“Safety Officer” he replied.
I had no idea at all but then again, I was under contract and a first timer so I had no choice but to do as instructed. I was given lots of Safety reading materials in preparation for a scheduled interview with the client. I was so disinterested! It bored me reading them. I could only memorize what P.P.E stands for and that was all.
Interview day came. I was so nervous I could hear my heart pounding. I managed to contain my lips to rattle but not my hands. They were shaking incessantly.
“What is the role of a Safety Officer?” the interviewer went on. That question lingered for a moment before I finally unsealed my lips. “To look after the safety of all workers and to ensure they are protected by means of wearing Personal Protective Equipment.” I answered showing confidence. He was seemed impressed but waiting for me to talk more so I did. I’ve practiced it in the car on the way. Haha! Instantly, he called on his people about 50 of them. I was introduced as the new Safety Officer for that particular project. Whoa! I was approved. Later on I had learned that the Project in-charge was just so desperate to have Safety Officer for his project that could write and speak English fluently. He has been rejecting a few applicants before me. Was I lucky?
The GM congratulated me. I wasn’t happy. What this being S.O could make a difference for me anyway?
After a month or so, the new role began to sink-in my system. I’d becoming to like it especially when people pay respect every time they see me but it wasn’t easy. There’s big responsibility and accountability it entails. It requires decision-making and all. I was frantic not to be able to perform well as expected so I made research trying to get an overview and full understanding of what I am involved with. What or who is Safety Officer, its role and responsibility in deeper meaning of it? I could not be in a fight not in full battle gear otherwise I will lose helpless. So I made self study and did some research.
One day, an acquaintance has mentioned then PSSE-MEC upon learning about my job. “This is it!” I uttered almost whispering. I got so interested but to my dismay the venue of trainings/seminar was too way far from where I used to live… from Jubail to Dhahran, 2hrs away!? Transportation problem! Taxi will cost me a lot plus I knew there was membership fee that goes to training materials, certificates and more. Shamelessly, I had to borrow money for my transportation back and forth. “I know one day this will pay off” I convinced myself.
It went on and on. I dutifully attended almost each seminar conducted by the generous leaders and officers of PSSE-MEC now PSSP-MER. Their dedication and noble purpose is indescribable. I learned a lot. It’s amazing that there are people who do extraordinary to be able to help other people especially when it comes to uplifting not only the morale but monetary wise as well. The organization that I could never forget and I will always be proud of it as a member. The only organization which filled my emptiness (as Safety Officer) and made me what I am today.
Did my GM increase my salary during those days? No! But PSSP-MER did. When an interviewer knows that you belong to PSSP-MEC, Alas! They would not scrutinize you more but discuss the offer instead. True enough!
I can say, it’s the dedication to the work will bring you to the next level. Study more and learn more. The best tool to enhance knowledge. It’s a continuous process as they say. Being competent is not all about which school did you graduate from, it is about the capability, ability and attitude of doing things right and doing the right thing. No, I did not finish engineering course (wish I did) but it did not stop me to grow as Safety Practitioner.
Well, I am not in the best situation now but I could not believe what I have achieved so far. From being scraggy S.O, I’m thankful (by luck) I am now managing the Safety Department of a Construction company in KSA. Sometimes opportunity comes as a LUCK but you have to prove it you can well execute the position. Earning bigger than before plus I am able to help save a finger, and even life.
“Light removes DARKNESS so as Knowledge annihilates IGNORANCE.” Let us not stop learning.
Safe regards,
The Practitioner
