The work of health and safety staff - their value

Health and safety is very important in the NHS. Health and safety officers aim to minimise risks to patients, staff and visitors.

This page has information on the role of a health and safety officer in the NHS, including entry requirements and skills needed. 

They are responsible for the health and safety of everyone who works in, or uses, the NHS in hospitals, health centres and headquarters buildings.

Working as a health and safety officer, you will look at all aspects of health and safety including

• infection control
• safeguarding children and vulnerable adults
• dealing with hazardous substances
• violence and abusive behaviour
• manual handling (lifting, carrying, etc)
• food hygiene

Health and safety officers

• inspect buildings
• draw up health and safety policies and procedures
• train staff
• ensure that staff follow procedures
• investigate health and safety incidents and accidents

You will be based in an office which may be in a hospital or in a headquarters building. You will spend a lot of time around hospital wards, departments and clinics. You may also visit other sites such as health centres.

You'll often work in a team with a health and safety manager and one or more health and safety advisers (or technicians). Your team is supported by assistants, other staff and other admin staff