Health And Safety Advisor in Birmingham

For over 35 years, millions of patients have trusted Optical Express with their eye care. We are focused on delivering exceptional patient care, outstanding clinical outcomes and continued investment in our people and technology. As the UK’s leading private provider of laser eye, premium intraocular lens and cataract surgery, our expert Surgeons undertake more procedures collectively than any other national provider. The Optical Express team work together, collectively and consistently striving for excellence whilst providing life changing treatments to our patients. We support and respect each other and are committed to a culture of care, trust and integrity. Our culture extends to our local communities, through our range of charitable and environmental projects. We focus on doing what is right for our patients, our colleagues, our local communities and our planet.

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced H&S Advisor to join our team, to provide full health & safety coverage in our clinics across the UK.

Job Purpose

The Health & Safety Advisor will report to the H&S manager and have responsibility for ensuring that all companies in the group comply with all relevant health, safety, and environmental legislation, policies, and procedures. They will work to promote a strong health and safety culture, reduce workplace risks, and drive continuous improvement in safety performance throughout our business.

Key Responsibilities

• Compliance & Legislation
  • Ensure compliance with UK Health & Safety laws (e.g., Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, COSHH, RIDDOR).
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of health and safety regulations and industry best practices.
  • Conduct regular audits and inspections to ensure workplace safety and compliance.
  • Ensure all risk assessments and method statements (RAMS) are up to date.
• Risk Management & Safety Procedures
  • Identify and assess risks, implementing effective risk management strategies.
  • Develop and maintain health and safety policies, procedures, and guidelines.
  • Investigate accidents, incidents, and near misses, providing reports and recommendations for corrective actions.
  • Ensure all emergency procedures, including fire drills and first aid, are in place and regularly tested.
• Training & Awareness
  • Deliver health and safety training sessions to employees at all levels.
  • Promote a culture of safety awareness and best practices across the organisation.
  • Provide guidance and support to managers and employees on health and safety matters.
• Reporting & Documentation
  • Maintain accurate records of safety inspections, risk assessments, and training sessions.
  • Prepare and present reports on health and safety performance, incidents, and compliance to senior management.
  • Ensure all statutory reporting (e.g., RIDDOR) is completed in a timely manner.
• Contractor & Supplier Management
  • Assess and monitor contractor safety compliance.
  • Review supplier and contractor health and safety policies to ensure alignment with company standards.

Essential Skills & Experience

• NEBOSH General Certificate (or equivalent qualification).
• Strong knowledge of UK health and safety legislation.
• Experience conducting risk assessments and audits.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to train and educate employees on health and safety matters.
• Experience handling incident investigations and reporting.
• IOSH Membership.

Key Competencies

• Attention to detail.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Leadership and influencing skills.
• Organisational and time management abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Some travel will be necessary. Occasional requirement to work outside of standard hours in case of incidents or training needs.

What’s in it for you?

• Competitive salary DoE.
• 33 days Annual leave.
• A range of benefits including free or discounted optical products and procedures.
• Career progression.
• Modern working environment.

Please apply now by uploading your CV. Optical Express is an equal opportunities employer.