Health and Safety Specialist

The Health and Safety Specialist supports production activities by ensuring work is completed safely and efficiently while ensuring compliance with the Nova Scotia Occupational Health and Safety Act & Regulations, Irving Shipbuilding (ISI) Policy & Procedures along with Industry Best Practices.

The Health and Safety Specialist will also act as the gas free certification subject matter expert for all ISI Production and Facilities/Maintenance operations in designated areas for confined spaces and hot work. This role will ensure that suitable risk assessments are performed, and all hazards are controlled and communicated on the gas free certificate prior to any work commencing / required for operations.

• Conduct thorough focus inspections across all departments and facilities to identify potential health and safety risks within the assigned work location (e.g. paint booth, PPE, ventilation).
• Complete updates and reviews of HSE Policies and Procedures for compliance with the latest version of applicable Provincial Regulations and CSA Standards.
• Assist in the education of employees and development of training programs to support proper understanding and implementation of OHS practices and procedures.
• Actively control and monitor gas testing operations in their assigned areas, with flexibility to move around site as required to meet business needs.
• Facilitate completion of Risk Assessments and Hazard Identification with Hazard Owner(s) by examining physical hazards, chemical exposures, ergonomic issues, and other factors. Carry out a thorough risk assessment, and ensure all required mitigations are in place, before certifying hot work activities and confined space entries for the requested scope of work, i.e. hot work, painting, inspection. Based on associated risks, determine the frequency of certification/testing required. This includes entering confined space/compartments to test atmospheres and evaluate the space for hazards such as flammables and combustibles.
• Calibrating/maintaining the instruments used for atmospheric testing Gas Monitors.

• Post Secondary OHS Diploma or certification.
  • A combination of knowledge and experience would also be considered.
  • Ability to obtain National Construction Safety Officer (NCSO) designation (or equivalent), Authorized Gas Free Testing qualification, First Aid/CPR/AED certifications, and WHMIS training & certifications.
• 2-5 years of demonstrated success in a safety role in an industrial environment.
• An ability to facilitate training and conduct effective presentations to provide sound professional advice and direction for health and safety related matters within various levels of the organization.
• Working knowledge of provincial and federal OHS legislation.
• Experience in root cause analysis with keen investigation and analytical skills.
• Proficiency with various Microsoft Office products.
• Ability to communicate with and influence front line workers and supervision.
• Strong communication, interpersonal and organizational skills.

Due to the nature of work Irving Shipbuilding does, all successful applicants must meet requirements for the Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP), Canadian Government Security clearance, and U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).

Please note this position requires a full-time, in-office presence.