Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator in Tennessee Career Overview
As an Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator, you play a vital role in promoting and ensuring a safe work environment for employees across various industries. Your primary responsibility lies in identifying potential hazards and implementing safety measures to prevent workplace accidents and injuries.
In this position, you'll engage in a variety of activities, including:
- Conducting regular safety audits and inspections to assess compliance with safety regulations and company policies.
- Developing and coordinating training programs to educate employees about safety practices and emergency procedures.
- Investigating incidents and accidents to determine root causes and recommend corrective actions.
- Collaborating with management to create health and safety policies and protocols that meet regulatory standards and industry best practices.
- Maintaining records and documentation related to workplace safety, incidents, and compliance reporting.
Your work not only helps protect employees' well-being but also enhances overall organizational efficiency and productivity. By ensuring adherence to safety standards, you contribute to a positive workplace culture and minimize the risk of costly legal liabilities or operational disruptions.
Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator Salary in Tennessee
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become an Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator in Tennessee
To become an Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator in Tennessee, you will need to pursue specific educational qualifications and training. Consider the following degree programs:
Occupational Safety and Health Technology: This program provides a solid foundation in identifying and addressing workplace hazards, implementing safety protocols, and ensuring compliance with health regulations.
Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene: Focused on the assessment and mitigation of risks related to workplace health, this degree equips you with essential skills in evaluating environmental and occupational exposures.
Environmental Health: This program covers the interactions between human health and the environment, emphasizing strategies to prevent disease and promote health in community and occupational settings.
Environmental Toxicology: Pursuing this degree allows you to understand the effects of toxic substances on human health and the environment, which is vital for developing safety measures in various industries.
Safety Studies: This degree offers an interdisciplinary approach to safety management, covering risk assessment, hazard prevention, and compliance with occupational safety regulations.
In addition to a relevant degree, obtaining certifications such as the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Occupational Health and Safety Technician (OHST) can enhance your qualifications and knowledge in the field. Engaging in internships or practical training opportunities during your studies can also provide valuable hands-on experience, preparing you for a career as an Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator.
Best Schools to become a Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator in Tennessee 2024
Columbia Southern University
Johns Hopkins University
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Waldorf University
Indiana University of Pennsylvania-Main Campus
Keene State College
- Promote worksite or product safety by applying knowledge of industrial processes, mechanics, chemistry, psychology, and industrial health and safety laws.
- Includes industrial product safety engineers.
Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator Required Skills and Competencies in Tennessee
Knowledge of Safety Regulations: Familiarity with local, state, and federal regulations governing occupational health and safety, including OSHA standards and best practices.
Risk Assessment: Ability to identify and evaluate hazardous workplace conditions and develop appropriate control measures to mitigate risks.
Analytical Skills: Proficiency in analyzing data and reports to assess safety performance and identify trends, enabling informed decision-making.
Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication abilities to convey safety policies and procedures clearly to employees and stakeholders.
Training and Coaching: Capability to design and deliver safety training programs, ensuring employees understand safety protocols and compliance requirements.
Problem-Solving Skills: Aptitude for developing innovative solutions to safety challenges, fostering a proactive safety culture within the organization.
Attention to Detail: Keen observational skills and thoroughness in monitoring compliance and implementing safety measures effectively.
Interpersonal Skills: The ability to build relationships and collaborate with employees at all levels, promoting a positive attitude towards safety.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with safety management systems and other relevant software tools for documenting incidents, tracking training, and managing compliance.
Emergency Response Planning: Understanding of emergency preparedness and response strategies to handle workplace emergencies effectively.
Project Management: Skills in planning, executing, and overseeing safety projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.
Continuous Improvement Mindset: Commitment to appraising and enhancing safety processes, staying informed about industry developments, and implementing new strategies as needed.
Job Duties for Occupational Health and Safety Coordinators
Conduct research to evaluate safety levels for products.
Evaluate product designs for safety.
Investigate industrial accidents, injuries, or occupational diseases to determine causes and preventive measures.
Analytical or scientific software
- Computational fluid dynamics CFD software
- The MathWorks MATLAB
Compliance software
- Material safety data sheet MSDS software
- Safety, health, and environmental management software
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic Skills
- Reading work related information
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
People and Technology Systems
- Measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator in Tennessee
The job market for Occupational Health and Safety Coordinators in Tennessee is currently witnessing a positive trend, characterized by various factors impacting demand and growth potential.
Increased Demand: Recent years have seen a growing emphasis on workplace safety and health regulations. With heightened awareness surrounding occupational health stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses are increasingly prioritizing the role of safety coordinators to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Growth Potential: Projections indicate robust growth for Occupational Health and Safety Coordinators over the next decade. As industries continue to expand and regulations evolve, there is an anticipated increase in job openings, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and construction, where safety risks are more pronounced.
