Description

Environmental health and safety advisors typically work in the industrial, manufacturing, and construction industries, as well as for local, state, and federal government agencies. These advisors are tasked with the development, implementation, and oversight of work safety programs and procedures. Health and safety advisors help maintain safe work environments by identifying and correcting possible safety hazards, testing and maintaining safety equipment (such as harnesses and eye wash stations), responding to and rectifying any safety or health incidences on work sites, and conducting safety training for other employees. Consistent and accurate record keeping of employee training, incident reports, and ongoing safety programs is also required. The position requires work in both office and field settings, meaning that travel is usually required. Outside of time spent traveling, these advisors typically work during regular business hours.Given the range of required tasks, the position requires good communication skills, the ability to collaborate and work with others, the ability to provide detailed and thorough analysis of problems and solutions, and basic computer knowledge. An understanding of state and federal safety and environmental guidelines is helpful, if not required, to ensure company compliance with all state and federal regulations. Education requirements can vary from an associate’s degree in safety environmental science to a master's or doctoral degree in a related field. The position may also require certifications in related areas such as first aid, OSHA training, and CSP (certified safety professional) certification.

Roles & Responsibilities

As an Environmental Health & Safety EHS Advisor in Canada with 3-6 years of experience, your main responsibilities are:

  • Conduct regular inspections of facilities and work areas to identify and evaluate potential health and safety hazards, and implement corrective measures to ensure compliance with regulations.
  • Develop and deliver training programs to educate employees on safety protocols, emergency procedures, and regulatory requirements.
  • Investigate accidents, incidents, and near-misses to determine root causes and develop strategies to prevent future occurrences.
  • Collaborate with management and stakeholders to develop and implement EHS policies, procedures, and programs that promote a culture of safety and environmental sustainability.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For an Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Advisor, the following qualifications are required:

  • In-depth knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal requirements.
  • Strong problem-solving skills to identify potential hazards, assess risks, and develop effective strategies and procedures to mitigate them.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively train employees on safety protocols, conduct inspections, and provide guidance on best practices.
  • Attention to detail and strong organizational skills to maintain accurate records, analyze data, and generate reports to track and improve safety performance.

Essential Skills For Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Advisor

1

Environmental Economics

2

Health Care

3

Healthcare Analytics

Skills That Affect Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Advisor Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Environmental Economics

27%

Auditing

6%

Safety Program

17%

Career Prospects

The role of an Environmental Health & Safety EHS Advisor is crucial for ensuring workplace safety and compliance. For professionals with 3-6 years of experience in Canada, here are four alternative roles to consider:

  • EHS Coordinator: A position that involves assisting in the development and implementation of EHS programs, conducting inspections, and providing training to employees.
  • Safety Specialist: A role focused on identifying and mitigating workplace hazards, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
  • Sustainability Consultant: A position that involves advising organizations on sustainable practices, conducting environmental audits, and developing strategies to reduce their carbon footprint.
  • Compliance Officer: A role that involves ensuring adherence to environmental regulations, conducting internal audits, and developing policies and procedures to maintain compliance.

How to Learn

According to recent data, the job outlook for Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Advisors in Canada is expected to remain strong over the next 10 years. With increasing focus on environmental regulations and workplace safety, the demand for EHS Advisors is projected to grow steadily. This growth is supported by an increasing number of employment opportunities in various industries, such as manufacturing, construction, and healthcare. The role of EHS Advisors is crucial in ensuring compliance with regulations, identifying and mitigating risks, and promoting a safe and healthy work environment. With these factors in mind, the future of this profession in Canada appears promising.