Safety and Health Professionals, also known as Safety Officers, are essential for ensuring workplace safety, regulatory compliance, and fostering a culture of health and well-being. Their expertise is crucial in preventing workplace injuries, illnesses, and environmental hazards.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Advise employers on corrective and preventive safety measures.
- Inspect the workplace for hazards.
- Investigate accidents, near-misses, dangerous occurrences, occupational poisoning, or diseases.
- Assist the employer or safety and health committee.
- Serve as the secretary to the safety and health committee.
- Support inspections conducted by the safety and health committee.
- Collect, analyze, and maintain statistics on accidents, dangerous occurrences, and occupational diseases.
Employment Sectors
- Manufacturing Industry
- Construction Industry
- Oil and Gas Industry
- Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Industry
- Transportation and Logistics
- Mining and Quarrying Industry
- Agriculture and Plantation Industry
- Energy and Power Generation Industry
- Chemical and Petrochemical Industry
- Government and Regulatory Bodies (e.g., DOSH, NIOSH, DOE)
- Education and Training Institutions
- Environmental and Waste Management Industry
- Corporate and Office Environments
- Telecommunication and IT Industry
- Hospitality and Tourism Industry
- Retail and Warehousing Industry
High Demand for Safety and Health Professionals
In Malaysia, the demand for Safety and Health Professionals is rising due to strict workplace safety regulations, expanding industries, and heightened awareness of occupational health risks. Compliance with laws like the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) 1994 is crucial to prevent accidents, reduce hazards, and ensure employee well-being. With technological advancements and evolving safety challenges, the need for certified professionals continues to grow.
Study Pathway
- Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) or Equivalent:
- Minimum of three (3) credits, including Science, Mathematics, and English.
- Diploma in Occupational Safety and Health (OSH):
- Duration: 3 years.
- Covers occupational safety, health, management systems, and legislation.
- Bachelor’s Degree in OSH or Related Fields:
- Duration: 3–4 years.
- Examples: Bachelor of Occupational Safety and Health, Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health & Safety, Bachelor of Engineering (HSE-focused).
- Professional Certifications (Optional for Career Advancement):
- Green Book (DOSH Malaysia) – Required for Registered Safety and Health Officer (SHO).
- National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH).
- Certified Safety Professional (CSP).
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Certification.
- Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH).
- Master’s Degree or PhD in OSH (For Advanced Roles):
- For research, lecturing, or high-level safety management roles.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Train-the-Trainer (TTT) certification enables conducting safety training programs.
Safety Officer to Safety and Health Officer (SHO):
Complete a diploma or degree in OSH.
Pass the SHO competency exam.
Gain at least three (3) years of OSH-related experience.
Obtain the Green Book Registration from DOSH.
SHO to Safety Manager:
Oversee corporate-level safety programs.
Requires a Bachelor’s Degree in OSH or related fields.
Additional certifications like NEBOSH, CSP, or OSHA improve job prospects.
Specialization in Occupational Hygiene or Environmental Safety:
Industrial Hygiene – Focus on workplace health hazards.
Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) – Manage environmental risks.
Construction Safety – Specialize in building site safety.
Relevant certifications: Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) or Certified Environmental Specialist (CES).
Becoming a Safety Consultant or Trainer:
With experience, transition to an Independent Safety Consultant or Trainer.
