Introduction
Versatility, demand, and growth — few fields offer these benefits like the Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) sector. EHS professionals work to ensure that organizational goals and operations don’t compromise the safety and well-being of workers, the public, or the environment.
As awareness of occupational safety grows, regulations tighten, and the need for compliance increases, so does the demand for EHS professionals. From construction and pharmaceuticals to IT and healthcare, nearly every industry seeks dedicated EHS officers to protect its workforce. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 4% increase in employment for safety engineers (an EHS role) by 2031.
Let’s explore what it takes to build a career as an EHS officer and how to position yourself for success.
EHS Roles, Skills, and Industries
The term “EHS officer” encompasses many roles within the EHS sector, including administrative positions like Safety Manager and EHS Manager, as well as specialized roles like Safety Engineer and Industrial Hygienist.
What’s unique about EHS is its applicability across diverse industries. EHS professionals are in demand everywhere — from education and retail to IT, e-commerce, food service, and even the performing arts, such as ballet. The opportunities are vast and varied.
Despite differences in titles and industries, certain core skills are crucial for EHS professionals across the board:
- Technical Skills: Knowledge of safety protocols, emergency and evacuation procedures, protective equipment, hazard identification, risk assessment, incident reporting, and regulatory frameworks.
- Soft Skills: Strong communication, analytical and critical thinking, observational abilities, active listening, empathy, a commitment to continuous learning, and adaptability.
Educational Requirements
A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Environmental Health Safety, Environmental Studies, Industrial Hygiene) provides a solid foundation. These programs impart the specialized knowledge necessary for day-to-day tasks. While not always required, a background in science can also be advantageous. Those looking to deepen their expertise might pursue a master’s degree in these areas.
For those who prefer a lower-commitment starting point, UniAthena’s Diploma in Environmental Health and Safety Management is a great option. Designed by experts, it’s self-paced, free to learn, and a popular choice among students. You could also advance your skills with UniAthena’s Postgraduate Certificate in Environmental Impact Assessment, which allows you to develop in-demand expertise and earn credits toward a future degree.
Beyond formal education, practical training programs are invaluable. Many institutions offer courses accredited by NEBOSH, IOSH, OSHA, and RoSPA, which can significantly enhance your qualifications. UniAthena also offers safety courses tailored to aspiring EHS officers.
Experience, Entry-Level Roles, Internships, and On-the-Job Training
Education is essential, but practical experience is highly valued by employers. If you’re still in school, internships in safety training can provide hands-on insights. After graduation, entry-level roles offer another way to build foundational experience. Accumulating diverse experience is key to advancing in this field.
Specialization and Networking
The EHS field includes a variety of specialized roles. You might choose to focus on areas like industrial hygiene, environmental science, sustainability, ergonomics, or safety engineering. Many of these paths require additional certifications beyond the core EHS skill set, though EHS fundamentals remain crucial.
Networking is also an effective strategy. Engaging with industry experts can provide insights into the challenges and benefits of different roles, helping you make more informed career decisions. Networking also helps you stay updated on industry trends and new opportunities.
Rewards and Challenges of Being an EHS Officer
Like any career, EHS comes with its own set of rewards and challenges. It’s essential to understand both before diving in.
Rewards
- A Noble Purpose: Ensuring the safety of people and the environment is a meaningful pursuit. EHS professionals often find satisfaction in their impactful work.
- Opportunities Across Industries: Demand for skilled EHS professionals is on the rise, creating career possibilities across numerous sectors.
- Competitive Compensation: EHS roles often come with strong salary benefits, though this varies by role and location.
- Innovation in Technology: With advances in AI and other technologies, the EHS field is experiencing a wave of innovation.
Challenges
- Prioritizing Safety: Advocating for safety can sometimes lead to challenging conversations with managers focused on other priorities.
- Enforcing Rules: EHS officers may need to enforce penalties or even close down operations for safety violations.
- Engaging Uninterested Employees: Encouraging a safety-first culture requires overcoming general disinterest in protocols.
- Handling Serious Incidents: EHS officers occasionally face high-stakes situations, like fires, explosions, or fatalities, which require emotional resilience.
Conclusion
The future for EHS officers is promising. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, safety engineers (a type of EHS professional) can earn a median annual salary of $103,690, with 1,500 job openings projected each year. While earnings vary based on factors like location and experience, the EHS field is on a clear growth trajectory.
If you’re in Kenya and EHS feels like your calling, you can start your educational journey with UniAthena’s beginner-friendly, self-paced, and free courses. Explore UniAthena’s master’s and postgraduate programs in EHS and related fields to gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed.
