According to the president of two national safety companies, a career in safety offers long-term job security and satisfaction, as professionals will
BOB ECKHARDT
According to the president of two national safety companies, a career in safety offers long-term job security and satisfaction, as professionals will always be in demand for workplaces looking to minimize risks and improve safety and health performance.
The safety field offers many exciting, challenging career options, affirms Benjamin Mangan, president and founder of Mancomm and American Safety Training, Inc., partner companies committed to helping businesses protect workers by providing the latest safety-compliance products and training. Plus, a career in safety offers real personal satisfaction, he adds. Knowing that you are helping to keep coworkers healthy and safe gives each workday direction and purpose.
Today’s businesses increasingly depend on safety professionals to plan, implement and maintain hazard-free working conditions. Safety needs can range from planning safer, more expedient plant layouts to changing employee behaviors and procedures. In addition to employees’ lives, Mangan attests, safety professionals protect valuable assets, including buildings, equipment, and the environment, as well as company reputations. Benefits also reach the bottom line, since reducing worker injuries and maintaining a harmonious workforce help keep productivity high and accident-related costs low.
Employment outlook
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-07 Edition, released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of occupational health and safety specialists and technicians is expected to increase as much as 17 percent through 2014. Occupational health and safety specialists held about 40,000 jobs in 2004, while technicians occupied about 12,000 positions. Following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, emergency preparedness has become a greater focus for both the public and private sectors.
Most occupational health and safety specialists and technicians work in large, private firms or for federal, state, and local governments. In May 2004, median annual earnings of occupational health and safety specialists were $51,570. The middle 50 percent earned between $39,580 and $65,370. Median annual earnings of occupational health and safety technicians were $42,130, with the middle 50 percent earning between $29,900 and $56,640.
Besides a healthy salary, a career in the safety field can offer strong advancement opportunities. Mangan notes, Safety professionals can advance to management positions, and often their skill-sets enable them can to secure positions in other key departments, like human resources or employee training.
Career opportunities
Mancomm and American Safety Training, Inc. are both fast-growing companies, says Mangan, and their expansion reflects the country’s increasing interest in workplace safety. We provide safety training and materials to help businesses comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Department of Transportation, he asserts.
Employment opportunities with both companies are reportedly plentiful, and many entry-level positions are available. Right now, we are looking for editors and researchers to help develop upcoming safety-compliance and training products, says Mangan. Û www.mancomm.com