Guide To OHS Certifications Designations

T H I R D E D I T I O N
Guide to OH&S
Certifications & Designations
A Resource for Safety Practitioners, Employers, and those
considering a Career in Occupational Health & Safety
COHSP
RAC
CRST
This guide is produced by the

Canadian Society of Safety Engineering
CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

1 A Guide for Employers and OH&S Practitioners
This document has been prepared by Canadian Society of Safety Engineering (CSSE)
in the pursuit of CSSE’s mission, vision and goals.
All rights reserved. Permission to photocopy or download for individual use is
granted. Further reproduction in any manner, including posting to a website, is
prohibited without prior written permission of the publisher. Permission may be
obtained by contacting the CSSE at [email protected].
© Canadian Society of Safety Engineering

468 Queen Street East, Suite LL-02
Toronto, Ontario M5A 1T7
Tel.: 416-646-1600
www.csse.org
Third Edition
September 2018

PURPOSE OF THE GUIDE
The Guide is intended to serve as a resource to employers when hiring a health and safety
practitioner. It also provides guidance to future OH&S practitioners on the type of education,
experience, and other qualifications being sought by employers. Information on both Canadian and
International safety certifications and designations is provided, along with suggested competencies
and qualifications for OH&S positions from entry to executive level. An interview guide is included
to provide employers with suggested questions when interviewing candidates.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction 5
Glossary of Terms 6
Comparision of OHS Professional and OHS Practitioner roles 7
Occupational Health and Safety Certifications and Designations 8
Accreditation 9
Safety Certifications versus Safety Designations 10
Established Safety Certifications and Designations 11
Canadian Safety Certifications 12
Canadian Safety Designations 21
International Safety Certifications 26
OH&S Practitioner Profiles 41
Entry Level 42
Intermediate Level 43
Managerial Level 44
Director/Executive Level 45
Frequently Asked Questions 46
Interview Guide 47
Acknowledgements & References 59
About the CSSE 60

