Selecting the correct career is a crucial decision with far-reaching implications. It is a choice that will shape your future, underscoring the importance of making an informed decision.
Over the next few weeks, The African Reporter will engage with business people, professionals and other role players, focusing on a specific career every week.
By doing this, we aim to provide valuable guidance to our younger readers navigating their career choices. This week, we give a platform to the environmental health safety officer career. Nozwelo Ngwenya has been a junior environmental health and safety officer for a month.
“I have always been passionate about sustainability and protecting people. Growing up, I saw firsthand the impact of unsafe working conditions and environmental damage. I wanted to be part of the solution.
“I love that every day is different, and I get to make a tangible difference in workplace safety and environmental protection,” she said.
What is environmental health safety?Environmental health and safety (EHS) encompasses a framework of policies, procedures and practices that organisations implement to manage and minimise risks related to environmental impact and workplace health and safety.The primary objective of EHS is to protect the health and safety of employees, comply with regulations and promote environmental sustainability.
What is a junior environmental health and safety officer?Junior EHS officers assist senior officers in monitoring and ensuring safety and environmental regulations compliance. They do risk assessments, promote safety programmes and help implement policies.
What does a junior EHS officer do?Their tasks include helping to develop and implement safety policies, doing routine safety inspections, identifying potential risks and reporting incidents. They also do safety training for employees and ensure a workplace complies with health, safety, and environmental laws and regulations.
Where can I study to become an EHS officer?A diploma takes three years, plus an additional year to complete an advanced diploma.The universities offering the course:• Vaal University of Technology;• UNISA;• North-West University;• Durban University of Technology;• Tshwane University of Technology.Other postgraduate qualifications or certifications might require an additional year or two.
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What high school subjects do I need?• English at level 4;• Mathematical lit or mathematics students at level 3;• Technical maths at level 4;• The matric certificate must indicate admission to a diploma.
What are the roles and responsibilities of an EHS officer?Their roles include ensuring compliance with environmental health and safety laws and regulations, identifying potential hazards, developing safety programmes, doing regular safety audits and teaching employees about safety protocols.
What skills do I need?To be successful in this field, you’ll need:• attention to detail;• strong communication skills;• problem-solving abilities;• organisational skills;• critical thinking;• Knowledge of regulations.
Are there different types of EHS officers?Yes, including:• occupational safety officers;• environmental health officers;• EHS specialists, industrial hygienists;• safety compliance officers.Each role has its focus and responsibilities.
What advice would you give to someone aspiring to become an EHS officer?Stay curious and passionate about safety and the environment. Gain practical experience through internships or volunteer work, and continuously update your knowledge and skills. Networking with professionals in the field can also be valuable.
What are the pros and cons that come with the job?The advantages include job satisfaction, stability and variety. However, the job can be stressful, require irregular hours and involve physically demanding tasks.
Where can environmental health professionals work?They can work in various settings, such as corporations, government agencies, NPOs, construction sites and manufacturing and consulting firms.
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