Health & Safety Officer

Role Overview

Durham International School is seeking a Health & Safety Officer to lead its health and safety function and keep the school community safe across daily activities, facilities, and emergency situations. The officer will translate Kenyan safety and education requirements into practical procedures, monitor how well those procedures are followed, and address risks affecting learners, employees, contractors, and visitors.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the school’s health and safety programme, maintaining procedures aligned with relevant Kenyan laws, education standards, public health requirements, and fire safety rules.
• Inspect school buildings, grounds, equipment, and work practices to identify hazards and recommend corrective action.
• Coordinate emergency preparedness, including fire safety arrangements, evacuation procedures, drills, and incident response.
• Promote safe practices among staff, learners, contractors, and visitors through clear guidance and training.
• Maintain health and safety records, including inspection findings, incidents, risk assessments, and follow-up actions.
• Investigate accidents, injuries, and near misses, identify contributing factors, and advise on measures to prevent recurrence.
• Support the school in meeting its duties under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, education safety standards, the Basic Education Act, the Children Act, and the Public Health Act.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Safety and Health, Environmental Health, Public Health, or a related discipline; a diploma may be considered alongside substantial relevant experience.
• At least four years of experience in a health and safety role, ideally in a school or another institution serving a large population.
• Current first aid and fire safety or fire marshal certifications.
• Strong working knowledge of Kenyan health and safety legislation and the Ministry of Education Safety Standards Manual for Schools.
• Registration with, or eligibility to register with, a relevant professional body, such as a DOSHS-approved safety adviser scheme or the Public Health Officers Council.
• NEBOSH, IOSH, or an equivalent international qualification is an advantage.
• Experience working with children and familiarity with child protection are desirable.

What We Offer / Why Join

This role offers the opportunity to shape practical safety standards in a school environment and contribute directly to protecting children and the wider school community.