Health, Safety, Environment Manager - Chemical Manufacturing

NCLC; Ballito; On-site; ZAR 60 000 - 100 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated HSE Manager to lead the development and implementation of Health, Safety, and Environmental systems in a high-risk chemical manufacturing environment. This role is pivotal in fostering a safety culture and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The ideal candidate will bring over a decade of experience in the field, demonstrating strong leadership and a proactive approach to risk management. Join a dynamic team and make a significant impact on safety and environmental practices while ensuring the well-being of personnel and the sustainability of operations.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in Health and Safety in chemical manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of South African HSE legislation.
• Experience managing chemical emergencies and audits.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with OHSA and hazardous chemical regulations.
• Champion process safety management and conduct audits.
• Implement strategies for environmental impact minimization.

Skills

Occupational Health and Safety

Environmental Compliance

Process Safety Management

Chemical Safety

Risk Assessment

Incident Reporting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Health and Safety

NEBOSH International General Certificate

Diploma in Environmental Science

Job description

Introduction

The HSE Manager is responsible for leading the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) systems at all sites, in alignment with global HSE standards and South African regulatory requirements.

Operating within a high-risk chemical manufacturing environment, this role is critical in fostering a robust safety culture, ensuring regulatory compliance, and safeguarding people, assets, and the environment. This individual must be a hands-on leader who is visibly present on the shop floor, proactive in identifying risks, and capable of bringing a fresh perspective and added value to the safety culture. The role demands someone with deep industry experience, the confidence to challenge the status quo, and the credibility to influence at all levels.

Duties & Responsibilities

Health & Safety

• Ensure compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and all applicable regulations relating to hazardous chemical substances (HCS), major hazardous installations (MHI), and chemical safety.
• Champion process safety management (PSM) principles, including hazard and operability studies (HAZOP), safety instrumented systems.
• Ensure all site personnel are trained in chemical-specific safety protocols and emergency response procedures.
• Conduct regular audits on the baseline risk assessment to ensure risks have been incorporated into working procedures and that the risk assessments files are regularly kept updated
• Environmental Compliance
• Implement strategies to minimize environmental impact, including waste management, pollution control, and resource sustainability.
• Ensure proper handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous chemicals, and maintain up-to-date Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all substances.
• Oversee the management of air emissions, effluent discharge, and chemical waste disposal via licensed providers

• Regulatory Compliance & Stakeholder Engagement

• Management of Internal audit system.
• Manage inspections and audits by the Department of Employment and Labour, ISO and other statutory bodies.
• Ensure accurate and timely incident reporting in line with COIDA, Section 24 of OHSA, and internal protocols.

Desired Experience & Qualification

• • Bachelor’s degree/Diploma or relevant qualification in Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Science Degree or Diploma in Safety, Environmental Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
  • SAMTRAC, NEBOSH International General Certificate (IGC), or equivalent would be advantageous
  • Minimum of 10 years’ experience in a Health and Safety role within the chemical manufacturing or process industry, with at least 5 years in a leadership capacity.
  • Strong knowledge of chemical manufacturing processes and associated risks.
  • In-depth understanding of South African HSE legislation, particularly relating to hazardous substances and major hazard installations.
  • Experience managing chemical emergencies and coordinating with external agencies.
  • Proficient in safety performance monitoring, leading KPIs, and audit processes.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and its regulations.
  • Proven experience with hazardous materials, process safety, and emergency response planning.
  • Valid driver’s license and own transport.