Heath and Safety Specialist at WINS (Women In Need Society)

Overview

Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), the Health & Safety Lead is responsible for driving the organization’s occupational health, safety, and security strategy across all WINS sites. This role provides expert support on compliance, risk management, and safety culture, ensuring that WINS meets or exceeds regulatory requirements and maintains a safe environment for employees, volunteers, program participants and other stakeholders. The Health & Safety Lead also oversees all aspects of physical security, including alarm systems, video surveillance, and access controls.

Duties And Responsibilities

Occupational Health & Safety

• Lead the development, implementation, and ongoing review of health and safety policies, procedures, and standards in accordance with Alberta OH&S legislation and applicable Alberta Health Services requirements.
• Conduct and coordinate regular risk assessments, workplace inspections, compliance audits and job hazard analyses (JHAs), ensuring hazards are identified, documented, and mitigated.
• Lead incident investigations, determine root causes, and implement corrective and preventive actions. Track follow-up and communicate lessons learned.
• Ensure the Joint Health & Safety Committee (JHSC) Is active and effective.
• Maintain and report on key health and safety metrics (e.g., incident rates, near misses, corrective actions) and share insights with the senior leadership team.
• Collaborate with the People & Culture team to plan and deliver health and safety training and orientation for all employees and volunteers, including emergency response and safe work procedures.
• Support organizational programs related to workplace violence and harassment prevention, threat assessment, and psychological health and safety initiatives.
• Maintain and provide training of the Emergency Response Plan, including fire drills, evacuation procedures, and emergency preparedness across all sites.
• Actively manage WCB claims, including documentation, reporting, and return-to-work coordination in partnership with managers and P&C.
• Ensure timely response to all incident reports, hazards, and occupational injuries with appropriate escalation and resolution.

Security

• Oversee and support all security systems including alarm monitoring, access control systems, and video surveillance across WINS facilities.
• Manage vendor relationships for alarm and surveillance services, including installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Ensure proper access protocols are followed and updated regularly; oversee building key distribution and access credentials in collaboration with site managers. Support investigations related to security breaches, theft, or unauthorized access, including retrieval and review of surveillance footage.
• Maintain incident logs related to security alerts and coordinate follow-up with management and law enforcement when required.

Leadership and Collaboration

• Develop and maintain a three to five year roadmap to advance WINS’ H&S program, including strategic initiatives such as COR Certification
• Partner with the senior leadership team to develop and maintain WINS’ Business Continuity Plan (“BCP”) and ensure appropriate training and preparedness
• Advise the senior leadership team on safety risks, trends, and mitigation strategies.
• Partner with department leaders to foster a strong safety culture and ensure frontline alignment with policies and expectations.
• Monitor and interpret emerging safety regulations and standards, ensuring WINS remains compliant and proactive in its practices.
• Prepare reports, recommendations, and documentation for internal and external stakeholders as needed.

Administrative And Other Duties

• Maintain and update the annual H&S work plan.
• Ensure required license/training renewals are tracked and monitored through ADP or other method, including but not limited to First Aid, Food safety, Forklift and Driver training.
• Provide input and support to WINS’ commercial/auto/cyber-security insurance program, including annual renewal, investigation and claims management
• Contribute as part of the Business Support team and provide support to colleagues as required
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned by the executive team or in alignment with organizational priorities.

Requirements

Education

• Post-secondary education and/or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Safety certifications (e.g., CRSP, CHSC) preferred, but not mandatory.

Experience

• Minimum of at least 5 years of experience in an occupational health & safety role
• Experience leading health and safety programs in a multi-site and/or Not-for-profit environment is considered an asset.
• Minimum of at least 1 year of experience in managing security alarms and video surveillance
• Experience with WCB claims management and return-to-work programs is preferred.

Personal/ Professional Attributes

• Must be eligible to work in Canada
• In-depth knowledge of Alberta’s Occupational Health & Safety legislation.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively communicate (written/verbal) in English
• Professional and responsive approach, when handling stakeholder inquiries and requests.
• Demonstrated problem-solving, sound judgement, and strong work ethics
• Proficiency in Microsoft Suite with the ability to learn and use new tools and software applications.
• High level of integrity and ability to develop trusting relationships with stakeholders while maintaining confidentiality and privacy
• Strong research, analytical problem-solving, and organizational skills
• True collaborator, clear communicator, and relationship builder with strong affinity for WINS brands and commitment to the vision of the organization
• Must be able to provide satisfactory results of Vulnerable Sector Search backcheck through CPS