Health and Safety Inspector Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In our increasingly regulated and safety-conscious world, the role of Health and Safety Inspectors has become more critical than ever.

With each passing day, industries grow, and the need for skilled professionals to monitor, assess and implement safety protocols in our workplaces becomes more vital.

But what’s really expected from a Health and Safety Inspector?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the responsibilities of health and safety inspection,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a comprehensive Health and Safety Inspector job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Health and Safety Inspector Duties and Responsibilities

Health and Safety Inspectors are tasked with the responsibility of ensuring that businesses comply with health and safety laws and regulations, in order to protect the well-being of employees, customers and the general public.

They typically have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Conduct regular inspections to ensure health and safety compliance at various workplaces
• Investigate accidents, injuries, and health-related complaints to determine causes and recommend preventive measures
• Review and evaluate health and safety policies and practices, and propose improvements as necessary
• Prepare and present reports detailing the outcome of inspections and investigations
• Enforce safety laws and regulations at the workplace
• Provide trainings and presentations on health and safety topics
• Develop and implement health and safety procedures in the workplace
• Work closely with managers and employees to create a culture of safety
• Keep abreast of latest developments in health and safety laws and regulations

 

Health and Safety Inspector Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a diligent Health and Safety Inspector to assess the safety and health conditions of our work environment.

The responsibilities of the Health and Safety Inspector include inspecting machinery and equipment, developing safety protocols, and ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

Our ideal candidate is detail-oriented, has a deep understanding of safety procedures and regulations, and possesses the ability to train and educate employees on safety protocols.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct regular safety inspections of facilities, machinery, and safety equipment
• Evaluate the effectiveness of safety programs
• Implement effective policies and procedures to maintain a safe and healthy work environment
• Prepare and present safety reports to management
• Identify potential hazards and propose corrective actions
• Train and educate employees on safety standards and regulations
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal safety laws
• Investigate accidents, incidents, and potential safety hazards
• Recommend solutions to issues that need improvement

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Health and Safety Inspector or similar role
• Knowledge of potentially hazardous materials or practices
• Experience in writing reports and policies for health and safety
• Familiarity with conducting data analysis and reporting statistics
• Proficient in MS Office; Working knowledge of safety management information systems is a plus
• Outstanding organizational skills
• Diligent with great attention to detail
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to present and explain health and safety topics
• BSc/BA in safety management or relevant field is preferred
• Valid qualification in occupational health and safety

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Health and Safety Inspector
• Work Environment: This role requires working in various environments including offices, industrial settings, and outdoor work sites.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Health and Safety Manager or Director of Operations.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Health and Safety Inspector Do?

Health and Safety Inspectors primarily work for governmental organizations, private companies or as independent consultants across various industries.

Their primary role is to ensure that workplaces adhere to health and safety regulations and standards.

They conduct regular inspections of workplaces to identify any potential hazards or risks that might harm employees or the public.

This can include checking machinery, work procedures, and the use of personal protective equipment.

Health and Safety Inspectors often have the authority to enforce compliance with health and safety legislation.

They can do this by issuing notices or penalties, and in severe cases, can close down workplaces until necessary improvements are made.

They also provide advice and guidance to employers on how to improve their health and safety procedures.

This can involve educating them on best practices, providing training, and assisting with the development of safety policies and procedures.

Health and Safety Inspectors are also tasked with investigating workplace accidents, incidents, and complaints.

They compile reports detailing their findings, which may be used in legal proceedings or to inform changes in health and safety legislation.

Their ultimate goal is to promote a safe working environment and prevent accidents and work-related illnesses.

 

Health and Safety Inspector Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Health and Safety Inspector should possess a wide array of skills and qualifications to successfully perform their job role, such as:

• Strong understanding and knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations to maintain and enforce compliance in the workplace.
• Exceptional observational skills to identify potential risks and hazards in the workplace and take necessary steps for prevention.
• Ability to interpret and apply safety standards and codes in various working environments.
• Excellent communication skills to clearly and effectively report findings, explain potential risks, and educate employers and employees about safety measures and practices.
• Proficient problem-solving abilities to provide recommendations and solutions to mitigate risks and ensure a safe work environment.
• Strong organizational skills to conduct thorough inspections, maintain detailed records, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Ability to use various inspection tools and equipment, and to understand and interpret technical data and diagrams.
• Good physical stamina to perform inspections in various work settings, which may require standing for long periods, climbing, crawling, and lifting heavy objects.

