Safety Manager Requirements

All industries are concerned with their safety records. Companies want to keep injuries and illnesses at a minimum so that insurance rates do not climb, so that productivity does not suffer because of missed time and because they want to protect their staff and customers. Many companies designate a management staffer who takes on safety duties, or hire a person whose main job is to oversee safety. These safety managers are required to take on several responsibilities.

Train and Teach Regulations

• The safety manager is required to train all employees on how to do their jobs in a safe manner. He is also responsible for making sure everyone is aware of the company's safety regulations and procedures, according to CollegeCrunch.com.

  When a new employee comes aboard, the safety manager is likely to be the one who meets with her to explain the safety rules associated with her job. Often this may include distributing a safety manual used by the company and possibly testing the new hire's knowledge during orientation. There is likely to be an orientation speech concerning safety as well and potentially a video the safety manager will have the new employee watch. The safety manager should make himself available to the new employees to discuss or clear up safety concerns.

Monitor Workers and Environment

• During the day-to-day operation, the safety manager should be constantly monitoring all aspects of the business to ensure safety regulations are being followed. If the job requires protective eyewear, for example, the safety manager should be out on the floor enforcing the rule.

  The safety manager is also concerned about the safety of the work environment. If broken or unsafe equipment is in use, he should immediately make it a priority to remedy the conditions and return it to a safe operation. The safety manager thoroughly inspects all areas of the workplace to determine if hazards exist or if it may be possible to make the environment safer.

Develop Safety Policy

• In many businesses, the safety manager is responsible for developing and implementing a safety policy. This aspect of the job may include writing a document that details all the rules and regulations concerning safety within the company.

  Once the policy is completed, there is likely a conference with upper management to discuss the policy, an approval process and then implementation. The safety manager may be required to set up safety meetings to distribute new policies or update employees on changes.

Emergency Preparedness

• The safety manager should spearhead all emergency preparedness for the company. This may include developing fire escape routes and procedures, severe weather procedures or other dangerous circumstances relevant to the company. There should also be occasional drills to give workers a chance to practice the plans so all goes smoothly in an actual emergency.