Health And Safety Manager

Job Description Health and Safety Manager Job Title: Health and Safety Manager Reporting to : Managing Director/Operatoins Director Job Role: To lead develop and implement a robust Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) management system across the processing facility. The postholder will ensure compliance with Irish legislation, industry standards, and company policies while promoting a strong safety culture in a high-volume FMCG production environment. Responsibilities: Health and Safety Management * Develop, implement, and maintain the company’s Health and Safety Policy and site-specific procedures in line with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, relevant Regulations, and Codes of Practice. * Conduct and regularly review comprehensive risk assessments and safe systems of work across all areas, including high-risk processing, chemical use, cold storage, and cleaning operations. * Lead accident and incident investigations, ensuring root cause analysis and timely corrective and preventive actions. * Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all incidents, near-misses, audits, inspections, and training. * Ensure compliance with requirements from the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and local authorities. Training and Development * Develop and deliver site-wide health, safety, and environmental training, including inductions, manual handling, PPE use, machinery safety, fire safety, and chemical awareness. * Provide guidance and coaching to supervisors and line managers to ensure effective safety leadership and accountability. * Promote a positive safety culture through toolbox talks, safety campaigns, and regular communication. Auditing and Compliance * Conduct regular safety and environmental audits and inspections throughout production, packaging, cold storage, engineering, and dispatch areas. * Prepare for and coordinate external inspections and audits by the HSA, DAFM, customers, or certification bodies (e.g. BRCGS, ISO 45001). * Monitor compliance with environmental standards, including waste management, effluent control, and energy efficiency. Contractor and Equipment Safety * Manage contractor safety processes, including permits-to-work, method statements, and induction procedures. * Ensure machinery and equipment comply with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007, particularly in relation to mechanical guarding, ergonomics, and maintenance. * Oversee statutory inspections and ensure all plant, equipment, and safety systems are properly maintained and documented. Reporting and Continuous Improvement * Produce monthly HSE performance reports, KPIs, and updates for senior management review. * Identify and drive opportunities for continuous improvement in health, safety, and environmental performance. * Stay up to date with Irish legislation, HSA guidance, and best practices within the food processing and FMCG sectors. Person Specification Essential * Relevant Health and Safety Qualification, e.g. Level 7 Diploma, NISO Certificate, or equivalent recognised under Irish standards. * Minimum 5 years’ experience in a food manufacturing or FMCG environment (preferably meat, poultry, or fish processing). * Strong knowledge of Irish health, safety, and environmental legislation. * Proven experience in risk assessment, accident investigation, and audit management. * Excellent communication, leadership, and influencing skills. * Competent in Microsoft Office and HSE management systems. Desirable * Membership of IOSH, NISO, or IIRSM (GradIOSH/CMIOSH desirable). * Experience working with BRCGS, ISO 45001, and ISO 14001 standards. * Environmental qualification (e.g. IEMA or equivalent). * First Aid Responder and Fire Marshal training