ensure safety in daily operations.

Address environmental hazards and compliance issues.

Coordinate inspections and maintenance.

Regulatory Agencies / Community & Stakeholders

Submit compliance reports.

Respond to inspections and inquiries.

Collaborate during third-party inspections.

Implement audit recommendations.

Participate in forums and professional networks.

7. Competencies

Behavioural Competencies Level : HR will complete

Functional Competencies Level : HR will complete

Cross-Functional Competencies Level : HR will complete

8. Minimum Knowledge, Skills & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical / Environmental / Mechanical Engineering, Occupational Health and Safety, Industrial Hygiene, or related field.

Preferred certifications : CSP, CIH, NEBOSH IGC, CHST, PMP.

Understanding of academic research environment and culture.

Technical proficiencies (plus) : chemical synthesis, engineering, ventilation, high-pressure systems, hazardous gas delivery, process safety, shop safety.

3–5 years of EHS experience.

Academic / research experience is a plus.

Proven risk assessment, audit, and compliance reporting experience.

Knowledge of OSHA, EPA, IOSH, NFPA, CDC, FEMA, DOT, Qatar Environmental law.

Excellent communication and training skills.

Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Proficiency in ISO management systems (ISO 14001, 45001, 9001).

Proficiency in MS Office, Power Bi, and HSE applications.

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