JOB TITLE: HOD – Safety Officer INDUSTRY: Petroleum / Petrochemical / Industrial Operations LOCATION: (Offices based in Vereeniging) Sites: Kroonstad, Klerksdorp, Oos London, Bethlehem, Ladysmith en Waltloo. JOB PURPOSE:The purpose of this role is to ensure full compliance with Occupational Health & Safety legislation, company SHEQ standards, environmental regulations, and operational safety procedures within a high-risk petroleum and industrial environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for implementing, monitoring, and continuously improving all health, safety, environmental, and risk management systems across the operation. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Ensure compliance with the Occupational Health & Safety Act and all relevant petroleum industry regulationsDevelop, implement, and maintain SHEQ policies, procedures, and safety management systemsConduct regular site inspections, audits, and risk assessmentsInvestigate incidents, accidents, near misses, and non-conformances, including implementation of corrective actionsEnsure all safety files, permits, and compliance documentation are maintained and up to dateManage contractor safety compliance and induction processesFacilitate toolbox talks, safety meetings, and employee safety trainingMonitor hazardous chemical handling, fuel storage compliance, and environmental controlsEnsure emergency preparedness procedures, evacuation plans, and firefighting systems are compliant and operationalCompile monthly SHEQ reports and compliance statistics for managementLiaise with regulatory authorities, auditors, and external service providers where requiredDrive a strong safety culture throughout the organisationEnsure ISO standards and internal safety standards are maintained where applicableAssist management with continuous improvement initiatives related to operational safety and risk reduction MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Grade 12 / MatricRelevant Safety Qualification (SAMTRAC / NEBOSH / Diploma in Safety Management or equivalent)SACPCMP registration advantageousMinimum 5–10 years’ experience within a petroleum, petrochemical, fuel, refinery, manufacturing, or heavy industrial environmentStrong knowledge of OHS Act, risk management, incident investigation, and environmental complianceExperience with permit systems, contractor management, and high-risk operationsComputer literate (Microsoft Office, reporting systems, SHEQ systems)Valid driver’s licence and own transport ADVANTAGEOUS EXPERIENCE: ISO 45001 / ISO 14001 exposureHazardous chemical handling and storage experienceEmergency response and firefighting trainingExperience managing multiple operational sitesInternal auditing experienceExperience within depots, refineries, tank farms, or fuel distribution environments KEY COMPETENCIES: Strong leadership and communication skillsHigh attention to detailExcellent problem-solving and investigation abilitiesStrong administrative and reporting capabilitiesAbility to work under pressure in high-risk operational environmentsExcellent organisational and compliance management skills WORKING CONDITIONS: Industrial / petroleum operational environmentExposure to hazardous environments and site-based activitiesMay require overtime, standby duties, or travel between sites SALARY RANGE:Market-related salary package based on qualifications, experience, and operational responsibility level.