Plastics Health and Safety Supervisor
With the operation of plastic processing technologies, the Plastics Health and Safety Supervisor deals with personal health and safety issues in the work environment for workers at all levels.
Job Description
A chalkboard on the factory floor of the Rockhaven Foam Company proudly displays the company record: 320 days without workplace injury or accident! This accomplishment is a result of the company’s safety program.
An effective safety program requires more than just safety shoes and glasses, ear plugs, hard hats, and posters. Such a program requires a mindset, a company-wide philosophy, and a practical strategy for on-the-job safety that is spelled out clearly and emphasized at every level of the plastics company. The Plastics Health and Safety Supervisor deals with personal health and safety issues related to the plastics processing technologies work environment.
Daily Activities
- trains workers on health and safety issues
- inspects facilities and machinery
- consults health and safety manuals and standards
- conducts tests on workplace conditions
- writes reports of findings
The Plastics Health and Safety Supervisor will devise, plan, implement, or coordinate safety or industrial health programs to prevent or correct unsafe environmental working conditions. This requires knowledge of plastics materials, emissions from resin decomposition, and emissions during processing, to coordinate an effective, safe workplace. The supervisor must also be aware of regulatory and legal aspects of the operations within a company.
The Supervisor, along with his or her health and safety team will inspect facilities, machinery, and safety equipment to identify and correct potential hazards, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. The Supervisor will also conduct or direct testing of air quality, noise, temperature, or radiation to verify compliance with health and safety regulations. It is also important to conduct plant or area surveys to determine safety levels for exposure to materials and conditions.
Reports of findings from investigation of accidents, inspection of facilities, or testing of environment are part of the administrative role of the Plastics Health and Safety Supervisor. As well, it is necessary to conduct or coordinate training of workers concerning safety laws and regulations, use of safety equipment, devices, clothing, and first aid. The Supervisor may also maintain liaison with outside organizations, such as fire departments, mutual aid societies, and rescue teams. A safe workplace only leads to higher morale, while reducing health and safety costs.