Health & Safety Manager Location: Watford-based head office with travel to sites across the UK Rate: £400 per day Engagement: Freelance / Self-employed / Permenant Overview We are seeking an experienced Health & Safety Manager to join a well-established subcontractor working on groundworks and civil engineering projects. This is a critical role requiring a proactive and knowledgeable professional who can take full ownership of the company’s health and safety practices—from strategic planning through to site-level execution. The successful candidate will be responsible for writing and implementing comprehensive Health & Safety strategies and ensuring best practices are consistently applied across all projects. Key Responsibilities Strategy & Systems Develop and implement a company-wide Health & Safety strategy. Review and refine the business’s safety management systems, policies, and procedures. Ensure full compliance with relevant legislation and ISO standards. Site Operations Carry out regular site audits, inspections, and risk assessments. Lead incident investigations and deliver corrective actions. Provide practical support to site teams and senior leadership. Conduct inductions, toolbox talks, and internal training. Leadership & Compliance Act as the principal point of contact for all H&S-related matters. Maintain detailed records of incidents, audits, and training. Submit structured reports and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement. Essential ISO Standards Experience The ideal candidate will be experienced in aligning company practices with the following ISO management systems: ISO 45001:2018 (Occupational Health & Safety) Ability to lead the implementation and continuous improvement of systems under this core H&S framework. ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management) Familiarity with integrated quality systems—particularly as they relate to standard operating procedures, corrective actions, and audit preparation. ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management) Understanding of environmental controls and compliance within a civil engineering context, including site waste and pollution prevention. Candidates with prior experience supporting external or internal ISO audits and driving readiness for accreditation will be strongly preferred. Candidate Requirements NEBOSH General Certificate or Construction Certificate (minimum); ideally NEBOSH Diploma or equivalent. Strong working knowledge of UK construction H&S regulations, including CDM 2015. Prior experience working with subcontractors in groundworks and civil engineering. Comfortable working across multiple sites with limited supervision. Full UK driving licence. Desirable Qualities IOSH membership (GradIOSH or CMIOSH). Approachable, detail-oriented, and committed to high standards. Strong communicator, confident with influencing both site operatives and senior management