Introduction:
Occupational health and safety technicians are responsible for ensuring that workplaces are safe and healthy for employees. They work under the direction of occupational health and safety specialists and are involved in a variety of activities related to workplace safety and health.
Job Description:
Occupational health and safety technicians are responsible for conducting regular inspections of workplace facilities and equipment to ensure that they are in good working condition. They also investigate workplace accidents and injuries to identify the root cause and develop strategies to prevent them from happening in the future.
Some examples of the types of equipment that occupational health and safety technicians may inspect include machinery, cranes, scaffolding, and personal protective equipment such as hard hats and safety glasses.
To become an occupational health and safety technician, you typically need to have an associate’s degree in occupational health and safety or a related field. However, some employers may accept candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant work experience.
In addition to formal education, occupational health and safety technicians also need to complete on-the-job training to learn the specific procedures and protocols of their employers.
Occupational health and safety technicians typically begin their careers as entry-level technicians and advance to more senior positions over time. As they gain more experience and expertise, they may be promoted to roles such as lead technician, supervisor, or manager.
Getting Into the Field:
If you’re interested in becoming an occupational health and safety technician, there are several steps you can take to get started. First, consider getting an associate’s degree or certification in occupational health and safety or a related field.
You can also gain relevant work experience by working in related roles such as construction or manufacturing. Networking with professionals in the field can also help you to learn about job opportunities and gain valuable insights into the industry.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, occupational health and safety technicians play a crucial role in ensuring that workplaces are safe and healthy for employees. With the right education and training, as well as relevant work experience and networking, you can establish a successful career as an occupational health and safety technician and make a positive impact on the lives of workers in various industries.
Occupational Health and Safety Technicians
Occupational health and safety technicians are responsible for ensuring that workplaces are safe for employees by inspecting workplaces, evaluating potential hazards, and developing safety policies and programs. They also investigate accidents and injuries and recommend ways to prevent them in the future.
Job Level
There are various levels of occupational health and safety technicians, with different job titles and duties depending on their experience and education level. Some common job titles include:
- Entry-level technician
- Safety coordinator
- Safety supervisor
- Safety manager
Salary Data
The average salary for occupational health and safety technicians in the US is $63,327.20 per year. However, the salary varies depending on the job level and whether the employee is in a union. Below is a data table showing the average salary for each category:
| Job Level | Union | Average Salary | Average Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| All levels | Nonunion | $61,859.20 | $29.74 |
| All levels | Full-time | $64,646.40 | $31.07 |
| All levels | Time-based pay | $63,273.60 | $30.42 |
Union Effects
Joining a union can have a significant effect on the job conditions and wages of an occupational health and safety technician. Unions negotiate on behalf of workers to secure better pay, benefits, and job protections. This can result in higher wages and better job security for unionized technicians. However, joining a union is a personal decision and depends on each individual’s preferences and circumstances.
Geographies
The average salary for occupational health and safety technicians varies depending on the region. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top paying states for this occupation are:
- Alaska – $92,380
- Warshington DC – $84,240
On the other hand, the states with the lowest average salary for occupational health and safety technicians are:
- Iowa – $44,170
- Mississippi – $44,070
