Job Title:
Health and Safety Manager
Reporting to:
Managing Director/Operations Director
Job Role:
To lead develop and implement a robust Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) management system across the poultry and fish 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
* 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.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
* Bike to work scheme
* On-site parking
* Sick pay
Work Location: In person