INTRODUCTION
The occupational health and safety practitioner landscape is changing. Globally, it is recognized that
there’s a need to establish minimum education, experiential, and practice standards for those working in
the OH&S field. Licensure and regulation of the safety profession is now an active topic of conversation
amongst OH&S practitioners, their associations, and professional certification bodies alike. The
International Network of Safety and Health Practitioner Organizations (INSHPO) has published the
Occupational Health and Safety Professional Capability Framework - A Global Framework for Practice
(Framework). The Framework serves as a foundation for developing international standards of practice for
those working in OH&S, defining the roles, functions and competencies for OH&S personnel working
at both practitioner and professional levels. In differentiating between these respective levels, guidance on
the requisite knowledge and skills for each is also provided.
The development of the INSHPO Occupational Health and Safety Professional Capability Framework
represents a significant step in the evolution of OH&S practice. The guidance it provides is shaping
OH&S education programs and professional certification schemes alike and in doing so, strengthens
the safety profession. In recognition of the need for well-qualified OH&S professionals, the Board of
Canadian Registered Safety Professionals has raised the minimum formal education level required to be
eligible to write the Canadian Registered Safety Professional exam.
Safety certifications and designations play an important role in demonstrating capable practice in OH&S.
As the landscape continues to evolve, safety certifications in particular can be expected to play an integral
role should licensure and regulation of the safety profession become reality.
It is within this context that the CSSE is pleased to present the third edition of the Guide to OH&S
Certifications & Designations. The third edition bears a new title, one that better reflects the primary
purpose of this document. It provides information on the established safety certifications and designations
held by Canadian OH&S practitioners offered by governing bodies located both within and outside of
Canada. Position profiles from entry level to senior level are included to assist employers looking to hire
an OH&S practitioner, and current and future OH&S practitioners when planning their careers. As a
companion to this Guide, the CSSE is also developing a Guide to OH&S education programs, which is
expected to be available in the late fall of 2018.
The landscape for working as an OH&S practitioner is changing. The CSSE encourages its members to
actively participate in the discussions that will help shape the future of the profession.
Sincerely,
Bruce Jackson
Project Lead, CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations CSSE
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
This glossary of terms is provided to clarify how various terms commonly used in OH&S are defined when they appear in this Guide.
Capability Risk
The applied theoretical knowledge that underpins practice The chance or probability that a person will be harmed or
in occupations and professions and also the industry-specific experience an adverse health effect if exposed to a hazard. It
knowledge and skills that transcend particular workplaces and may also apply to situations with property or equipment loss.
the tacit knowledge of the workplace. (International Network of (Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety; OSH
Safety and Health Practitioner Organizations; The Occupational answers)
Health and Safety Professional Capability Framework)
Risk Assessment
Competence The process of identifying hazards, analyzing or evaluating the
The ability to transfer and apply knowledge and skills to risk associated with that hazard, and determining the most
new situations and environments, consistently applying appropriate ways to eliminate or control the hazard. (Canadian
knowledge and skills to a standard of performance required in Centre for Occupational Health and Safety; OSH answers)
the workplace; (International Network of Safety and Health
Practitioner Organizations; The Occupational Health and Safety Risk Management
Professional Capability Framework) Coordinated activities to determine, direct and control
an organization’s response to the sum of potential hazards
Hazard previously identified and to determine appropriate ways to
Source with a potential to cause injury and ill health. (ISO eliminate or control those hazards. (CSSE Applied Risk
45001:2018 International Standard on Occupational health and Communication Course)
safety management systems — Requirements with guidance for use)
Root Cause Analysis
Occupational Safety Root cause analysis is a collective term that describes a wide
Protection from danger and hazards arising out of, linked with range of approaches, tools, and techniques used to uncover
or occurring in the course of employment. (Canadian Centre for causes of problems such as workplace incidents. (American
Occupational Health and Safety web-site definition section) Society for Quality)
OH&S Practitioner Safety Certification
OHS Practitioners are implementers of strategy and actions usually Qualifications offered by OH&S practitioner organizations (also
designed by an OHS Professional. Typically, the OHS Practitioner referred to as governing bodies) that require their certificants to
provides broad-based advice, support and monitoring of compliance meet established minimum eligibility requirements in order to
to organizations regarding hazard and risk assessment and controls qualify to earn the certification. These eligibility requirements
and the known procedures for their management. They have typically include formal post-secondary education, health
generic knowledge appropriate to the management of OHS hazards and safety related work experience, and completion of various
and their controls, supported by deeper knowledge of their specific professional development activities. With few exceptions,
industry, including its characteristic hazards and standard risk applicants must pass a formal competency assessment
controls, risk prevention and mitigation processes. They support and once certification is achieved, adhere to a mandatory
a safe working environment by maintaining OHS administrative certification maintenance program and code of conduct. Safety
processes, conducting training and using a range of state-of-the- certification(s) are most often independently accredited. In some
art tools, processes and common practice solutions to OHS risks. cases, the governing body may instead adopt and adhere to very
They most often gain their OHS education through the vocational similar requirements as those set out by the accreditation body
or technical sector. (International Network of Safety and Health or applicable standard. (Canadian Society of Safety Engineering,
Practitioner Organizations; Summarized from The Occupational 2018)
Health and Safety Professional Capability Framework)
Safety Designation
OH&S Professional Qualifications offered by a provincial or national industry or
OHS Professionals are designers of strategy relating to the safety association that can typically be earned by the completion
organization and management of OHS within the wider context of one of more short duration courses. These qualifications
of business processes and external regulatory, market and societal rarely require applicants to possess any formal post-secondary
influences. They provide broad-based advice, support and analysis education and may not require them to possess a minimum
to organizations regarding risk assessment and controls and their amount of experience working in OH&S. Designation holders
management processes. They have generic knowledge appropriate are not often required to adhere to a mandatory certification
to risk in all activities and employment, supported by deeper maintenance point program. There may not be a code of
knowledge of their specific industry, including its characteristic conduct associated with the designation, and the designations
hazards and risk prevention, management and mitigation processes. are rarely independently accredited. (Canadian Society of Safety
They possess a broad understanding of a core range of hazards Engineering, 2018)
and hazard controls, and provide broad-based advice, support and
analysis to organizations regarding risk assessment and controls
and their management processes. They most often gain their
OHS education through a university. (International Network of
Safety and Health Practitioner Organizations; Summarized from
The Occupational Health and Safety Professional Capability
Framework)

Table 1: Comparision of OHS Professional and OHS Practitioner roles
OHS Practitioner OHS Professional
Implementer/executor of strategy and Designer of OHS management strategy
the framework for OHS critical control and framework for OHS critical risk control
management management
Communicates predominantly with middle Influences senior managers, building

management, supervisor and shop floor, relationships as a basis for influence,
building relationships as a basis for influence, mentoring and providing integrated
mentoring and providing technical advice technical and strategic advice
Oversees and drives monitoring and Develops monitoring systems. Involved

compliance, acting as local change agent in organizational review and change
when required management
Supports safe working environment by Considers wider context of business

maintaining administrative processesm processes and external regulatory,
conducting training and using state-of-the- market and societal influences
art tools, processes and standard practice
solutions
Advice/action based on technical Advice/action based on conceptual and