 

Health and Safety Inspector Experience Requirements

To pursue a career as a Health and Safety Inspector, individuals should have a bachelor’s degree in an applicable field such as safety management, industrial hygiene, or environmental health.

They may also need to have certifications from recognized safety organizations like the Board of Certified Safety Professionals or the American Board of Industrial Hygiene.

Entry-level health and safety inspectors may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an internship or part-time role in environmental health and safety.

They may also gain experience in related roles such as safety coordinator or environmental health assistant.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often deepen their understanding of laws, regulations, and industry standards in roles like Safety Analyst, Safety Engineer, or Environmental Health and Safety Manager.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have leadership experience and could be qualified for positions such as Safety Director or Health and Safety Manager.

They are expected to have a thorough understanding of safety regulations and the ability to develop and implement comprehensive safety programs.

In addition to these technical skills and experience, Health and Safety Inspectors should have strong communication skills, as they often need to explain complex laws and regulations to individuals without a safety background.

They should also be detail-oriented and have strong problem-solving skills, as they often need to identify safety risks and develop solutions to mitigate those risks.

 

Health and Safety Inspector Education and Training Requirements

Health and Safety Inspectors typically require a bachelor’s degree in occupational health, safety, or a related scientific field such as biology, chemistry, or engineering.

In addition to their degree, they should have a strong understanding of safety protocols, inspection procedures and legal regulations related to health and safety.

Many positions often require inspectors to have previous experience, this can be gained through internships or entry-level positions in health and safety.

Some states or employers may also require Health and Safety Inspectors to hold a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) certification.

These certifications may involve passing an exam, maintaining continuing education units, and gaining work experience in the field.

In-depth knowledge of safety equipment and procedures, hazardous materials management, and federal and state safety laws is beneficial.

For certain specialized roles, a master’s degree in industrial hygiene, health physics, or a related subject may be necessary.

Ongoing professional development and training are also important as they help Inspectors stay updated on the latest safety regulations and inspection techniques.

 

Health and Safety Inspector Salary Expectations

A Health and Safety Inspector can expect an average salary of $70,480 (USD) per year.

This figure can differ based on factors such as years of experience, certifications, the industry in which they work, and the geographical location.

 

Health and Safety Inspector Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Health and Safety Inspector need?

Health and Safety Inspectors should have excellent observational skills to identify potential hazards and determine the safety of various environments.

They should also have strong communication and interpersonal skills to relay safety information and regulations effectively to employers and employees.

Their problem-solving skills and understanding of safety standards and regulations are also crucial for this role.

 

Do Health and Safety Inspectors need a degree?

Yes, Health and Safety Inspectors typically need a bachelor’s degree in occupational health, safety, or a related scientific field.

Some roles may require a master’s degree, particularly in industrial hygiene or health physics.

In addition to the educational requirements, inspectors may also need certification from organizations such as the Board of Certified Safety Professionals.

 

What should you look for in a Health and Safety Inspector resume?

A Health and Safety Inspector’s resume should highlight their education in relevant fields and any certifications they hold.

It should also showcase their experience in conducting safety inspections, identifying potential hazards, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.

Any experience in training or educating employees about safety practices would also be an asset.

 

What qualities make a good Health and Safety Inspector?

A good Health and Safety Inspector is diligent and meticulous, with a keen eye for detail to identify potential safety hazards.

They should have a deep understanding of health and safety regulations and the ability to apply them to various work environments.

They should also be able to communicate effectively, providing clear instructions and feedback to employers and employees about necessary safety improvements.

 

Is it difficult to hire Health and Safety Inspectors?

Recruiting Health and Safety Inspectors can be challenging due to the specific educational and certification requirements for the role.

Employers will also need to find candidates who have the right combination of technical knowledge, practical experience, and soft skills such as communication and problem-solving.

Offering competitive salaries, ongoing training opportunities, and a positive work environment can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve taken a deep dive into what it truly means to be a Health and Safety Inspector.

Guess what?

It’s not just about ticking boxes.

It’s about safeguarding lives, one inspection at a time.

With our essential Health and Safety Inspector job description template and real-world examples, you’re more than ready to take action.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precise job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every inspection is part of a greater mission.

Let’s ensure a safer future. Together.

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