Safety technician

What it means

A safety technician is a certified professional who handles occupational health and safety tasks for an employer. They train staff, assess risks, inspect workplaces, recommend protective equipment and keep records of workplace accidents.

The Health and Safety Act requires employers to have these tasks carried out by a qualified person. Depending on headcount and risk, this may be an employee, an external safety service or, in the smallest firms, the certified employer personally.

Larger and higher-risk companies need an authorised safety technician with a higher level of qualification. The role is closely linked to fire protection, handled by a fire protection technician.

How it works in practice

Most small firms use an external service for a monthly fee. The technician prepares the risk assessment, induction and refresher training and policies, and helps during labour inspectorate visits.

After a workplace accident the technician helps write up the report, investigate the causes and notify the accident. Proper documentation also matters for compensation and dealing with the insurer.

The cost of the technician, training and protective equipment is tax-deductible. A contract with an external service should define the scope of work and how often workplaces are inspected.

What to watch out for

The most common inspection finding is missing or outdated training records. Training must be repeated at set intervals and whenever work changes, not just at hiring.

Even an external technician does not take over the employer's responsibility. If identified shortcomings are not fixed, the fine and liability for an accident stay with the company and its director.