knowledge, experience and input by OHS technical knowledge mediated by analysis
Professionals and other technical advisors of evidence, experience and critical thought
Focuses on organization’s primary processes Able to extend his or her understanding and
operating in known contexts within control to novel, unknown and complex risks
established parameters and their control
Accesses, evaluates and uses a broad Works autonomously within own initiative
range of workplace and industry sources of and responsibility but values professional
information collaboration
May work with SME’s in well-known hazards Usually works in large, complex and/or
or under OHS Professional supervision in high-hazard organizations or as a consultant
larger organizations to medium-sized organizations
May work with SME’s in well-known hazards Usually works in large, complex and/or
or under OHS Professional supervision in high-hazard organizations or as a consultant
larger organizations to medium-sized organizations
Usually educated through vocational or Usually educated through university or

technical streams higher education sector
(taken from INSHPO's Occupational Health and Safety Professional Capability Framework)

Occupational Health and Safety
Certifications and Designations
“Certified” and “certification” are terms that are associated with many occupations. There are no universally
accepted definitions for these terms when applying them in an occupational context. However, authoritative
publications such as the ISO/IEC 17024 standard Conformity assessment — General requirements for
bodies operating certification of persons provides that a person is “certified” if they have met the certification
requirements established by the certification body. Given how prevalent the use of this term is in general,
it’s not surprising that there’s significant variability in how it is applied to qualifications for those working
as an OH&S practitioner.
“Designation” is another term that is used to describe qualifications in OH&S. In Canada and other
countries, the terms “certification” and “ designation” are often used interchangeably when referring to
certain types of qualifications held by people working in OH&S. There are numerous certifications and
designations offered by a wide range of governing organizations located both in Canada and around the
world that are available for OH&S practitioners to earn. In general, qualifications of this type serve to
confirm that based upon a formal assessment process, the individual has demonstrated they have met an
established standard for the knowledge, skills, and abilities for which they have been evaluated. Some
of these qualifications are intended for “general practitioners”, while others are designed for those who
specialize in a particular industry, like construction, or specific area of practice such as auditing, ergonomics,
occupational hygiene, or process safety.
The organizations that offer safety certifications and designations are referred to as “governing bodies” for
the purposes of this Guide, and often differ both in nature and in the types of qualifications they offer.
For example, the governing body and their qualifications may focus on one specific industry or be more
applicable to a variety of industry sectors, and be provincial, national, or international in scope. Some
may provide the training courses necessary to earn their qualifications, while others may accept only certain
education or training programs, and in select cases, accept only the programs they accredit themselves.
Others yet may focus their activities solely on the governance of the safety certifications and designations they
have developed and offer to the OH&S practitioner community. These governing organizations have often
sought accreditation from recognized independent accreditation bodies for some or all of the qualifications
they offer and have a global reach.
Given the range of certifications and designations available, the listings in this Guide have been restricted
to those that most commonly held by Canadian OH&S practitioners.

ACCREDITATION
The Institute for Credentialing Excellence (ICE), a U.S. based organization that accredits personnel certifications
defines accreditation as follows:
“The process by which a credentialing or educational program is evaluated against defined standards and is awarded
recognition if it is in compliance with those standards”.
Credentialing is an umbrella term used by ICE to refer to professional certification, certificate programs,
accreditation, licensure and regulation.
The National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), which is the accreditation body within ICE, and
the Council of Engineering and Scientific Specialty Boards (CESB) are two organizations that accredit OH&S
personal certification products; both are based in the United States.
Accreditation organizations either develop their own standards for accreditation or adopt those established
by organizations such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). For example, a variety of
organizations offering OH&S certifications have met the requirements of the accreditation standard ISO/IEC
17024 Conformity assessment – General requirements for bodies operating certification of persons.
It’s important to understand that accreditation organizations do not typically evaluate or approve the actual subject
matter content associated with a particular certification product. What they do is ensure that the accredited
organization meets certain requirements – that the necessary framework, policies, and procedures are in place
and that the certification products they offer include certain mandatory requirements. Those requirements often
include a formal competency assessment, certification maintenance program, and criteria for suspending or
withdrawing certification.
Accreditation is intended to provide the consumer of certification products confidence that the governing
organization and/or the individual certification product they offer meets an established, recognized, and respected
standard. Not every organization has undertaken the process to become accredited or have the OH&S certification
products they offer independently accredited. Some organizations may instead choose to adopt the requirements
mandated by either a personal accreditation organization or prescribed in an applicable standard, such as ISO/
IEC 17024 standard referred to above. In adhering to substantially the same requirements, a high standard of
excellence is maintained.
In a similar fashion to the above, accreditation organizations themselves
may be accredited to an established standard, such as the ISO/IEC
17011 Conformity assessment – Requirements for accreditation bodies
accrediting conformity assessment bodies. In some cases they may
develop their own accreditation standard. For example, the American
National Standards Institute is accredited to the ISO/IEC 17011
standard, whereas the National Commission for Certifying Agencies
(NCCA) has developed their own accreditation standard. Most major
accreditation organizations such as the Standards Council of Canada
are members of the International Accreditation Forum (IAF), which is
the umbrella organization for such organizations. A peer review process
managed by the IAF ensures that an appropriate level of oversight of
these accreditation bodies is maintained. Ensuring that a rigorous
process has been followed when accrediting a governing organization
or the individual safety certifications they offer enhances both the
credibility and value that consumers of certification products can place
in the safety certifications they hold or wish to pursue.
Every governing organization and/or safety certification listed in the
Canadian and international certification sections of this Guide has either
been independently accredited, or the governing organization that offers
the certification has adopted and adheres to very similar requirements.

