On-Site Field Safety Representative

Gardner-Watson Decking, Inc. is a nationwide leader in metal decking installation headquartered in Oldsmar, Florida. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Field Safety Representative to support our commitment to providing safe, precise, and on-time services across the United States.

The Field Safety Representative serves as a key member of the Safety Department and is responsible for promoting a proactive safety culture, ensuring compliance with company policies and OSHA regulations, conducting training and inspections, and supporting field operations. This position requires extensive travel and the ability to work independently while maintaining effective communication with field personnel, project management, and company leadership.

Safety Leadership and Compliance

• Promote and reinforce Gardner-Watson Decking's core values of Safe, Precise, and On Time.
• Lead by example and actively encourage safe work practices throughout all levels of field operations.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, customer requirements, company policies, and site-specific safety plans.
• Assist in developing and maintaining a positive safety culture that emphasizes hazard recognition, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Field Inspections and Audits

• Conduct routine and unannounced jobsite inspections and safety audits.
• Evaluate work practices, equipment, fall protection systems, housekeeping, access methods, material handling activities, and personal protective equipment usage.
• Document findings and communicate corrective actions to field supervision and management.
• Track corrective actions through completion and verify compliance.

Training and Employee Development

• Conduct new hire orientations and project-specific safety orientations.
• Deliver safety training, toolbox talks, and refresher training on topics including:
  • Fall Protection
  • Aerial Lift Safety
  • Hazard Communication
  • Heat Illness Prevention
  • Personal Protective Equipment
  • Leading Edge Work
  • Steel Erection and Decking Hazards
• Mentor foremen and crew members on safe work practices and hazard recognition.

Project Safety Support

• Serve as the designated onsite safety representative on assigned projects.
• Provide daily safety oversight and support to field crews and supervisors.
• Participate in project planning meetings and coordinate with general contractors, owners, and other subcontractors regarding safety requirements.
• Assist with implementation of site-specific safety plans, rescue plans, and emergency response procedures.

Incident Investigation and Reporting

• Respond to incidents, injuries, near misses, property damage events, and customer safety concerns.
• Conduct investigations, gather statements, take photographs, and document findings.
• Assist the Safety Director in identifying root causes and developing corrective actions.
• Prepare accurate and timely reports for management and customers.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Complete audit reports, inspection reports, training records, incident reports, and other required documentation.
• Submit reports accurately and within required timeframes.
• Maintain company-issued equipment, vehicles, and safety supplies.
• Communicate regularly with the Safety Director regarding project status, staffing needs, concerns, and corrective actions.

Operational Support

• Assist field crews with implementation of safety systems including:
  • Warning lines
  • Controlled Access Zones (CAZ)
  • Controlled Decking Zones (CDZ)
  • Fall protection systems
  • Rescue equipment setup
  • Safety signage and barricades
• Support project teams in resolving safety concerns while maintaining productivity and customer satisfaction.

Attendance and Professional Expectations

• Maintain regular and dependable attendance.
• Report to assigned jobsites as directed by management.
• Remain onsite during assigned working hours unless otherwise authorized.
• Maintain professional conduct and represent Gardner-Watson Decking in a positive manner at all times.
• Travel extensively and adjust to changing project schedules and customer requirements.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and reach for extended periods.
• Ability to climb ladders and stair towers.
• Ability to work at elevations exceeding 40 feet while utilizing fall protection equipment.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in various weather conditions including heat, cold, rain, wind, and direct sunlight.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to navigate active construction sites with uneven terrain and changing conditions.

Benefits

• Competitive Compensation
• Company Vehicle (when applicable)
• Travel Expenses and Food Allowance
• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Professional Development and Training Opportunities

• Minimum of 2 years of construction safety experience (steel erection, metal decking, roofing, or related trades preferred)
• Valid U.S. Driver's License with an acceptable driving record
• OSHA 510 and/or OSHA 30  
• Certification required
• Additional certifications preferred, including:
  • MEWP (Aerial Lift) Trainer
  • Fall Protection Competent Person
  • OSHA Outreach Trainer
  • Rigging and Signal Person
  • First Aid/CPR
• Ability to pass pre-employment and random drug screenings
• Ability to pass background checks as required by customers and project owners
• Bilingual English/Spanish preferred
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
• Proficient with Microsoft Office, smartphones, tablets, and safety reporting software