How to Become a Safety Specialist
Category: Career Spotlights, Jobs
Explore the career journey of a safety specialist. From lab experience to workplace safety, this video highlights responsibilities, challenges, and rewards while offering valuable advice for aspiring safety professionals.
Career Insights From a Safety Specialist
This safety specialist, Dan, started his career in oceanography and transitioned into workplace safety after nearly two decades at sea. “I worked 18 years in an oceanography chemistry lab, studying the ocean, sailing on ships all over the world. Then, once I had a child and needed to settle down and be more stable, I entered the safety industry.”
Now working as a safety specialist at the University of California, San Diego, he describes it as a rewarding and flexible role. “It’s a great job. I love it, and I recommend it to anyone.”
One of the most appealing parts of the job is the independence. “The average day or week is setting your own schedule, which is a nice feature of the job. I make appointments, and then I do inspections.”
These inspections involve using a checklist to ensure people are working safely and following proper procedures. “I walk into a location and use my checklist to make sure everyone is applying the rules and regulations and working safely.”
The job requires strong communication, attention to detail, and a background in science. “As a safety specialist, I recommend that you get a degree in any sort of science background.”
It’s not always easy, especially when enforcing compliance. “Sometimes we have to issue demerits… That can be sometimes challenging, but overall, if you just follow your checklist and give people resources and ideas on how to do better, then everyone’s happy.”
Their advice for getting started: “Get a college degree, get your foot in the door early, and commit to the career path… There’s always a need for a safety person in every field.”
Common FAQs About Becoming a Safety Specialist
What does a safety specialist do?
A safety specialist is responsible for ensuring that workplaces follow safety regulations and procedures. This includes conducting inspections, providing safety training, and recommending improvements to create a safe work environment.
What education is required to become a safety specialist?
A college degree in any science-related field is often recommended. “As a safety specialist, I recommend that you get a degree in any sort of science background.” This foundation helps with understanding technical environments and regulatory compliance.
What kind of background helps in this field?
Experience in laboratory, manufacturing, or technical settings can be useful. The featured specialist transitioned from oceanography into safety, showing how transferable scientific knowledge can be.
What does a typical day look like?
Safety specialists often set their own schedules, make appointments, and conduct inspections. “I have a checklist and iPad, and I walk into a location and use my checklist to make sure everyone is applying the rules.”
What tools or systems do safety specialists use?
Many use digital checklists and reporting systems to track compliance. They rely on detailed observations and often follow up with written reports and improvement plans.
What are the pros of working as a safety specialist?
Flexible scheduling and making a meaningful impact are top benefits. “It’s very rewarding when people reach out to you and are asking how to become safer and how they can follow the rules and comply with regulations.”
What are the biggest challenges in this role?
Enforcing compliance can be tough. “Sometimes we have to issue demerits… That can be sometimes challenging.” The role requires clear communication and professionalism, even in tough situations.
What industries hire safety specialists?
Nearly every industry requires safety professionals, including universities, healthcare, labs, construction, manufacturing, and government organizations.
How can someone get started in this career?
Start with a science degree and gain hands-on experience. “Get your foot in the door early, and commit to the career path.” Entry-level safety roles or internships can help build experience.
Is this a good long-term career?
Yes. “There’s always a need for a safety person in every field.” The role offers job security, flexibility, and a sense of purpose for those who enjoy helping others work safely.
