Health & Safety/Facilities Manager

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Job Title: Health & Safety / Facilities Manager
Location: York
Company: Black Cat Fireworks

About Black Cat Fireworks:
Black Cat Fireworks is a leading manufacturer and supplier of consumer fireworks, committed to safety, quality, and excellent customer service. We operate within a highly regulated environment requiring strict adherence to health and safety standards and regulatory compliance including COMAH regulations.

Position Overview:

The Health & Safety / Facilities Manager will be responsible for the operational management of health and safety and facilities functions at our warehouse. This role will ensure compliance with all statutory requirements, including the Control of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH) regulations, and maintain a safe, secure, and efficient working environment.

Detailed Roles and Responsibilities:

• Health & Safety Management:
  • Develop, implement, and continuously improve robust health and safety policies, systems, and procedures that comply with UK statutory requirements, specifically focusing on explosives and storage regulations.
  • Manage compliance with COMAH regulations, including preparation and maintenance of the safety report, major accident prevention policies, and emergency response plans.
  • Conduct comprehensive risk assessments and hazard analyses with particular emphasis on firework storage, handling, and manufacturing processes.
  • Lead regular health and safety audits and inspections across the warehouse and production areas, identifying areas for improvement and ensuring corrective actions are effectively implemented.
  • Oversee incident investigation processes, including root cause analysis, reporting to HSE, and tracking preventative measures.
  • Coordinate and deliver health and safety training programs for all employees including temporary staff, including inductions and specialised training related to explosives and firework safety.
  • Monitor workplace environmental conditions such as ventilation, lighting, fire safety systems, and emergency equipment to ensure standards meet regulatory compliance and best practice.
• COMAH and Regulatory Liaison:
  • Serve as the primary liaison with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), local authorities, emergency services, and other regulatory bodies in matters of health and safety and COMAH compliance.
  • Prepare and submit all mandatory notification and documentation required under COMAH and other relevant legislation.
  • Participate in external audits and inspections, ensuring timely responses to any findings or compliance requirements.
• Facilities Management:
  • Manage day-to-day operations and maintenance of the warehouse and associated facilities, ensuring equipment, structural elements, and infrastructure are safe, functional, and compliant with operational needs.
  • Oversee preventative and reactive maintenance scheduling, working closely with service contractors and vendors.
  • Manage security systems and protocols, including access control and CCTV, to safeguard assets, personnel, and inventory.
  • Ensure environmental compliance requirements are met, including waste management and chemical storage protocols.
  • Lead space planning and office moves/reconfigurations as needed to support operational efficiency.
• Leadership & Continuous Improvement:
  • Actively promote a culture of safety and compliance across all levels of the organisation, encouraging employee engagement and ownership of health and safety responsibilities.
  • Analyse health and safety performance data to identify trends and areas for improvement, reporting regularly to senior management.
  • Stay abreast of changes in health and safety, COMAH, and facilities legislation and best practices, recommending updates to policies and procedures accordingly.

Technical and Relevant Experience:

• Minimum 5 years' experience in a Health and Safety leadership role within a hazardous manufacturing or warehousing environment, preferably involving explosives, chemicals, or similar controlled substances.
• Confidence and ability to understand COMAH regulations, particularly relating to major accident hazards in storage and handling of explosive materials.
• Proven track record of successfully managing liaison and compliance with the HSE and other regulatory agencies and ability to prepare safety reports and emergency plans.
• NEBOSH National or Diploma qualification or equivalent health and safety professional certification is essential.
• Practical experience conducting risk assessments, safety audits, accident investigations, and emergency preparedness.
• Facilities management expertise including maintenance planning, contractor management, security systems, and environmental compliance in an industrial setting.
• Strong understanding of fire safety regulations, hazardous substance control, and workplace environmental standards.
• Excellent organisational, communication, and leadership skills, with the ability to influence staff at all levels and foster a positive health and safety culture.
• Proficient use of Microsoft Office suite.

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