PURPOSE:
To enforce workplace and employee compliance health and safety policy; to ensure the organization is compliant with health and safety legislation. Additionally, to proactively foster a culture of health, wellness, and psychological safety within the workplace.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:
Health & Safety Program Management:
- Develop, implement, and monitor the organization’s Occupational Health and Safety strategy and policies in alignment with local legislation and industry best practices.
- Conduct risk assessments and safety audits across all Unicomer (Jamaica) Limited locations including and not limited to stores, on-site and off-site warehouses, and offices.
- Assist departments and stores in promoting and maintaining a vibrant OSH culture.
- Recommend and follow up on corrective and preventative measures to address identified risks or hazards.
- Ensure that all safety equipment and emergency procedures are in place and up to date.
Incident Management:
- Assists in conducting Emergency Drills to ensure equipment is functioning properly and staff is aware of emergency procedures
- Lead the investigation and documentation of all workplace incidents, accidents, near misses, and customer or partner safety concerns.
- Liaise with internal teams, external stakeholders, and authorities to manage incidents effectively.
- Maintain an incident register and provide regular reports and analysis to management.
- Monitor and follow up on injury claims, rehabilitation cases, and return-to-work programs in coordination with Human Capital.
- Provide guidance and support for mental health incidents or stress-related concerns in the workplace in collaboration with the Human Capital team.
Training & Awareness:
• Conduct safety training and awareness sessions for employees and contractors.
• Collaborate with branch leadership to ensure team members are properly trained on OHS protocols.
• Create and disseminate safety bulletins, signage, and materials to reinforce a safety first culture.
• Design and roll out e-learning or blended training solutions to ensure ongoing accessibility of health and safety training in collaboration with L&D.
Compliance & Reporting:
• Ensure compliance with Jamaica’s OSH Act and other applicable regulations.
• Prepare and submit required safety reports, documentation, and compliance certifications.
• Serve as the primary liaison with government agencies and inspectors for health and safety matters.
• Stay abreast of regional and international health and safety developments to support continuous improvement initiatives.
JOB SPECIFICATION: QUALIFICATION/EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
• Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Health & Safety, Environmental Science, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Certification in Occupational Health and Safety from a recognized local or regional training body
• Certification in OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) or equivalent is an advantage.
• Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in a health and safety role, preferably within retail, warehouse, logistics, or manufacturing environment.
• Sound knowledge of Jamaica’s OSH Act and applicable occupational safety regulations.
• Training or certification in ergonomics, first aid, or mental health first aid is an asset.
• Experience managing health and safety in multi-site operations is highly desirable.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
- Demonstrated experience in conducting incident investigations, safety audits, training sessions, and risk assessments.
- Extensive knowledge of local laws and statistical analysis
- Strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
- Physical endurance to perform emergency responses
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and familiar with incident reporting tools or systems.
- Must possess a valid driver’s license and be willing to travel island wide to support multiple locations.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, field based role.
- Familiarity with environmental sustainability practices and their intersection with workplace safety.
- Ability to influence and gain buy-in across all levels of the organization for safety initiatives.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
• This role requires regular island wide travel to offices, branch locations and distribution centre.
• Must be able to work flexible hours and respond to incidents outside of standard business hours when necessary.
• Physical presence on-site during audits, inspections, or high-risk incidents will be required.
• May occasionally be required to provide safety support during high-volume retail periods (e.g., holiday sales, promotional events).