South African National Blood Service (SANBS)
SANBS relies on vital support roles like drivers, cleaners, and security personnel for smooth operations. This article covers job responsibilities, salaries, and how to apply for these essential positions.
Job Description & Details
SANBS is vital to South Africa’s healthcare system, providing life-saving blood to hospitals. Support roles like drivers, cleaners, and security staff are crucial in ensuring smooth operations for this essential service. While medical staff manage blood collection and testing, drivers, cleaners, and security personnel ensure safe transport, facility hygiene, and premises protection, all contributing to SANBS’s safety and operational efficiency.
Types of Support Jobs Available at SANBS
- Driver Roles: SANBS drivers are responsible for transporting blood donations, equipment, and personnel between donation sites, laboratories, and hospitals.
- Cleaner Roles: Cleaners at SANBS are tasked with maintaining cleanliness in medical facilities, ensuring all areas meet health and safety standards.
- Security Roles: Security personnel are responsible for protecting SANBS premises, staff, and equipment, ensuring a safe environment for operations.
Key Responsibilities of Drivers at SANBS
Transporting Blood Donations Safely
Drivers play a crucial role in the transport of blood donations to and from collection sites. They must adhere to strict schedules and ensure the blood is delivered in a timely and safe manner, without any damage or contamination.
Maintaining Vehicles and Adhering to Safety Protocols
SANBS drivers must maintain the vehicles in good working condition, regularly checking for any issues. They also follow strict safety and hygiene protocols to ensure that the blood and medical supplies they transport are secure and handled with care.
Responsibilities of Cleaners at SANBS
Maintaining Hygiene and Cleanliness in Facilities
Cleaners at SANBS are responsible for keeping donation centers, laboratories, and administrative offices clean and sanitized. This includes sweeping, mopping, disinfecting surfaces, and ensuring that bathrooms and other areas meet health and safety standards.
Following Sanitation Protocols for Medical Facilities
Given that SANBS operates in a medical environment, cleaners must follow specific protocols related to the disposal of biohazardous waste, handling of cleaning materials, and maintaining sterile conditions.
Duties of Security Personnel at SANBS
Protecting SANBS Premises and Assets
Security personnel are responsible for protecting SANBS facilities from theft, vandalism, and any unauthorized access. They monitor entry and exit points, conduct regular patrols, and respond to any security breaches.
Ensuring Safety of Staff and Visitors
Apart from safeguarding property, SANBS security staff ensure that both employees and visitors feel safe and secure. This can involve managing crowds during blood drives, handling emergencies, and enforcing safety protocols.
Skills Needed for Driver, Cleaner, and Security Jobs
Attention to Detail and Safety Awareness
In all three roles, attention to detail is crucial. Drivers must follow transport guidelines, cleaners must ensure sanitation, and security personnel must remain vigilant at all times.
Physical Fitness and Ability to Work Under Pressure
These jobs often involve physical tasks, such as lifting heavy equipment, driving long distances, or standing for extended periods. Physical fitness and the ability to work under pressure are essential.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Effective communication is important, especially for security personnel and drivers who regularly interact with staff and the public. Cleaners also need good communication skills to coordinate with other departments.
Educational and Experience Requirements
Minimum Qualifications for Drivers, Cleaners, and Security
- Drivers: A valid driver’s license (often Code 10 or higher) is required, along with a clean driving record. Experience in transportation or logistics is advantageous.
- Cleaners: Typically, no formal qualifications are required, though a high school diploma (matric) may be preferred. Experience in a cleaning or healthcare setting is beneficial.
- Security Personnel: A high school diploma (matric) and registration with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) are required. Previous experience in security is usually preferred.
Preferred Experience in Related Roles
Experience in logistics, cleaning, or security is highly regarded. Having a background in these fields can help candidates stand out during the application process and lead to higher-paying positions.
Average Salaries for Driver, Cleaner, and Security Jobs at SANBS
Salary Range for Drivers
Drivers at SANBS typically earn between ZAR 8,000 and ZAR 12,000 per month, depending on experience and job responsibilities.
Salary Range for Cleaners
Cleaners usually earn between ZAR 5,000 and ZAR 8,000 per month, with salary variations based on the specific work location and years of experience.
Salary Range for Security Personnel
Security staff at SANBS can expect to earn between ZAR 7,000 and ZAR 12,000 per month, depending on qualifications and experience.
Benefits of Working at SANBS
Health and Wellness Benefits
SANBS offers its employees health insurance and access to wellness programs. This ensures that all employees, including support staff, are cared for and healthy.
Pension and Retirement Plans
Employees are also eligible for pension and retirement plans, providing long-term financial security after their service at SANBS.
How to Apply for Support Roles at SANBS
Application Process on the SANBS Careers Portal
- Visit the SANBS Careers Website: Begin by visiting the official SANBS careers page to explore current job openings for drivers, cleaners, and security roles.
- Create an Account: You’ll need to create an account to apply. Upload your CV and any relevant documents (e.g., driver’s license, PSIRA certificate for security personnel).
- Submit Your Application: Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experience in your chosen role and follow the application instructions carefully.
Tips for Submitting a Strong Application
- Highlight Relevant Experience: Focus on your experience in transportation, cleaning, or security. For example, emphasize a clean driving record or previous work in healthcare cleaning.
- Ensure Qualifications Are Clear: Make sure to clearly state any certifications, such as a PSIRA registration for security roles or a Code 10 driver’s license for driver positions.
Final Thoughts & Mode of Application
Support roles like drivers, cleaners, and security personnel are vital to SANBS’s operations. These positions offer competitive salaries, benefits, and opportunities for growth in a rewarding, life-saving organization.