Safety and Occupational Health Specialist

Summary This position will serve at the Carl T Hayden Veterans’ Administration MC in Phoenix, AZ in the Quality, Safety, and Improvement ( QSI ) Service’s Safety Section. The primary purpose of the Safety Specialist is the elimination or minimization of human injury and property and productivity losses, caused by harmful contact incidents, through the design of effective management policies, programs, or practices. Responsibilities Major duties include, but are not limited to: Conducts safety and occupational health surveys at the PVAHCS and its Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) and recommends measures to eliminate or control hazardous practices and conditions. Inspects worksite, machine and equipment operations, environmental conditions, work practices, protective devices and equipment, and safety procedures. Participates in PVAHCS EOC rounds, Construction safety rounds, and ensures that hazardous items/processes found are remediated by additional training for staff or needed repairs. Investigates mishaps, obtains statements from witnesses, and photographs mishap scenes. Records and photographs apparent violations of standards for use as evidence of existing hazards to support recommended corrective actions to supervisors/managers. Prepares and revises safety instructions and guides that are relevant to current or planned contractor and base employees. Advises supervisors and safety representatives of appropriate safety and occupational health measures to control or eliminate hazardous operating processes or environmental conditions. Provides fire safety and life safety training to staff and conduct periodic fire drills. Performs other related duties as assigned. Statement of Difference for the developmental GS-07 grade level: The duties are essentially the same as those described at the full performance level of the target position. However, during the developmental assignment, full performance range and level of selected functions will not be completely delegated to the employee until proper orientation and training have been completed and the incumbent has demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to accomplish the work at the full performance level. Promotion Potential: The selectee may be promoted to the full performance level without further competition when all regulatory, qualification, and performance requirements are met. Selection at a lower grade level does not guarantee promotion to the full performance level. Work Sc