Geographical Hotspots: Several regions in Tennessee stand out as key areas for employment opportunities in this field:
- Nashville: Known as a hub for healthcare and construction industries, Nashville offers numerous positions and opportunities for advancement.
- Memphis: With its strong logistics and distribution sector, Memphis presents a high demand for safety professionals to manage health risks in warehousing and transportation.
- Knoxville: This area’s growing manufacturing base contributes to an increasing need for Occupational Health and Safety Coordinators, especially within the automotive and aerospace sectors.
- Chattanooga: Rapid industrial growth and infrastructure development in Chattanooga require dedicated safety personnel to oversee compliance and risk management.
Industry Variations: Different industries within Tennessee exhibit varying levels of demand for safety coordinators. For instance, the manufacturing and construction sectors tend to have a higher concentration of job opportunities, while healthcare organizations also require dedicated coordinators to address specific safety challenges inherent in medical environments.
Overall, your prospects as an Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator in Tennessee are promising, with an expanding job market that reflects both regional needs and industry trends.
Top Related Careers to Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become an Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator in Tennessee
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
The U.S. Department of Labor's OSHA provides guidelines, regulations, and resources relevant to workplace safety and health.
Website: www.osha.govNational Safety Council (NSC)
NSC offers training, advocacy, and resources for safety professionals, focusing on reducing risk and improving safety practices.
Website: www.nsc.orgAmerican Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP)
ASSP is a professional organization providing resources for safety professionals, including certification, training, and networking opportunities.
Website: www.assp.orgTennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development
This state department provides information related to occupational safety and resources specifically tailored for Tennessee's workforce.
Website: www.tn.gov/workforceNational Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
NIOSH conducts research and makes recommendations for the prevention of work-related injuries and illnesses. This is a valuable resource for best practices in occupational health.
Website: www.cdc.gov/nioshBoard of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP)
The BCSP offers certifications for safety professionals, along with resources for ongoing education and credentialing in occupational health and safety.
Website: www.bcsp.orgTennessee Occupational Safety and Health (TOSHA)
TOSHA enforces workplace safety regulations in Tennessee and provides resources for employers and employees on occupational safety.
Website: www.tn.gov/labor-wellbeing/osha.htmlAmerican Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA)
AIHA is a professional organization for industrial hygiene and safety professionals, offering resources, networking opportunities, and certifications.
Website: www.aiha.orgSafety+Health Magazine
A publication of the National Safety Council that covers a wide range of topics related to occupational safety and health news, trends, and best practices.
Website: www.safetyandhealthmagazine.comThe Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
The CDC provides health guidelines, including those relevant to occupational health and safety. It’s a valuable resource for best practices in maintaining a safe work environment.
Website: www.cdc.gov
Utilizing these resources will enhance your knowledge and skills as you pursue a career as an Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator in Tennessee.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator in Tennessee
What is the role of an Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator?
An Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator is responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring policies and programs that promote workplace safety and health. You will conduct risk assessments, ensure compliance with regulations, and provide training to employees on safety practices.What qualifications do I need to become an Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator in Tennessee?
A bachelor's degree in occupational safety, health, environmental science, or a related field is typically required. Professional certifications like the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Occupational Health and Safety Technologist (OHST) can enhance your qualifications and career prospects.Is prior experience necessary to become an Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator?
While some entry-level positions may be available, relevant experience in safety management or a related field is often preferred. Internships or volunteer work in safety programs can also provide valuable experience.What skills are important for an Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator?
Key skills include strong analytical abilities, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, problem-solving techniques, and knowledge of local and federal safety regulations.Where do Occupational Health and Safety Coordinators typically work?
You can find these professionals in a variety of settings, including manufacturing, construction, healthcare, government agencies, and large corporations. The industry you choose can significantly impact your day-to-day responsibilities.What is the job outlook for Occupational Health and Safety Coordinators in Tennessee?
The job outlook for safety professionals is generally positive due to ongoing regulatory requirements and the focus on workplace safety. Growth in sectors like healthcare and construction is expected to increase demand in Tennessee.What is the average salary for an Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator in Tennessee?
As of the latest data, the average salary for an Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator in Tennessee ranges from $60,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and specific job responsibilities.What are some typical job duties of an Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator?
Typical duties include:- Conducting regular safety audits and inspections
- Preparing and maintaining safety documentation and reports
- Developing and delivering training programs
- Investigating accidents and incidents
- Collaborating with management and employees to promote safety culture
What certifications can I pursue to advance my career as an Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator?
Besides the CSP and OHST, consider certifications such as the Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) or the Associate Safety Professional (ASP). These can enhance your credentials and job marketability.Can I specialize in a specific area of occupational health and safety?
Yes, you may specialize in areas such as industrial hygiene, construction safety, environmental health, or ergonomic safety. Specializing can help you stand out in the field and pursue specific interests.How can I stay updated with changes in safety regulations and practices?
You can stay informed by participating in professional organizations, attending workshops and conferences, subscribing to safety-related journals, and taking continuing education courses relevant to your field.