Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Officer
Job Description
Job Description
Position Overview:
The Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Officer is responsible for planning, implementing, and monitoring policies and programs that promote environmental protection and workplace safety in a healthcare setting. This role ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations and fosters a culture of safety and sustainability across hospital operations. The EHS Officer collaborates with clinical staff, facilities management, infection control, and administrative leadership to manage risks associated with hazardous materials, waste, biological agents, and emergency incidents. This person reports to the VP of Center Support Services.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Program Development and Compliance
- Design, update, and oversee EHS policies in accordance with PACE SEMI, OSHA, CMS, STATE, and regulatory bodies affiliated with PACE SEMI organization
- Conduct environmental risk assessments and develop corrective action plans while partnering with various leadership and staff.
- Ensure healthcare-specific compliance in areas such as infection control, and biomedical waste.
-create action plans for Zero tolerance and staff safety for health centers and Corp. Implement plans partnering with necessary leaders and staff appropriately.
2. Training and Education:
- Develop and deliver safety orientation and continuing education programs for clinical, laboratory, and support staff.
- Partner with Center leadership, environmental leadership, staff, and vendors to conduct drills and simulations (e.g., fire, chemical spill, active shooter) to enhance emergency preparedness.
- Promote awareness campaigns on topics such as ergonomics, hand hygiene, and safe lifting techniques.
3. Inspections and Monitoring partnered with leadership and staff:
- Perform regular audits of clinical spaces, laboratories, mechanical rooms, and utility areas.
- Monitor air and water quality, ventilation systems, and waste disposal processes partnered.
- Identify hazards and implement controls to reduce risks.
4. Incident Investigation and Reporting:
- Lead investigations into workplace injuries, spills, or exposure events.
- Maintain accurate logs and reports on incidents, near misses, and safety improvements.
- Liaise with insurance providers and legal counsel as needed for incident follow-up.
5. Hazardous Materials and Waste Management:
- Oversee the handling, storage, transport, and disposal of chemical, pharmaceutical, and biological waste.
- Maintain up-to-date Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and chemical inventories.
- Coordinate with external waste disposal vendors and regulatory inspectors.
6. Emergency Preparedness and Response:
- Maintain facility-wide emergency plans and coordinate with first responders.
- Support business continuity planning and disaster recovery initiatives.
- Serve on the PACE SEMI’s emergency response team.
Qualifications:
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Occupational Health, Industrial Hygiene, Public Health, or related field.
- Master’s degree preferred.
Experience:
- Minimum of 3–5 years in EHS roles, preferably in a healthcare or laboratory setting.
- Familiarity with infection prevention protocols and hospital accreditation standards.
Certifications:
- Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), or Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS) preferred.
- HAZWOPER, OSHA 30-Hour, or equivalent certifications desirable.
Skills:
- Strong knowledge of environmental health regulations and safety engineering principles.
- Excellent communication, training, and interpersonal skills.
- Proficiency with EHS management systems and software tools.
Work Environment:
- May involve exposure to biological or chemical hazards during site inspections.
- Must be available to respond to emergencies outside of normal working hours.
- Frequently required to walk long distances throughout hospital facilities.
-Any other duties or responsibility required as necessary by leader or leadership