Safety Manager

Job Description – Safety Manager (SDES)

Position Summary

The Safety Manager is responsible for planning, implementing, and overseeing all occupational health, safety, and security practices across SDES operations within the bonded zone at King Abdulaziz Seaport.
The role focuses on container handling, yard operations, warehousing (including chemical and cold storage), heavy equipment safety, and compliance with Saudi port and government regulations.
The Safety Manager ensures full compliance with MAWANI, HCIS, ZATCA, Saudi Labor Law, and international HSE standards, while promoting a strong safety culture across all operational departments.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and continuously improve HSE policies, procedures, and SOPs aligned with SDES operations and Saudi regulations.
• Conduct routine and ad-hoc safety inspections, audits, and risk assessments across:
  • Container yards
  • Warehouses (general, chemical, cold storage)
  • Open storage yards and vehicle zones
• Ensure full compliance with:
  • MAWANI Port Safety Regulations
  • HCIS / Facility Security & Safety Requirements
  • ZATCA (Customs) safety and bonded zone regulations
  • Saudi Labor Law and international HSE standards (ISO 45001 principles).
• Lead investigations of accidents, incidents, near-misses, equipment damage, and safety violations, and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Oversee safety compliance for heavy equipment and vehicles, including:
  • Forklifts
  • Reach stackers
  • Straddle carriers
  • Empty handlers
  • Container trucks and yard vehicles
• Coordinate with Operations, Maintenance, HR, Security, and Government Authorities to ensure unified safety implementation.
• Develop and deliver safety training programs, including:
  • Equipment operation safety
  • Chemical handling & MSDS
  • Emergency response & fire safety
  • PPE compliance and safe work practices
• Prepare, test, and maintain Emergency Response Plans (ERP) and evacuation procedures for port and warehouse environments.
• Maintain accurate and compliant HSE records, including:
  • Incident reports
  • Training records
  • Inspection checklists
  • Corrective action logs
• Support audits, inspections, and official visits by MAWANI, HCIS, Civil Defense, and other authorities.
• Advise management on safety risks, trends, and improvement initiatives.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Reduction in workplace accidents, equipment incidents, and near-misses.
• Compliance level with MAWANI, HCIS, and government inspection requirements.
• Timely closure of corrective and preventive actions.
• Percentage of workforce trained and certified as per safety plans.
• Audit outcomes and regulatory compliance scores.

Qualifications and Experience

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Health & Safety, Environmental Health, Engineering, or related field.

Experience:

• Minimum 5–8 years of HSE experience in:
  • Port operations
  • Container terminals
  • Logistics, freight forwarding, or warehousing environments
• Proven experience working inside seaports or bonded zones is essential.

Certifications (Preferred):

• NEBOSH IGC / National Diploma
• IOSH / OSHA
• ISO 45001 awareness or lead auditor certification
• Any Saudi-approved safety certifications are a strong advantage.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong knowledge of Saudi safety regulations, port safety standards, and HCIS requirements.
• Hands-on experience with heavy equipment and yard safety controls.
• Excellent investigation and root-cause analysis skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and coordination abilities.
• Ability to work with government inspectors and external auditors.
• Proficient in MS Office and safety reporting systems.

Preferred Attributes

• Experience dealing with customs-controlled and high-security environments.
• Background in chemical storage or hazardous materials safety.
• Bilingual (Arabic & English).
• Calm, firm, and decisive personality suitable for operational environments.