SAFETY CERTIFICATIONS VERSUS SAFETY DESIGNATIONS
It’s important to recognize that there are significant differences in the various personal safety
certification products that are available. These products differ in a variety of areas, including but not
limited to the following:
• Prerequisite formal education qualifications required
• Minimum amount of required work experience in health and safety
• Existence of a mandatory continuous professional development (CPD) program
• Formal capability assessment mechanisms
• Adherence to an established code of conduct and ethical practice policy
In Canada, a number of these qualifications are offered either by or in association with various
provincial and national industry associations and industry-supported health and safety associations. As
an example, for many years a variety of well-established foundational and advanced-level construction
industry safety practitioner qualifications have been offered across the country by construction industry
safety associations and other organizations. The training programs associated with these qualifications
are typically several weeks in duration and equip the practitioner with basic knowledge and practical
skills that can be readily applied on the job site.
Although valuable, these programs generally do not meet the same standards required by organizations
that offer accredited safety certifications. Examples include the lack of established post-secondary
educational prerequisite(s), a mandatory continuous professional development program, or an
independently administered competency assessment that is required to earn the qualification. Due to
these substantive differences, and for the purposes of this Guide only, two different terms will be used
to appropriately differentiate between these two broad categories of qualifications. The term “safety
designation” will be used to describe health and safety qualifications of relatively short duration, that
have either not been independently accredited by a recognized accreditation body, or the governing
body that offers the qualification has not adopted and implemented very similar requirements. The
term “safety certification” will be used to describe health and safety qualifications that are either
independently accredited by a recognized accreditation body or the associated governing body adheres
to requirements that are very similar to those that apply to qualifications that have been accredited.
It’s important to note that virtually every governing body that offers safety certifications has a
mandatory disciplinary policy that establishes standards for professional conduct and ethical practice
to which certificants must adhere. Certificants who violate this policy may be subject to disciplinary
action, up to and including the loss of their certification.
SAFETY CERTIFICATIONS SAFETY DESIGNATIONS

are required PREREQUISITE FORMAL ACADEMIC EDUCATION rarely required
QUALIFICATIONS
work experience is required work experience may be

OH&S RELATED WORK EXPERIENCE required
mandatory programs are mandatory programs rarely

required CONTINUOUS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT required
capability assesement capability assesement mechanism

mechanism is mandatory FORMAL CAPABILITY ASSESSMENT may not be mandatory
declaration of adherence
CODE OF CONDUCT & ETHICAL PRACTICES policy may not exist
to a policy is required

ESTABLISHED SAFETY CERTIFICATIONS AND DESIGNATIONS
The following pages provide information on a broad range of safety certifications and designations
offered by governing organizations located in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom,
and Australia. They are generally well-established in both industry and the OH&S practitioner
community, both in Canada and internationally.
NOTE: Please note that the information provided has been excerpted from the web-sites of the respective
governing organizations, was current as of the date of publication of this Guide, and is subject to change. For
full details and the most current information about various safety certifications and designations, visit the
relevant web-sites.

