My boss just recently retired and I have promoted to the Safety Manager. I am a team of one and have been struggling with other employees "dumping" tasks on me that they no longer want to do. How have the rest of you handled turning down requests in a manner in which you do not offend people or create a weird "vibe" within the working relationship? I receive requests from people of all levels.

My second question is, does anyone have specific tasks that Safety professionals should be doing in the organization and not be doing?  To be more specific, what tasks are you asked to do in your safety professions, in general, that you feel are not part of your job description as a safety professional? Thank you!

Dear Mini,

Answering the second question first. 1. Maintaining all the records associated with H&S. 2. Inspecting the facility for compliance. 3. Performing training Depending upon the facility, there are a whole host of tasks which must be done to ensure a safe workplace.

First question. - Step one - Write down all the tasks you must perform to ensure compliance. Brainstorm and go back to old records. Step two - Consolidate the list into something reasonable. Step three - Get with your new boss and let them know what is happening. They are also on the hook for the safety in the plant if something goes wrong. Especially, if there is someone on site above him.

With respect to the vibe, try "I don't think that falls under my current duties, let's talk to ______ and see who it belongs too." and go with them. You'll be able to defend your position that it is not your task and be helping them find the correct answer. Sneaky.

Finally, you need to find out what "additional" tasks you former boss did. Since he retired, call him and ask. He should be willing to help and provide some guidance.

MikeCJ

In addition MikeCJ's advise, consult with your Human Resources department.  Most organizations have specific written job descriptions for each defined position in the company.  See what the desciption says and compare to what you're being asked to do. 

I  guess the question to you would be, what does your job description for safety manager say? I would go by that.

Educate.  

I'll add one more thing.  Even if it is a safety related activity, if it is not in your area of expertice don't do it until you get some knowledge of the subject.

 

For example: if someone assigns you the responsibility of facilitating getting rid of the hazardous waste from the facility, if you do not know the rules regarding hazardous waste, make sure you get training on the subject before taking on the responsibility.

 

As a safety professional you are legally responsible for all your actions and all your inaction should either cause someone to get hurt.   The expectation from a liability standpoint is did tyhe person have the skills, abilities, and knowledge to be responsible for that activity