Occupational Safety & Risk Management

Bakersfield College's Occupational Safety and Risk Management program covers topics such as workplace safety regulations, risk management, emergency preparedness, and hazard identification and control.
Safety professionals strive to protect people, property, and the environment using hazard identification and risk control techniques, working to balance safety and compliance with production and profit. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be prepared to take on roles such as safety coordinator, risk management specialist, and safety inspector in a variety of industries.
What is Occupational Safety and Risk Management (OSRM)?
Occupational Safety and Risk Management is a field that focuses on ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of workers in various industries. It involves identifying and assessing potential hazards in the workplace, implementing measures to control or mitigate those hazards, and developing policies and procedures to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Risk management is a key aspect of this field, which involves identifying potential risks and taking steps to minimize them, to protect both employees and the organization. The goal of Occupational Safety and Risk Management is to prevent workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities, and to promote a safe and healthy work environment.
Is Occupational Safety and Risk Management (OSRM) Right for Me?
Occupational Safety and Risk Management may be right for you if you have a passion for identifying and mitigating hazards, have a strong attention to detail, and are interested in developing and implementing safety policies and procedures. If you have a background or interest in science, engineering, or business may find this degree to be a good fit for their career goals.
Here are some key traits and skills that would make someone a good fit for studying Occupational Safety and Risk Management:
- Attention to Detail
- Analytical Skills
- Communication Skills
- Problem-Solving Skills
- Technical Skills
- Ethical Behavior
- Adaptability
- Leadership Skills
- Passion for Helping Others
- Physical Stamina
Degrees/Certificates
Occupational Safety and Risk Management (OSRM) Careers
Here are some potential careers someone can have with an Occupational Safety and Risk Management associate degree:
- Safety Coordinator: Safety coordinators are responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring safety programs in various workplaces. They conduct safety inspections, identify potential hazards, and develop policies and procedures to minimize risks. They also provide training to employees on safety procedures and ensure that the workplace is compliant with safety regulations.
- Risk Management Specialist: Risk management specialists are responsible for identifying potential risks and developing strategies to mitigate those risks. They may conduct risk assessments, develop policies and procedures to minimize risks, and develop emergency plans for potential hazards.
- Safety Inspector: Safety inspectors conduct inspections of various workplaces to ensure that they comply with safety regulations. They identify potential hazards, recommend corrective actions, and provide feedback to management on safety compliance.
- Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Specialist: EHS specialists are responsible for developing and implementing safety and environmental programs to ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations. They conduct safety and environmental audits, identify potential hazards, and develop policies and procedures to minimize risks.
- Loss Prevention Specialist: Loss prevention specialists develop and implement programs to reduce losses and prevent accidents in the workplace. They conduct safety audits, identify potential hazards, and develop policies and procedures to minimize risks.
- Occupational Health and Safety Technician: Occupational health and safety technicians work with safety professionals to identify potential hazards, develop safety policies and procedures, and provide training to employees on safety procedures. They may also conduct safety inspections and assist with safety compliance.
- Construction Safety Coordinator: Construction safety coordinators are responsible for developing and implementing safety programs on construction sites. They identify potential hazards, develop safety policies and procedures, and provide training to employees on safety procedures. They also conduct safety inspections and ensure that the construction site is compliant with safety regulations.

Transfer to a University
Department and Pathway
Academic Department: Industrial Technology
Career & Learning Pathway: Industrial Technology & Transportation
Courses
See the entire list of Occupational Safety & Risk Management (OSRM) courses available at BC in the catalog
Not sure where to start? Let us help.
Meet with a CTE Advisor
Call (661) 395-4402 for an appointment.