Safety Jobs.
What is a good way to get my foot in the door in the safety field? I have around 7 years experience as a firefighter and emt. I’m working on a degree in safety right now.
Comments (5)
Dalton, I would suggest taking the basics now while working on your degree. OSHA 30hr is readily available online and in person; also relatively cheap. First Aid-CPR-AED and is also cheap and easy (I'm sure you're very familiar with this one).
What type of work are you interested in? Construction, manufacturing...? Will help to see what's around your current location and start preparing that way. Also, it helps to know someone. I know a large portion of my guys all got into safety from either transferring into safety for an employer or knowing someone that had a need.

Dalton, I had an extremely difficult time securing a full time safety position with my current employer. I did not know anyone and had no way of transferring into safety. However, I kept my head in the books, learned everything I could, obtained multiple degrees, and learned how to present myself at an interview. My first full time safety job came with a construction company in SC while I was living in West Virginia. I took the interview and was hired on the same day as I drove back to WV. Keep your head up and don't get discouraged. It can be done with out help it just takes faith, hope, and determination.
Next year is going to be thick with refinery maintenance shutdowns due to COVID19 and the oil&gas business climate causing lots of cancellations this year. You could get your foot in the door doing gig jobs during these shutdowns (or now of course) that are listed under these names: hole watch, fire watch, bottle watch, safety watch, or safety attendant. Your skills are a good base. Another option is to apply for an Operator position at an refinery, chemical plant, etc. Craft skills are desired, however fire brigade and EMT skills are also needed. Or contact mechanical contractors and ask if they have safety positions available. Examples in Los Angeles area are Nooter, Irwin, Brinderson, Matrix, and Ramcon, however that list will be different depending on your area.

Dalton
Another good fit would b3 confined space rescue and or rope rescue. With your background this is an area you would qualify under. This also gets you into the field of safety. The others are right, an OSHA 30 is a great start. However, getting the 1910 & 1929 in both industries can give you a good advantage. The HAZWOPPER 40 is also very good to have. Depending on your location their are many safety companies that specialize in these roles. The company I work for is one of them. Tactical Safety Solutions. Also, there is Total Safety and PK Safety. Just as some good examples. Again, this depends on your location and willingness to travel. I do wish you the best!!!