22232
Occupational health and safety specialists
- Express Entry skill level
- Yes
- Regulated in Québec
- No
- In demand in Manitoba
- Yes
Classification
Natural & applied sciences
2 › 22 › 222 › 2223
Definition
Occupational health and safety specialists review, evaluate and monitor health and safety hazards and develop strategies to prevent, control and eliminate accidents and occupational injuries. They inspect the workplace environments, equipment and practices to ensure compliance with organization and government environment, health and safety standards and regulations. They are employed throughout the public and private sectors.
Main duties
- This group performs some or all of the following duties:
- Lead and participate in workplace audits and investigations of safety concerns, incidents and accidents
- Lead and participate in workplace inspections to ensure that equipment, materials and production processes do not present a safety or health hazard to employees
- Develop and implement health and safety programs, including standard operating procedures, policies and training to mitigate risk, optimize worker's health and safety and foster a positive occupational health and safety culture
- Initiate enforcement procedures on workplaces contravening organization and government health and safety standards and regulations
- Provide training to employers, employees and the general public on issues of workplace safety
- Communicate, engage and influence decision-makers and workers to ensure compliance with health and safety legislation and regulations
Example job titles
- •health and safety officer
- •occupational health and safety officer
- •occupational health supervisor
- •occupational safety consultant
- •occupational safety coordinator
Overview
Under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system, occupational health and safety specialists are categorized under NOC code 22232, which is classified as TEER 2. These professionals play a critical role in Canadian workplaces by inspecting work environments, processes, and equipment to ensure compliance with government health and safety regulations and standards. They design and implement safety programs, conduct hazard assessments, investigate workplace accidents, and provide training to minimize risks and prevent occupational hazards, injuries, or illnesses.
Employment requirements for NOC 22232 typically include a university degree or college diploma in occupational health and safety, environmental health, or a related science or engineering discipline. While not always mandatory, professional certifications such as the Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) designation are highly valued by Canadian employers. Individuals under this NOC code are eligible for Canadian immigration pathways, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program managed through the Express Entry system, as well as various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Disclaimer: This information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional immigration advice. For official guidelines, please consult Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.
Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.