Health and Safety Officer / H&S in Southampton

We have a fantastic new job opportunity for a Health and Safety Officer with proven experience in an H&S role, a recognised qualification, NEBOSH or equivalent and excellent organisational and communication skills. Working as the Health and Safety Officer you will be responsible for ensuring a safe and healthy environment for all students, staff, and visitors across all schools within the Trust. You will have the scope to reshape current policies and procedures, introduce new practices and advise the Trust’s most senior leaders.

As you conduct regular audits/inspections, risk assessments and roll out training programmes you will ensure that health and safety is fully embedded in daily activity. Working as the Health and Safety Officer you will continually refresh your expertise of legislation and best practice and build networks with other external health and safety experts.

DUTIES

• Policy and Procedure Development & Implementation
  • Develop, review, and update the health and safety policies, procedures, and guidance in line with current legislation and best practice.
  • Ensure all policies and procedures are communicated effectively to all staff and stakeholders.
  • Implement robust systems for recording, investigating, and reporting accidents, incidents, and near misses.
• Risk Management
  • Conduct regular health and safety risk assessments across all sites, identifying potential hazards and recommending appropriate control measures.
  • Maintain a comprehensive risk register and ensure that identified risks are managed effectively and reviewed regularly.
  • Advise on risk mitigation strategies for all Trust activities, including educational visits and extra-curricular activities.
• Compliance and Monitoring
  • Ensure the Trust's compliance with all relevant health and safety legislation, regulations, and approved codes of practice (HASAWA, COSHH, RIDDOR, Fire Safety Order).
  • Conduct regular health and safety audits and inspections across all three schools.
  • Maintain accurate records of all health and safety activities, including training, inspections, and incident reports.
  • Liaise with external bodies such as the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and local authorities as required.
• Training and Awareness
  • Develop and deliver health and safety training programs for staff at all levels, including induction training and specialist training (first aid, fire warden).
  • Provide expert advice and guidance to school leaders, staff, and the Trust Board on all health and safety matters.
• Accident and Incident Management
  • Lead the investigation of all accidents, incidents, and near misses, identifying root causes and recommending preventative measures.
  • Ensure accurate and timely reporting of reportable incidents to the relevant authorities (RIDDOR).
  • Monitor trends in accidents and incidents to identify areas for targeted intervention.
• Contractor Management
  • Advise on health and safety aspects of contractor selection and management, ensuring contractors work safely on Trust premises.
  • Review contractor method statements and risk assessments.
• Emergency Planning
  • Assist with the development and review of emergency plans for all Trust schools, including fire safety plans and critical incident responses.
  • Participate in emergency drills and exercises.

CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS

• Recognised health and safety qualification (NEBOSH National General Certificate or equivalent).
• Proven experience in a health and safety role, preferably within an education or multi-site environment.
• In-depth knowledge of UK health and safety legislation and best practices.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with staff at all levels.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Proficient in IT, including Microsoft Office suite.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Full UK driving license and access to a vehicle for travel between Trust sites.

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The school will ensure that all their recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service / DBS checks along with other relevant employment checks.