Job Description: Health & Safety Officer (Market-Based)
Job Summary
Job Title: Health & Safety Officer (Market-Based)
Department: Operations / HSE
Reports To: Market Manager
Location: Assigned Market, Zanzibar
Employment Type: Full-Time
Job Purpose
The Health & Safety Officer is responsible for ensuring that all cleaning and operational activities within the assigned market are conducted safely and in compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards.
The role supports the Market Manager by actively enforcing safe practices, reducing risks, and maintaining a safe environment for workers, vendors, and the public.
Key Responsibilities
Health and Safety Compliance
The Health & Safety Officer will be responsible for ensuring that all health and safety requirements are properly followed within the assigned market.
Key duties include:
- Ensure compliance with Zanzibar occupational health and safety regulations and VClean standard operating procedures.
- Conduct daily safety inspections across all market zones.
- Enforce the mandatory use of personal protective equipment by all cleaning staff.
- Monitor the safe use, dilution, and storage of cleaning chemicals.
Risk Identification and Control
The officer will identify potential hazards and ensure that appropriate control measures are implemented promptly.
Key duties include:
- Identify hazards such as wet floors, waste overflow, sharp objects, blocked walkways, and biohazards.
- Implement immediate corrective actions where risks are identified.
- Maintain and update a practical risk register.
- Ensure safety signage is visible and used consistently across the market.
Incident Reporting and Investigation
The officer will be responsible for reporting, investigating, and following up on all safety-related incidents.
Key duties include:
- Record and investigate all incidents, injuries, and near-misses.
- Submit incident reports to the Market Manager within 24 hours.
- Conduct root cause analysis and recommend preventive actions.
- Follow up on corrective measures to ensure risks are properly addressed.
Staff Training and Supervision
The Health & Safety Officer will support staff awareness, discipline, and safe work behavior through continuous guidance and training.
Key duties include:
- Conduct toolbox talks and on-the-job safety training.
- Guide cleaners on safe work practices and proper equipment use.
- Work with supervisors to correct unsafe behaviors.
- Promote discipline and accountability in safety practices.
Waste and Environmental Management
The officer will ensure that waste handling and environmental management practices are carried out safely and responsibly.
Key duties include:
- Ensure proper waste handling, segregation, and disposal.
- Monitor hygiene standards in waste collection areas.
- Prevent environmental hazards such as drainage blockages and spills.
- Support sustainability initiatives where applicable.
Emergency Preparedness
The Health & Safety Officer will help ensure that the assigned market is prepared to respond effectively to emergencies.
Key duties include:
- Ensure the availability of first aid kits and fire extinguishers.
- Act as a first responder during incidents.
- Support emergency preparedness activities and basic drills.
- Coordinate with relevant authorities when required.
Reporting and Coordination
The officer will maintain accurate safety records and coordinate closely with the Market Manager and other relevant teams.
Key duties include:
- Maintain daily safety logs and inspection records.
- Submit weekly reports to the Market Manager.
- Escalate critical risks and repeated non-compliance.
- Support internal and external audits.
Key Performance Indicators
The performance of the Health & Safety Officer will be measured against the following indicators:
- Reduction in incidents and near-misses.
- PPE compliance rate.
- Inspection completion rate.
- Time taken to resolve hazards.
- Training frequency and attendance.
- Overall safety compliance score.
Qualifications and Requirements
Candidates should meet the following minimum qualifications and requirements:
- Certificate or Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety or a related field.
- Minimum of 1–2 years of relevant experience.
- Basic knowledge of workplace safety practices.
- Ability to read, write, and prepare reports.
- Swahili language skills are required.
- English language skills will be an added advantage.
Skills and Competencies
The ideal candidate should demonstrate the following skills and competencies:
- Strong attention to detail.
- Practical problem-solving ability.
- Confidence in enforcing rules and procedures.
- Good communication and training skills.
- Strong organizational skills.
- Reliability and discipline.
Working Conditions
This is a field-based role within a busy market environment.
The working conditions include:
- Based within an assigned market in a high-traffic environment.
- Exposure to waste, chemicals, and outdoor conditions.
- Requires active supervision and regular movement throughout the shift.
Authority Level
The Health & Safety Officer will have the authority to:
- Stop unsafe work immediately.
- Enforce PPE use and safety procedures.
- Escalate issues to the Market Manager.
Role Development and Flexibility Clause
This job description is intended to define the core responsibilities of the Health & Safety Officer at the current stage of VClean’s operations.
However, as the company grows, introduces new technologies, including mechanized cleaning, and further develops its market structures, the scope of this role will evolve.
The Health & Safety Officer is expected to remain adaptable and may be required to take on additional responsibilities, updated procedures, and expanded oversight functions in line with organizational needs, regulatory requirements, and operational improvements.
VClean Operational Note
This is a highly practical, field-based role. The officer is expected to spend the majority of their time on-site ensuring compliance, rather than performing purely administrative tasks.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications along with a detailed CV and relevant certificates to;
