Head of Quality Assurance, Health, Safety, Security & Environment (QHSSE)

Head of Quality Assurance, Health, Safety, Security & Environment (QHSSE)

The Head of QHSSE is responsible for leading and ensuring compliance with Health, Safety, Security, and Environmental (HSSE) regulations, particularly aligning with Malaysia’s DOSH (Department of Occupational Safety and Health) requirements and industry best practices for shipyard and engineering operations.

This role also oversees Quality Assurance (QA) functions, ensuring proper monitoring of standards, conducting ISO audits, and maintaining accurate documentation and reports. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the position plays a critical role in upholding regulatory compliance, risk mitigation, and continuous improvement in HSE, security, and quality management.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Health & Safety (H&S):
1. Develop, implement, and enforce HSE policies and procedures in alignment with Malaysia’s DOSH Act (OSHA 1994), FMA 1967, and industry regulations.
2. Ensure strict compliance with DOSH, DOE (Department of Environment), and other regulatory bodies.
3. Conduct HAZID (Hazard Identification), HIRA (Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment), and Job Safety Analysis (JSA) to identify workplace risks and implement control measures.
4. Oversee Permit-to-Work (PTW), Lockout-Tagout (LOTO), Confined Space Entry, and Working at Height (WAH) protocols in line with Malaysian safety laws.
5. Lead investigations of workplace accidents/incidents using root cause analysis methodologies (TapRooT, 5-Whys, Bowtie Analysis) and ensure corrective actions are implemented.
6. Develop and conduct HSE training programs, toolbox talks, and emergency drills to foster a Zero-Incident Culture.
7. Ensure timely and accurate incident reporting to DOSH and relevant authorities in compliance with statutory requirements.
8. Ensure compliance with ISO 14001, Malaysia’s Environmental Quality Act (EQA 1974), and DOE regulations.
9. Oversee schedule waste management, air emissions control, and hazardous materials handling in shipyard and engineering operations.
10. Develop environmental sustainability initiatives, including carbon footprint reduction, energy conservation, and pollution control measures.
11. Monitor noise, dust, and water pollution levels in onshore operations, ensuring compliance with local and international standards.
2. Security:
1. Implement and oversee physical security measures to protect personnel, assets, and facilities.
2. Develop security protocols, including access control, emergency preparedness, and crisis response.
3. Manage business continuity planning to mitigate operational risks and ensure site security compliance.
3. Quality Assurance (QA) & Compliance:
1. Oversee Integrated Management Systems (IMS) in compliance with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001.
2. Conduct internal and external ISO audits, monitor standards, and ensure all quality processes align with regulatory and industry standards.
3. Ensure proper documentation, recordkeeping, and safekeeping of reports related to quality, safety, and environmental compliance.
4. Work closely with relevant authorities, suppliers, and contractors to ensure regulatory compliance.
5. Maintain audit trails and compliance documentation for regulatory inspections and certifications.

Key Qualifications & Skills:

1. Bachelor’s/Master’s degree in Occupational Health & Safety, Environmental Science, Engineering, or a related field.
2. 5+ years of experience in HSSE and QA leadership roles within shipyard, engineering, oil & gas, or heavy engineering/industry sectors.
3. Strong knowledge of DOSH (OSHA 1994, FMA 1967), DOE (EQA 1974), OSHA, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and relevant industry standards.
4. Experience in managing DOSH regulatory approvals, inspections, and reporting processes.
5. Certification in NEBOSH, IOSH, NIOSH, Lead Auditor (ISO 9001/14001/45001) is preferred.
6. Valid certified DOSH Green Book (Competent Safety & Health Officer) is required.
7. Strong leadership skills to influence HSE culture, compliance, and quality standards.
8. Ability to manage audit processes, risk assessments, and compliance documentation effectively.
9. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills.

Reporting Structure:

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

On-site and onshore operations within shipyard, fabrication yards, and engineering facilities. Requires frequent site visits for audits, inspections, and regulatory compliance monitoring.

Preferred Candidates:

1. Local candidates from Labuan Federal Territory or State of Sabah are encouraged to apply.