NOTE: For the purposes of this guide, Canadian Safety Certifications

the CSSE is using the terms SAFETY CCPE Canadian Certified Professional Ergonomist
CERTIFICATIONS and SAFETY
CHSC ®
Certified Health & Safety Consultant
DESIGNATIONS as defined on
page 7 of this guide. CHSMSA Certified Health and Safety Management System Auditor
COHN [C] Certified Occupational Health Nurse (Canada)
CRSP® Canadian Registered Safety Professional
The terms Safety Certifications and CRST Canadian Registered Safety Technician
Safety Designations are often used
interchangeably when referring to an ROH Registered Occupational Hygienist
individual’s qualifications in health ROHT Registered Occupational Hygiene Technologist
and safety. Governing organizations
may use these terms in a manner that
differs from how they are defined in this
guide. The safety certifications and safety
designations included in this guide have Canadian Safety Designations
been categorized based upon the definitions
of safety certification and safety designation CSC Construction Safety Coordinator
as outlined on page 7 and not how they CSO (P), Construction Safety Officer
are referred to by the associated governing CSO & RCSO
organization. GSC-CSC Gold Seal Certified Construction Safety Coordinator
NCSO National Construction Safety Officer
International Safety Certifications

CET® Certified Environmental, Safety and Health Trainer
CHMM ®
Certified Hazardous Materials Manager
CHMP Certified Hazardous Materials Practitioner
CIH Certified Industrial Hygienist
CMIOSH Chartered Safety and Health Practitioner
CPEA Certified Professional Environmental Auditor (H&S Specialty)
CPSA Certified Process Safety Auditor
CSHM Certified Safety & Health Manager
CSMP Certified Safety Management Practitioner
CSP
®
Certified Safety Professional
ChOHSP Certified Chartered Generalist OHS Professional
COHSPRAC Certified Generalist OHS Practitioner
COHSPROF Certified Generalist OHS Professional

Canadian Safety Certifications
ACRONYM CERTIFICATION PAGE
CCPE Canadian Certified Professional Ergonomist 13

Canadian College for the Certification of Professional Ergonomists
CHSC® Certified Health & Safety Consultant 14
CHSMSA Certified Health and Safety Management System Auditor 15
Auditing Association of Canada
COHN [C] Certified Occupational Health Nurse (Canada) 16
Canadian Occupational Health Nurses Association –Association
Canadienne Des Infirmières Et Infirmiers En Santé Du Travail
(COHNA-ACIIST)
CRSP® Canadian Registered Safety Professional 17
Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals
CRST Canadian Registered Safety Technician 18
Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals
ROH Registered Occupational Hygienist 19
Canadian Registration Board of Occupational Hygienists
ROHT Registered Occupational Hygiene Technologist 20
Canadian Registration Board of Occupational Hygienists

Canadian Safety CERTIFICATIONS
Certification
& Governing CCPE Canadian Certified Professional Ergonomist
Organization Canadian College for the Certification of Professional Ergonomists • www.cccpe.ca
Qualification The criteria for certification are geared to individuals engaged in the practice of ergonomics as their
primary work. The goals of the certification process are to ensure that the applicants have:
Description
• the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the discipline
• adequate familiarity, competence and skill with the tools and methods used in the field
• experience applying and recognizing the breadth of the field and its interdisciplinary nature
The CCPE designation is the only certification process administered in Canada that requires certificants
to meet competencies in both education and practice across the full scope of ergonomics through peer
review by the CCCPE Board. That that attain the CCPE designation must comply with the CCCPE
code of ethics
Eligibility Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree or higher covering the following areas of knowledge:
Requirements • ergonomics
• ergonomic approaches to people at work
• application areas for ergonomics
• human characteristics and human at work
• quantitative and qualitative design and analysis
Approximately 700 lecture and laboratory hours are required in addition to 8 weeks of field work.
Professional experience in the following areas:
• preliminary project definition (e.g. designing and conducting an ergonomics/human factors study
of investigation)
• systematic analysis (e.g. conducting a systematic analysis of work demands, products or services)
• participation in the design process (e.g. determining design specifications based on human factors/
ergonomics analysis, working in a design team
• Four years of work experience (with one of those years being mentored), or five years of work
experience or more application areas
Assessment No examination required. Candidates are assessed based upon their documented work experience
Mechanism
Certification The continuance of certification (COC) is a means of ensuring that CCPE certificants remain current
Maintenance in their professional practice and that they are continuing professional development. It is a necessary
component for CCPE to receive accreditation with the International Ergonomics Association. CCPEs
Program must accumulate 100 points over a five-year period and must submit a worksheet at the end of each five-
year period
Accreditation International Ergonomics Association

