Laboratory Chemical Safety Specialist 1

Role Objective

The Laboratory Chemicals Safety Specialist assists the Laboratory Safety Manager to accomplish activities that are related to protection of human health. They assist with monitoring and implementation of compliance strategies, policies, procedures, practices, and maintenance of licenses. They must understand safety & health requirements and how research operations relate to those regulations. The Laboratory Chemicals Safety Specialist will assist with oversight of the safety & health program of the Organization. They will assist with the development, implementation and monitoring of the safety & health program, procedures and practices. The Laboratory Chemicals Safety Specialist will assist with the identification of process improvements and ensure compliance with safety & health procedures and practices across the organization. The Laboratory Chemicals Safety Specialist will conduct safety & health audits and assessments, identifying and suggesting corrective actions for performance deficiencies.

Key Responsibilities

Assist in developing Laboratory Safety Manuals (LSM) for each laboratory

Oversee and audit implementation of laboratory safety plans

Assist the Laboratory Safety Manager with Safety & Health Plan implementation

Ensure effective implementation of company policies and procedures

Establish safe chemical quantity storage volumes for laboratories based on building codes and research requirements

Define safe storage requirements for consumables across laboratories, research complex utility buildings, and warehouse facilities

Manage correct utilization of chemical and biological materials, ventilation systems, and laboratory equipment

Coordinate with Environmental Programs for safe disposal of hazardous substances

Ensure organizational compliance with current requirements, standards, approved codes of practice, and health and safety guidance

Verify subcontractors conducting work affecting safety and health comply with organizational procedures and processes

Maintain current knowledge of applicable regulations and standards

Conduct regular site inspections to verify safety and health policies and procedures are properly implemented

Identify deficiencies and opportunities for improvement; record observations in issues management system

Conduct audits to evaluate effectiveness of health and safety systems and procedures

Conduct risk assessments and recommend risk reduction strategies

Investigate accident circumstances and causes; implement preventive measures

Work proactively with organizational staff to establish and maintain a culture of safe working practices

Promote and raise awareness of safety and health responsibilities at all organizational levels

Convey Safety & Health Program expectations to facility personnel and users

Provide working interface and line of communication with internal and external organizations on Safety & Health matters

Support facility users and researchers in specialized health areas (occupational exposure, ergonomics, noise, occupational diseases)

Identify and recommend corrective actions for performance deficiencies

Take appropriate action to mitigate likelihood and impact of health and safety risks

Maintain training and professional qualifications

Update job knowledge through educational opportunities, professional publications, and professional organizations

Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in relevant discipline (Chemistry, Environmental Science, Occupational Health & Safety, Engineering, or related field)

Experience: Minimum 5 years in laboratory safety, occupational health & safety, or equivalent

Skills: Chemical safety management, audit/assessment expertise, risk analysis, regulatory knowledge, strong communication

Preferred Certifications: CSP, NEBOSH, IOSH, or Hazardous Materials Management certification

Knowledge & Skills

Thorough understanding of laboratory safety regulations, standards, and best practices

Knowledge of chemical storage, handling, and disposal requirements

Proficiency with safety management systems and documentation

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Ability to work collaboratively across organizational levels

Analytical and problem-solving capabilities

Attention to detail and organizational skills

Ability to conduct effective audits and assessments

Certifications (Preferred)

Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or equivalent

NEBOSH, IOSH, or similar occupational health and safety certification

Hazardous Materials Management certification

Technical Competencies

Proficiency with safety management software and databases

Ability to interpret technical safety documentation and regulations

Competency in risk assessment methodologies

Familiarity with laboratory equipment and ventilation systems

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

Ability to conduct regular site inspections and walk laboratory facilities

Ability to lift and handle documentation and safety equipment as needed

Exposure to laboratory environments, chemicals, and equipment

Occasional travel to other organizational facilities

Standard office environment with computer workstation

Reporting & Accountability

This position is reported directly to the Laboratory Safety Manager and is accountable for:

Timely completion of safety audits and assessments

Accuracy of safety documentation and reports

Compliance with organizational safety policies

Effectiveness of corrective action recommendations

Maintenance of professional qualifications and certifications