HSE Manager

HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGER (EE)

Overview: 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.

Duties:

1. 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.
2. 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.
   • Conduct regular safety risk assessments, incident investigations, and implement corrective and preventive actions.
   • Compile close-out reports and submit them upon completion of serious investigations.
   • Ensure investigations are conducted and reported in line with legal and statutory requirements of the applicable legislation dependent on the Chemical industry sector.
   • Oversee Permit-to-Work (PTW), Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), confined space entry, work procedures etc.
   • Ensure that all contractors and service providers are issued with safety permits prior to performing tasks on site.
   • Ensure monitoring of safety indicators (e.g., LTIR, TRIR, FAR) are always adhered to.
   • Liaise with L & D Specialist to ensure the completion of all 'must-have and legislated safety trainings are conducted.
   • Ensure HSE management systems are implemented and maintained.
3. 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.
   • Drive continuous improvement in environmental performance, including pollution prevention and resource efficiency.
   • Investigation and resolution of non-conformances.
4. 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.
   • Lead statutory SHE Committee meetings and foster a strong working relationship with unions, employee representatives, and local communities.
   • Keep abreast of evolving HSE and industry requirements and safety initiatives.
5. Leadership & Culture:
   • Promote a zero-harm culture through coaching, training, visible felt leadership, and workforce engagement.
   • Work with relevant parties to develop, deliver, and track mandatory and role-specific HSE training programs.
   • Drive behavioural safety programs and recognition systems for safe practices and innovation.
   • Support the onboarding and development of new employees and contractors, ensuring alignment with safety culture from day one.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree/Diploma 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.

Remuneration: An attractive package will be negotiated with the successful incumbent including 13th cheque / performance bonus, medical aid and pension fund contributions.

Desired Skills:

• Risk Assessment
• Inspection
• Compliance
• Leadership
• Hazardous Materials
• HSE Qualification
• Chemicals