Certification
& Governing CHSC® Certified Health & Safety Consultant
Organization Canadian Society of Safety Engineering • www.csse.org
Qualification The CHSC certification signals to employers, colleagues, clients, and to the public that the OH&S
Professional has met prescribed academic and experience standards and has received specialized training
Description beyond technical knowledge and skills in the field. The CHSC holder has completed mandatory training
in legal obligations and liabilities, applied risk communications, and consulting skills. The CHSC holder
has also successfully completed training in three additional courses from a list of approved electives.
CHSC holders abide by the CHSC Code of Conduct and are qualified to use the CHSC designation.
Eligibility Currently be an internal or external health and safety advisor or consultant and have a minimum of 5 years
(60 months) cumulative work experience within the previous 7 years with a minimum of 51% H&S duties.
Requirements
One-year college or university certificate or diploma in OH&S or environment (min. 300 instructional
hours), or a two-year college or university non-OH&S or environment certificate or diploma program
(min. 600 instructional hours).
Assessment Successful completion of six courses including mandatory examinations with a minimum passing
grade of 75%.
Mechanism
Courses comprise of three mandatory courses in Consulting Skills for the OH&S Professional, Applied
Risk Communication, and Obligations and Liabilities of the OH&S Professional. Additionally,
successful completion of three elective courses from the suite of CHSC courses is required.
Certification The CHSC certification recognizes and promotes excellence in professional consulting and leadership in
the area of occupational health and safety.
Maintenance
Program To keep their certification in good standing CHSC must:
• abide by a CHSC Code of Conduct
• engage in ongoing continuing education, professional practice, and leadership and volunteer activities;
• maintain current membership in CSSE
• and maintain valid professional liability insurance coverage, or have company indemnification
Accreditation The governing body has adopted and adheres to very similar requirements as those mandated by either a
personal accreditation body or prescribed in an applicable standard, and in doing so ensures that a high
standard of excellence is maintained.

Certification
& Governing CHSMSA Certified Health and Safety Management System Auditor
Organization Auditing Association of Canada • www.auditingcanada.com
Qualification The Auditing Association of Canada (AAC) Certified Health and Safety Management System Auditor
(CHSMSA) designation was developed to provide a credible Canadian benchmark for health and safety
Description management systems auditing. The criteria were developed from the same requirements as other lead
auditor programs and are based on ISO 19011.
The Body of Skills And Knowledge (BOSK) for CHSMSAs summarizes the skills and knowledge they are
expected to possess, and consists of four broad components:
• Health and safety auditing
• Health and safety management systems, standards and practices
• Health and safety hazards, risks and technology
• Health and safety legislation, regulations and other requirements
AAC requires all CHSMSAs to demonstrate an appropriate level of knowledge of and skills in the
topics in each of these fields.
Eligibility Varies with educational background:

Requirements • Completion of secondary school education only requires minimum of five years of appropriate OHS
work experience
• Non-relevant college diploma or Bachelor’s degree requires minimum of four years of experience
• Relevant Bachelor’s degree of non-relevant Master’s degree requires minimum of three years of
experience
• Relevant Master’s degree (or higher) requires minimum of two years of experience
• Relevant degree means Bachelor’s or higher level degree in engineering, environment, science, health
and safety technology, law, business administration, industrial hygiene, or accounting
Completion of 20 or more hours of auditor training that contributes to the development of knowledge and
skill in auditing principles, procedures, and techniques as specified in ISO 19011
Completion of 20 hours of training in:
• Health and safety management standards and standards against which audits may be performed,
including OHSAS 18001, CSA Z1000, or ANSI ZIO
• Health and safety methods and technology
• Relevant requirements of health and safety laws, regulations and related documents
• Technical and health and safety aspects of various types of business activities and facility operations
Completion of a minimum of seven audits comprising at least 35 days of H&S management system auditing
Assessment Successfully pass an examination to satisfy AAC’s Qualification Criteria for Certified Health and Safety
Management System Auditors
Mechanism
Written examination based in part on AAC’s BOSK for CHSMSA’s
Certification To maintain certification, CHSMSAs shall be recertified every five years. Recertification is achieved by
Maintenance meeting the requirements for professional practice and continued professional development as well as
satisfying other recertification requirements prescribed by AAC. The recertification process ensures the
Program ongoing maintenance and continuous development of competency, skills and knowledge
CHSMSA certificants must maintain high standards of conduct and abide by the AAC’s Code of Ethics
The Governing Body has adopted and adheres to very similar requirements as those mandated by either a
Accreditation personal accreditation body or prescribed in an applicable standard, and in doing do ensures that a high

