Bidvest Tank Terminals is Hiring Safety Watch (7 Positions)
Listing Reference: BTT250404-1
Listing Status: Open
Position Summary
Company: Bidvest Tank Terminals
Industry: Chemical Storage & Logistics
Job Category: Occupational Health & Safety
Location: Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Contract Type: Permanent
Remuneration: Market-related
EE Position: Yes
Closing Date: 2025/04/11
Introduction
Bidvest Tank Terminals, a leader in bulk liquid and gas storage solutions across South Africa, is offering seven permanent Safety Watch positions within its Durban-based SHEP (Safety, Health, Environmental, and Process Safety) department. If you have a passion for workplace safety, understand the dynamics of confined space work, and are looking to advance your career in a structured, safety-first environment, this could be the ideal role for you.
As a Safety Watcher, you’ll play a critical part in maintaining a safe working environment, particularly during high-risk operations such as confined space entries and hazardous material handling. Reporting directly to the Safety Watch Charge Hand, your role will require vigilance, communication, and a comprehensive understanding of safety legislation and emergency protocols.
This is a great opportunity to join one of South Africa’s most respected industrial service providers and contribute to its continued success through your expertise in safety monitoring and emergency response.
Job Description
The Safety Watcher is responsible for overseeing activities within confined spaces and other hazardous work zones to ensure full compliance with safety regulations and operational procedures. You will be the front-line safety officer on-site during critical operations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Monitor all activities involving confined space entry according to relevant legislation and company protocols
- Ensure proper entry procedures are followed and all identified hazards are addressed
- Verify the effectiveness of controls applied to maintain safe systems of work
- Regularly inspect work areas for the presence or risk of flammable vapors or liquid spills
- Confirm that all hazardous work is properly documented with permits and supporting safety documentation
- Identify potential conflicts between the proposed work and ongoing activities nearby
- Intervene in any unsafe, hazardous, or emergency situations to mitigate risk
- Conduct gas testing, hazard identification, and risk assessments prior to and during work operations
- Recognize changes in process conditions and act to stop work if new risks emerge
- Maintain permit to work (PTW) conditions throughout the operational task
- Ensure continuous visual and verbal communication with teams in confined spaces
- Operate and maintain fire safety equipment such as extinguishers, hydrants, monitors, and hose carts
- Remove flammable materials from ignition-prone zones
- Respond immediately to fire incidents, raise alarms, and implement fire-fighting protocols
- Guarantee the work area is free from fire hazards such as sparks or embers upon completion
- Return emergency equipment to its designated location after use
- Administer basic first aid in line with safety procedures if needed
Ideal Candidate
The successful applicant will meet the following minimum requirements:
- Matric / Grade 12 / National Certificate
- Minimum of 2 years’ experience in a similar safety-related role
- Minimum of 2 years’ experience working in a chemical storage or manufacturing environment
- Strong awareness of occupational health and safety protocols
- Proven track record of monitoring confined space work and hazardous environments
Role Responsibility
As a Safety Watcher, you’re not just watching – you’re proactively protecting. You’ll be entrusted with ensuring every worker returns home safely by enforcing operational safety, performing checks, and taking immediate action in unsafe conditions.
You’ll also work collaboratively with team members and supervisors to uphold safety standards, provide feedback during toolbox talks, and contribute to the overall safety culture of the site.
Skills & Attributes
To succeed in this role, the candidate should demonstrate the following:
- Effective verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to maintain professionalism under pressure
- Solid understanding of relevant occupational safety legislation
- Ability to deal constructively with workplace conflict
- Practical experience and knowledge of firefighting methods and emergency procedures
- Familiarity with hazardous materials and fire prevention practices
- Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills under emergency conditions
- Physically fit and able to respond quickly to safety incidents
- Excellent observational skills and attention to detail
- Commitment to upholding high safety standards
Why Join Bidvest Tank Terminals?
Company Culture & Values:
Bidvest Tank Terminals is part of the reputable Bidvest Group and prides itself on a values-driven culture rooted in integrity, accountability, safety, and excellence. We are committed to employee growth, inclusivity, and creating a safe, supportive workplace where you can build a fulfilling career.
Our operations are underpinned by a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and compliance. We aim to attract safety professionals who share our dedication to creating a zero-harm environment.
Benefits & Perks:
- Competitive remuneration packages
- Access to ongoing training and skills development
- Inclusive and safety-conscious work culture
- Opportunities for career progression within the Bidvest Group
- Medical aid and retirement contributions (if applicable)
- Supportive team structure with mentorship from experienced safety professionals
How to Apply?
Ready to take the next step in your health and safety career? Bidvest Tank Terminals is calling all committed safety professionals to apply for this dynamic role in Durban. Applications close on 2025/04/11, so don’t delay.
Application Instructions:
Submit your CV, certified copy of your Matric certificate, and a brief cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and motivation for applying. Please quote Reference Number BTT250404-1 in your application.
Apply via the Bidvest careers portal or email your application directly to the HR department at [Insert application email/contact info].
Final Call to Action:
If you’re safety-conscious, proactive, and passionate about making a difference in high-risk environments, this opportunity is tailor-made for you. Join Bidvest Tank Terminals and help us drive world-class safety standards in the heart of Durban’s industrial sector.
