Because working with composite materials involves unique hazards, including chemical exposure (resins, catalysts, styrene), hazardous dust from grinding/cutting, and confined space entries during vessel assembly, the ideal candidate will have a strong background in industrial chemical safety and composite manufacturing environments.
Hazard Control & Shop Floor Supervision: Conduct daily safety walkthroughs to ensure compliance with OSHA/local safety standards. Monitor specific hazards related to FRP fabrication, including lamination, filament winding, curing, and machining.
Chemical Safety & COSHH: Manage the safe storage, handling, and disposal of hazardous chemicals (e.g., polyester/epoxy resins, MEKP catalysts, acetone, and accelerators). Ensure Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are updated and readily accessible.
Air Quality & Ventilation Monitoring: Monitor workshop ventilation and local exhaust systems to ensure styrene vapors and fiberglass dust levels remain well within permissible exposure limits (PEL).
PPE Enforcement: Ensure strict adherence to specialized PPE requirements, including appropriate respiratory protection (supplied air or chemical respirators for laminators), dust masks, safety goggles, and chemical-resistant gloves.
Static Equipment Safety: Oversee safety protocols for heavy lifting, rigging, and maneuvering of large static equipment (tanks/vessels). Manage Confined Space Entry permits and procedures for internal lamination, inspection, or post-curing work.
Permit to Work (PTW): Issue and manage Permits to Work for high-risk activities, including Hot Work (near flammable resin stores), Confined Space Entry, and Working at Heights.
Training & Toolbox Talks: Conduct daily or weekly Toolbox Talks focusing on composite fabrication hazards. Deliver safety induction training for new hires, contractors, and visitors.
Incident Investigation: Lead investigations into near-misses, accidents, or occupational health complaints (e.g., skin irritation, respiratory issues). Identify root causes and implement Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA).
Waste Management: Oversee the safe disposal of hazardous composite waste, cured/uncured resins, and contaminated cleaning solvents in compliance with environmental regulations.
Education: Bachelor’s Degree/Diploma in Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field.
Certifications: Professionally certified in safety (e.g., NEBOSH IGC, IOSH, OSHA 30-Hour, or equivalent national safety certification).
Experience: Minimum of 3–5 years of experience as a Safety Officer, specifically within an FRP/GRP/RTR fabrication yard, chemical plant, or heavy static equipment manufacturing facility.
Technical Knowledge: * Deep understanding of the chemical hazards associated with thermosetting resins, catalysts (MEKP), and solvents.
Familiarity with international standards for static equipment fabrication (e.g., ASME RTP-1, BS EN 13121, AWWA) from a safety execution standpoint is a plus.
Strong knowledge of Confined Space Entry, Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), and Lifting/Rigging safety.
Soft Skills: Excellent communication skills, assertive enforcement of safety rules, and the ability to train diverse workshop personnel.