Certification
& Governing COHN [C] Certified Occupational Health Nurse (Canada)
Organization Canadian Nurses Association • www.cna-aiic.ca
Qualification Nurses with the COHN (C) Certification adhere to competencies in:
Description • Occupational health nursing practice
• Identification, evaluation, and control of workplace hazards
• Health surveillance
• Assessment, care, and case management of illnesses and injuries
• Heath, safety, and wellness promotion
• Heath, safety, and wellness management
The Canadian Occupational Health Nurses Association-Association Canadienne Des Infirmières
Et Infirmiers En Santé Du Travail (COHNA-ACIIST) supports occupational health nurses and is
committed to promoting excellence in the practice of occupational health nursing and advancing health,
wellness and safety practices in the workplace.
Eligibility Certification offered in 21 specialty areas of nursing, one of which is Occupational Health Nursing
Requirements Registered Nurse (RN with Bachelor’s degree or completion of a RN diploma program
Option 1 – RN with current licence/registration in Canada and 3,900 hours as an RN in
occupational health nursing (over five years) and verification of practice
Option 2 – Successful completion of post-basis nursing course/program in occupational health
nursing of at least 300 hours or Master’s, PhD in nursing plus 2,925 hours as RN in speciality area
with verification of practice.
Assessment Requirement to pass a 3.5 hour exam to determine mastery of the six categories of nursing competencies
in occupational health nursing.
Mechanism
Certification The COHN (C) is valid for five years at which time the holder needs to re-apply for the certification.
Maintenance There are two options:
Program Continuous learning – Submit a record of continuous learning activities in the nursing speciality/area
of nursing practice accumulated during the five-year certification term (minimum of 100 hours)
Exam – Write the certification exam
To be eligible for certification renewal, the certificate holder must:
• Hold a current registration/license as an RN in Canada
• Have accumulated a minimum of 100 hours of continuous learning activities related to the nursing
speciality/area of nursing practice during the five-year term, or have successfully written the current
exam in the specialty/area of nursing practice.
Accreditation The governing body has adopted and adheres to very similar requirements as those mandated by either
a personal accreditation body or prescribed in a applicable standard, and in doing so ensures that a high

Board o
Canadian Safety CERTIFICATIONS Safety
Conseil
En Sécu
Certification CRSP® Canadian Registered Safety Professional/

& Governing
Organization PSAC® Professionnel en sécurité agréé du Canada
Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals • www.bcrsp.org
Qualification The Canadian Registered Safety Professional® (CRSP)® (Professionnel en sécurité agréé du Canada
(PSAC)®) certification is designed for OH&S professionals in Canada.
Description
A CRSP®:
• Has met the academic, experience and examination requirements of a national registration authority
• Has in-depth knowledge of health and safety principles and practices and uses this knowledge to
develop systems in the workplace in order to achieve optimum control over hazards detrimental to
people, equipment, material and the environment Is committed to the principles of loss control,
accident prevention and environmental protection.
• Is committed to managing organizational health and safety issues and concerns.
• Has knowledge and skills that are continually upgraded through a continuous professional
development (CPD) program to ensure they are qualified and up-to-date in managing health and
safety issues
• Adheres to the Rules of Professional Conduct (Code of Ethics).
Eligibility • A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree (4-year) in any field OR a 2-year diploma (or certificate)
(minimum of 900 hours or 60 credits) in occupational health and safety or a closely related field
Requirements from a recognized academic institution.
• At least four (4) years of experience where occupational health and safety is at least 50%,
preventative, professional level with breadth and depth of health and safety duties.
Assessment Successful completion of an examination consisting of 190 - 210 multiple choice questions (based on the
CRSP® Examination Blueprint).
Mechanism
Candidates have 3.5 hours to complete the examination.
Certification All practising CRSP®s/PSAC®s are required to participate in the BCRSP’s Continuous Professional
Development (CPD) Program. The CPD program requires CRSP®s/PSAC®s to maintain a record of
Maintenance OH&S professional development activities and submit a record of those activities to the Board in order
Program to maintain certification.
Accreditation The CRSP ®/PSAC ® certification is accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) to the
ISO/IEC 17024 Standard for Conformity assessment – General requirements for bodies operating
certification of persons.

Board o
Canadian Safety CERTIFICATIONS Safety
Conseil
En Sécu
Certification CRST Canadian Registered Safety Technician

