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Stepping into the role of Safety Officer? Learn how to build confidence, form your safety team, and create a culture of protection in your church. This guide helps new leaders turn good intentions into practical action during their first 90 days.
A Story to Begin
It was her first Sabbath wearing the title Safety Officer. Sister Joni had been asked by her pastor to “look after safety for the church”—but she quickly realized she didn’t know where to start. The fire extinguishers were mounted, the ushers had a vague idea of where the exits were, and the children’s ministries leader thought “Safety Sabbath” meant just checking the playground fence.By the end of the service, Joni had a list of questions longer than her Sabbath School notes. She knew she needed a plan—not just for herself, but for the entire church family.
This is the reality for many new Safety Officers—called to serve, eager to protect, and searching for the best way to begin.
Understanding Your Role
Being a Safety Officer is more than managing emergencies—it’s a ministry of stewardship, hospitality, and preparedness. You are a bridge between your church leadership, members, and community resources.Your role includes:
- Assessment – Identifying safety strengths and weaknesses in your facility and ministry activities.
- Planning – Developing emergency response plans and safety procedures.
- Training – Equipping volunteers and leaders to respond effectively.
- Coordination – Leading the Safety Committee and connecting with your pastor, elders, and deacons.
- Communication – Keeping the congregation aware of safety measures without causing fear.
Safety isn’t about suspicion—it’s about stewardship. We prepare because God entrusted people to our care.— From “The Ministry of the Safety Officer,” Adventist Risk Management, Solutions Newsletter
From Orientation to Action
The first weeks in your role will shape the safety culture in your church. You don’t need to do everything at once, but you do need a clear path forward.That’s why we’ve created a First 90 Days Step-by-Step Onboarding Plan—a practical, best-practices guide to help you:
- Build your confidence quickly.
- Form your safety team.
- Prepare for upcoming initiatives like Safety Sabbath.
- Lay the foundation for a strong safety ministry.
