Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) Specialist – Data Center at Airtel

About The Role

• Nxtra by Airtel in Africa is developing a Data Centre Division that will build the most advanced, secure and efficient Data Centres in the African Countries where it shall operate. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Health and Safety Specialist to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all personnel and the protection of assets within our state-of-the-art data centre in Nigeria. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring comprehensive health and safety programs, complying with all relevant Nigerian regulations and industry best practices. This role requires a strong understanding of data centre environments and the associated hazards.

Airtel Africa is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and remain fully committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Responsibilities

• Implement safety standards, policies and practices including but not limited to; safety management systems, training, and risk assessments for the data centre, in accordance with Nigerian regulations (e.g., relevant OSHA guidelines, The Factories Act etc.) and international best practices.
• Conduct regular safety inspections and audits of the data centre facilities, identifying and assessing hazards, and recommending corrective actions.
• Develop safety plans for on-site emergencies, special events and other unique safety situations.
• Investigate accidents and near misses, prepare detailed reports and implement preventative measures to avoid recurrence.
• Develop and deliver safety training programs for all data centre personnel, covering topics such as fire safety, electrical safety, hazardous materials handling, and emergency procedures.
• Manage the data Centre’s emergency response plan, ensuring its effectiveness and regular updating. Conduct regular drills and exercises.
• Maintain accurate records of all safety-related incidents, inspections, training, and documentation.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, regulations, and industry standards pertaining to health and safety in Nigeria.
• Collaborate with other groups within Nxtra (Facilities Managers, Human Resources, Operations) and outside vendors (General Contractors, sub-contractors, Emergency Services) as they relate to operations and construction.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the HSMS, recommending improvements as needed.
• Manage the procurement and maintenance of safety equipment and supplies.
• Stay current on the latest health and safety regulations, best practices, and technologies relevant to data centres.
• Develop and maintain a positive safety culture within the data centre.
• Assist in the preparation of safety reports for management and regulatory bodies.
• Able to work as part of a team and provide safety support to sites across different African countries when required
• Ensure safety recordkeeping and provide accurate reporting and metrics to support business safety initiatives.
• Consult and work with legal for safety regulations interpretations and investigations.
• Develop and implement solutions to eliminate exposure to these risks and prevent injury.
• Adapt to fast-paced environments with changing circumstances, direction, strategy and deadlines
• Domestic and international travel for emergency and non-emergency may be required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in safety engineering, Occupational Health and Safety, or a related field. NEBOSH certifications (or equivalent) are highly desirable.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in a health and safety role, with demonstrable experience in a constructions; data centre or IT infrastructure environment preferred.
• Comprehensive knowledge of Nigerian health and safety regulations and legislation.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and training skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within Nigeria as required.