Position Title: Continuous Improvement/Health & Safety LeadDepartment: Quality SystemsReports To: Quality System & HR Manager
Job Summary:The Continuous Improvement/Health & Safety Lead is responsible for enhancing organizational processes and overseeing health and safety programs to ensure employee well-being and regulatory compliance. This role involves assessing current practices, identifying improvement areas, implementing changes, and training staff to foster a culture of continuous improvement and safety.Key Responsibilities:Continuous Improvement:

• Lead and facilitate continuous improvement projects across various departments by assessing existing processes, workflows, and systems to identify inefficiencies and areas for enhancement.
• Collaborate with the leadership team to develop and execute an annual plan for continuous improvement initiatives.
• Implement methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen to drive process improvements.
• Work with cross-functional teams to prioritize and align improvement efforts with business objectives.
• Conduct training sessions to elevate employee skills and knowledge, promoting a culture of continuous improvement.
• Maintain organized documentation of all projects, including meeting minutes and progress reports.
• Develop process flow diagrams and guides to communicate solutions and action plans.
• Research and gather data to support informed decision-making by management.
• Monitor and track results of improvement projects, creating reports and presentations for management review.
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices to promote the adoption of new technologies and methodologies.

Health & Safety:

• Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, environmental laws, and industry standards.
• Develop, implement, and regularly review health and safety policies and procedures.
• Identify workplace hazards related to machinery, chemical handling, ergonomics, and other areas.
• Conduct risk assessments and recommend corrective actions to mitigate workplace hazards.
• Promote ergonomic improvements to reduce repetitive strain and musculoskeletal injuries.
• Organize and lead health and safety training programs for all employees, including new hires and temporary staff.
• Educate employees on safe work practices, emergency procedures, and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Facilitate Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) meetings and other safety-related training as needed.
• Lead safety audits, inspections, and investigations to maintain a safe working environment.
• Investigate accidents, incidents, and near misses; prepare reports and implement corrective actions.
• Analyze incident trends and implement measures to prevent recurrence.
• Ensure all incidents are reported to relevant authorities in accordance with regulations.
• Stay informed about changes in health, safety, and environmental regulations affecting the industry.
• Maintain accurate safety documentation, including Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and safety records.
• Liaise with regulatory agencies during inspections and audits.
• Develop and maintain emergency response plans for various workplace emergencies.
• Ensure sign-in sheets are updated for accurate employee accountability during fire drills.
• Prepare regular health and safety performance reports for management, highlighting key performance indicators (KPIs) and areas for improvement.
• Act as a liaison between leadership, departments, and external regulatory bodies on health and safety matters.
• Promote awareness of health and safety standards across all organizational levels.
• Foster an environment of openness, trust, and mutual respect to enhance health and safety performance.
• Lead by example by adhering to all safety rules and procedures and employing accepted safe work practices.

Education, Experience & Personal Characteristics:

• 2+ years of experience in project management or business within a manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience leading continuous improvement projects using methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, etc.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., Six Sigma, 5S, Kaizen, SMED, TQM).
• Knowledge of quality improvement methodologies and ISO 9001 Quality System Program.
• OSHA certification (JHSC certificate) or equivalent health and safety qualifications is an asset.
• Experience in a health and safety role within manufacturing or a similar industry.
• Familiarity with health and safety regulations, risk management, and accident investigation.
• Advanced skills with Microsoft Office.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and changing environment.
• Capacity to multitask effectively.