Company Description
Ransom Naturals Ltd (RNL) has over 175 years of experience in developing and manufacturing botanical extracts for the Pharmaceutical, Healthcare, Personal Care, and Food & Beverage industries. We specialise in the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), excipients, and botanical extracts, offering high-quality products in compliance with GMP standards at our state-of-the-art facility in Hitchin.
RNL combines traditional methods with innovative scientific techniques to create exceptional solutions that meet the changing needs of global markets. With expertise in product development, regulatory support, and customer-specific projects, RNL provides a full range of services from initial concept to commercial production. We take pride in our legacy and remain committed to advancing natural product innovation to serve diverse industries worldwide.
JOB FUNCTION/PURPOSE
This 12-week internship offers an excellent opportunity for a motivated individual to gain hands-on experience in chemical safety and regulatory compliance within a pharmaceutical manufacturing environment. The intern will work in Health & Safety support the review, development, and maintenance of Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) assessments across site operations. Due to the nature of the work this is based on site and is not a hybrid role.
This role is ideal for an undergraduate in chemistry, pharmacy, life sciences, environmental health, or a related discipline, and will provide valuable practical experience in industry-standard safety management systems.
KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
COSHH Assessment & Documentation
• Review and update existing COSHH assessments in line with current legislation, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and internal procedures.
• Conduct new COSHH assessments for chemical substances used in laboratory and manufacturing processes.
• Identify hazardous substances, assess exposure risks, and document appropriate control measures.
• Ensure assessments comply with the COSHH Regulations 2002 (as amended) and relevant industry guidance.
• Assist in the identification and evaluation of chemical hazards across site departments.
• Support the implementation of the hierarchy of controls, including substitution, engineering controls, and PPE recommendations.
• Contribute to site-wide chemical inventory management and SDS library maintenance.
Monitoring & Auditing
• Support occupational exposure monitoring activities, including the review of Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs) in accordance with EH40 guidelines.
• Participate in site safety inspections and assist in identifying areas for COSHH-related improvement.
• Help maintain accurate records in the HSE management system.
Stakeholder Engagement & Training
• Liaise with laboratory, production, and quality teams to gather information needed for COSHH assessments.
• Assist in the delivery of COSHH awareness communications or toolbox talks to relevant staff.
Skills Profile:
· Currently studying towards, or holding, a degree in Chemistry, Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Environmental Health, Biochemistry, or a related STEM discipline.
· Good working knowledge of, or strong academic interest in, COSHH regulations and chemical safety.
· Ability to read and interpret Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and technical documentation.
· Strong attention to detail and a methodical, organised approach to work.
· Good written and verbal communication skills.
· Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook).
SUMMARY OF THE INTERNSHIP
By the end of this internship, the successful candidate will have:
• Gained practical experience in conducting and documenting COSHH assessments within a regulated pharmaceutical environment.
• Developed an understanding of chemical risk management and control strategies in an industrial setting.
• Built familiarity with relevant UK health and safety legislation, including the COSHH Regulations 2002 and EH40 occupational exposure limits.
• Strengthened professional skills in stakeholder communication, technical writing, and document management.
• Enhanced their employability and CV with a recognised industry internship.
What we offer
• A structured 12-week programme with dedicated line manager support and regular review sessions.
• Exposure to a professional pharmaceutical manufacturing environment and real-world HSE challenges.
• Mentorship from experienced safety and compliance professionals.
• Competitive internship remuneration in line with National Minimum Wage requirements.
• A professional reference upon successful conclusion of the internship.