Health and safety officer Salary UK
Health and safety managers and officers in the UK earn a median salary of £44,551 a year (ONS ASHE 2025, gross pay, all employee jobs), and the middle half earn between £34,580 and £55,660. The figures cover the ONS occupation group “Health and safety managers and officers” (SOC 3582).
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £45,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For health and safety managers and officers, £46,444 is the typical (median) pay. That is above the UK full-time median of £39,039 — +19% versus the national average. Experienced health and safety managers and officers (top 25%) earn over £55,660.
About this role
Health and safety managers and officers (2020 SOC) lead workplace safety programmes, conducting risk assessments, investigating incidents, developing safety management systems and ensuring compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act and supporting regulations.
Key responsibilities
- Developing and implementing health and safety management systems
- Conducting risk assessments and safety audits
- Investigating incidents and implementing corrective actions
- Advising senior management on safety strategy and legal compliance
- Delivering training and promoting safety culture
Qualifications and entry routes
NEBOSH National General Certificate minimum. NEBOSH Diploma or NVQ Level 5 for manager roles. IOSH Chartered Membership (CMIOSH) is the professional standard. Specialist certifications (NEBOSH Construction, Fire, Environment) add value.
Career outlook
Strong demand, particularly in construction, energy and manufacturing. CDM (Construction Design and Management) expertise is highly valued. Chartered safety professionals command premium salaries.
Key skills
Common industries
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Oil and gas
- Utilities
- Public sector
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£26,433
0-2 years
Mid Level
£34,580
3-7 years
Senior
£55,660
8-15 years
Potential career growth: ▲ +111% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2021-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 15.1%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£1,893
Health and safety officer salary: common questions
How much do health and safety managers and officers earn in the UK?
Is £46,444 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for health and safety managers and officers?
Have health and safety managers and officers salaries kept up with inflation?
Is there a gender pay gap for health and safety managers and officers?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025). How the figures are built: salary data methodology.