(2)Qualification. - (a) A person shall not be eligible for appointment as a Safety Officer unless he-(i)Possesses a recognised degree in any branch of engineering or technology and has had practical experience of working in a factory in a supervisory capacity for a period of not less than 2 years; or a recognised degree in physics or chemistry and has a practical experience of working in a factory in a supervisory capacity for a period of not less than 6 years; or a recognised diploma in any branch of engineering or technology and has had practical experience of working in a factory in a supervisory capacity for a period of not less than 4 years.(ii)Possesses degree or diploma in industrial safety recognised by the State Government in this behalf; or has qualified at a written and viva-voce examination conducted by the Chief Inspector:Provided that such examinations shall be conducted only till adequate number of persons possessing degree or diploma in safety recognised by the State Government are not available.(b)Notwithstanding the provisions in clause (a) any person who possesses a recognised degree in engineering or technology and has had experience of not less than 2 years, in a department of the Central or State Government which deals with the administration of the Factories Act, 1948.Possesses a recognised degree or diploma in engineering or technology and has had experience of not less than 5 years, full time, on training, education, consultancy, or research in the field of accident prevention in industry or in any recognised institution, shall also be eligible for appointment as a Safety Officer:Provided that the Chief Inspector may, subject to such conditions as it may specify, grant exemption from the requirements of whole or part of sub-rule (2); if in his opinion a suitable person possessing the necessary qualifications and experience is not available for appointment:Provided further that in the case of a person who has been working as a Safety Officer for a period not less than 3 years on the date of commencement of this Rule, the Chief Inspector may, subject to such conditions as he may specify in writing relax all or any of the above said qualifications.
