Biosafety Officer

POSITION SUMMARY: 

This position will be responsible for documenting, implementing and maintaining critical environmental, health and safety (EHS) programs and policies to ensure that current regulations and best practices are incorporated into MSD EHS procedures with a focus on ensuring that BSL-1 and BSL-2 safety procedures are adequate and properly implemented.  As a Biosafety Officer it will also be the incumbent’s responsibility to monitor and manage department documentation to ensure site readiness for regulatory compliance and internal auditing. This position is also responsible for preparation and facilitation of training for implemented programs. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

·  Responsible for the documentation, implementation and monitoring of MSD Health and Safety programs with a focus on compliance with OSHA, CDC, USDA, and DOT/IATA rules for handling biohazardous substances

·   Routine monitoring and Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA) management of MSD facilities for safety, health and compliance items

·   Develop and facilitate employee training for new and modified health and safety programs with a focus on BSL-2 safety

·    Implementation and maintenance of Global Harmonization Standard compliance with development of MSD compliant Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and associated employee training

·    Develop annual safety training schedules in accordance with pre-approved training curricula and training plans with a focus on BSL-2 and Bloodborne Pathogens training

·     Develop, execute and monitor site safety inspection program with a primary focus on proper implementation of biosafety procedures in BSL-1 and BSL-2 labs. 

·    Monitor and maintain EHS training documentation with a systematic approach

·    Administer computer based training requirements as needed

·    Participate in the management and execution of the Contractor Safety & Site Access program and monitoring

·    Partner with automation and equipment engineering to preplan safety requirements for equipment installation

·    Co-lead Biosafety Committee to address potential new safety measures and procedures.

·    Participate in on-site emergency response teams to address any accident/injuries/chemical spills or similar that may occur    on company premises.

·    Serve as EHS contact and technical support for MSD employees

·    Perform initial hazard assessments for incoming biological materials and establish appropriate handling procedures as appropriate to meet both regulatory requirements and industry best practices

·    Specific duties may vary depending upon departmental requirements

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Health, Safety or related field, or equivalent work experience.
• At least 2 years’  experience performing EHS activities within a manufacturing (preferably GMP) or laboratory environment
• At least 2 years’ experience working in a BSL-2 environment or implementing and managing BSL-2 safety protocols
• Technical writing experience preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of safety and health regulations and ability to interpret in the context of organizational activities.
• Demonstrated success in working collaboratively with employees and supervisors from other departments.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage systematic filing controls.
• Ability to work independently on assigned activities/tasks from initiation to completion.
• A wide degree of creativity and latitude is expected including the ability to multi-task and work productively in a demanding environment with changing priorities.
• Ability to train coworkers in EHS policies and procedures to ensure partners within and outside of EHS can fully assist with compliance as needed.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment to include safety helmets, gloves, eye protection, high-visibility clothing, safety footwear and safety harnesses. This includes respiratory protective equipment (RPE).
• Ability to move/lift up to 50 pounds, as needed.
• Ability to work “on call” or outside core hours, as needed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: 

• This position requires the ability to communicate and exchange information, utilize equipment necessary to perform the job, and move about the office.
• This position may be required to provide first aid assistance and chemical/biological spill response.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• This position is performed in a traditional office environment approximately 60% of the time. Other assigned tasks will be performed within individual departments such as manufacturing, warehouse space and laboratories.