General Description

Under the direction of the Program Manager of Quality Management (QM) and within federal, state, and local guidelines performs moderately complex safety program work. Work involves developing safety policies and procedures, participation in the safety training and education of staff, inspecting work areas and activities for hazards, responding to emergencies as needed, and investigating accidents. This position will provide guidance to others. The ideal candidate will be a detail-oriented and proactive individual with a strong commitment to safety, compliance and with all local state and federal guidelines. This position works under general supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Education, Training and Experience (including licensure and certification)

Experience in occupational safety and health program work.

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in safety, health, management, or a related field is generally preferred.

Experience and education may be substituted for one another.

Additional safety-related certifications or degrees are a plus.

REGISTRATION, CERTIFICATION, LICENSURE OR OTHER QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must maintain a valid Texas driver's license, auto liability insurance and a driving record acceptable to the Center's insurance requirements.

• All job specific training must be completed within thirty days of hire.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws related to the program area;
• Proven experience in a safety officer or related role.
• Knowledge of safety regulations, standards, and best practices.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to remain calm and composed in high-stress situations.
• Ability to effectively handle potentially aggressive behavior in a positive manner.
• Attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills.
• Physical fitness and the ability to respond to emergencies promptly.
• Familiarity with emergency response protocols and procedures.

Essential Duties Other duties may be assigned as needed.

• Safety Officer: Serves as the Safety Officer for the Center, as well as the chairperson for the Center Safety Committee and convenes on a quarterly basis. Interprets standards, codes, and HHSC Performance Contract requirements as it relates to safety. Ensure that all safety issues identified in safety meetings or at any time and initiatives are adhered to in accordance with timelines and appropriate standards.
• Routine Safety Inspections: Monitors all sites for completion of required drills and ensures drills are completed quarterly or in the assigned timeframe.
• Annual Safety Inspections: Conducts on-site inspections on an annual basis of Center properties and facilities to identify hazards, risk exposures and non-compliance with applicable state and federal laws including the Texas Accessibility Standards, Texas Health and Safety Code, and National Fire Protection Association Life Safety Code, and recommends appropriate corrective actions.
• Emergency/Disaster Plans: Coordinates with the appropriate departments in developing and updating emergency plans for each Center program site according to the performance contracts requirements. Is responsible for assisting the Sr. Director and Manager with creating a Center Disaster Plan.
• Coordination with HHSC Disaster Behavioral Health Services: coordinates with the primary/secondary contacts identified within the Behavioral Health performance contract in the delivery of these services. Participates in emergency management and disaster response and programs, exercises, drill, and trainings relating to the provision of behavioral health services in emergencies, criminal incidents, and disasters that focus on prevention preparedness, response, and recovery.
• Emergency Response: Respond to and manage emergency situations, such as fires, behavioral incidents, or accidents, by following established procedures and coordinating with emergency services.
• Safety Policies and Procedures: Assists the Sr. Director of QM/UM in the development/revision of safety policies and procedures to ensure adherence to local, state, and federal safety regulations.
• Safety Processes: Develops, coordinates, and maintains record keeping and filing systems concerning Quality/Utilization/Risk/Safety Management processes.
• Training: Organize and facilitate safety training sessions for employees, ensuring that they are aware of safety protocols, evacuation procedures, and the use of safety equipment. Provide Incident report training to staff at NEO and ongoing as needed.
• Incident Reporting: Evaluates and analyzes safety incident report data and recommends processes for reducing risks. Assist in investigating incidents and accidents. Performs follow-up interviews with appropriate staff and makes recommendations for process improvement.
• Safety Awareness: Promote safety awareness and a culture of safety consciousness among employees through communication and awareness campaigns, at least quarterly.
• Compliance: Ensure compliance with safety regulations, industry standards, and company policies, and procedures.
• Risk Assessment: Conduct risk assessments to identify potential safety and security vulnerabilities and propose mitigation strategies.
• Lobby Ambassador: Engage with visitors in the lobby by greeting them, assisting them, and using verbal de-escalation as needed.

The above essential duties are representative of major duties of positions in this position. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary based upon departmental needs. Other duties may be assigned to the above consistent with the knowledge, skills and abilities required for the job.