& Governing
Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals • www.bcrsp.org
Organization
Qualification The Canadian Registered Safety Technician (CRST) certification is designed for entry level safety
practitioners.
Description
A CRST:
• Has met the academic, experience and examination requirements of a national registration authority
• Supports a safe working environment by implementing OHS administrative processes, conducting
OHS training and using a range of OHS tools, processes and standard practice solutions to OHS
risks and their management, particularly aimed at routine and well-known processes and work.
• Contributes to and supports monitoring and compliance in relation to occupational health and safety
risk controls.
• Has knowledge and skills that are continually upgraded through a continuous professional
development (CPD) program to ensure they are qualified and up-to-date in supporting the health
and safety function.
• Adheres to the Rules of Professional Conduct (Code of Ethics).
Eligibility • Has successfully completed a minimum of a one-year OHS certificate program from a recognized
educational institution OR a two-year certificate or diploma in any field from a recognized educational
Requirements institution (Community College or University) OR is qualified to journeyman status in a trade.
• At least one (1) year of experience where occupational health and safety experience where the OHS
duties are at least 35% of responsibilities.
• Applicants who qualify from an approved two-year (900 hour) OHS diploma (or certificate) program
from a recognized educational institution are eligible to apply upon graduation.
Assessment Successful completion of an examination consisting of 190 - 210 multiple choice questions (based on the
CRST Examination Blueprint).
Mechanism
Certification All practising CRSTs are required to participate in the BCRSP’s Continuous Professional Development
(CPD) Program. The CPD program requires CRSTs to maintain a record of OH&S professional
Maintenance development activities and submit a record of those activities to the Board in order to maintain
Program certification.
The governing body has adopted and adheres to very similar requirements as those mandated by either a
Accreditation personal accreditation body or prescribed in an applicable standard, and in doing so ensures that a high

Certification
& Governing ROH Registered Occupational Hygienist
Organization Canadian Registration Board of Occupational Hygienists • www.crboh.ca
Qualification The Canadian Registration Board of Occupational Hygienists (CRBOH) is a national, not-for-profit
organization that sets standards of professional competence for occupational hygienists and occupational
Description hygiene technologists in Canada and around the world.
Registration with the CRBOH confers the right to use the title Registered Occupational Hygienist
(ROH) or Registered Occupational Hygiene Technologist (ROHT), and indicates the attainment and
maintenance of a high standard of professionalism.
Members of the CRBOH share a passion for the profession of occupational hygiene. They promote the
profession through involvement in academic, community and professional activities, and endeavour to
enhance recognition of the profession by the public, organized labour and general industry.
Eligibility Eligibility for the examination based on having one of four combinations of academic qualifications and
professional experience.
Requirements
Minimum of an acceptable Bachelor’s degree in science or engineering required.
Two to five years of professional experience required, depending on academic qualification held.
Fast Track option available for candidates who are graduates of selected post-secondary programs in
occupational health or hygiene.
Assessment The written part consists of a half day of multiple choice questions and a half day of essay style questions.
Equal weight is given to the two parts of the examination. The multiple choice part of the examination
Mechanism consists of 130 questions, all of equal value. There is only one correct answer for each question. Marks
are given only for correct answers. In the essay part of the examination, candidates are presented with five
questions of equal value. All five questions must be answered. Point form answers are not acceptable.
Candidates must first successfully complete the written exam before being invited for the oral exam, the
second part of the examination. For this oral part, a committee made of three examiners will question
the candidate for about an hour. The oral exam is an opportunity to evaluate several aspects about the
candidate. It allows the candidate to demonstrate the range of their technical knowledge, their logical
ability to resolve problems using scientific knowledge, to assess their professional judgement, ethics and
ability to communicate.
Certification As part of its ongoing commitment to professional excellence, the CRBOH requires ROHs to participate
in the mandatory Registration Maintenance program.
Maintenance
Program ROH Certificants must adhere at all times to the CRBOH’s Code of Ethics.
Accreditation The governing body has adopted and adheres to very similar requirements as those mandated by either
a personal accreditation body or prescribed in a applicable standard, and in doing so ensures that a high

Certification
& Governing ROHT Registered Occupational Hygiene Technologist
Organization Canadian Registration Board of Occupational Hygienists • www.crboh.ca
Qualification The Canadian Registration Board of Occupational Hygienists (CRBOH) is a national, not-for-profit
Description organization that sets standards of professional competence for occupational hygienists and occupational
hygiene technologists in Canada and around the world.
Registration with the CRBOH confers the right to use the title Registered Occupational Hygienist
(ROH) or Registered Occupational Hygiene Technologist (ROHT) and indicates the attainment and
maintenance of a high standard of professionalism.
Members of the CRBOH share a passion for the profession of occupational hygiene. They promote the
profession through involvement in academic, community and professional activities, and endeavour to
enhance recognition of the profession by the public, organized labour and general industry.
Eligibility Registration is by examination only, and the eligibility requirements for admission to the examination
are as follows:
Requirements
• Five years of experience in occupational hygiene or related experience subsequent to receipt of a high
school diploma.
• Completion of a community college occupational hygiene technology program may be accepted as
equivalent to up to two years of experience
• Completion of a community college program in a related science or engineering field may be accepted
as equivalent to up to one year of experience
• Completion of an equivalent of two years of a university undergraduate program of related sciences, or
engineering courses may be accepted as equivalent to up to one year of experience
• More than 50% of each year for which credit is claimed must have been spent in occupational hygiene
or closely related activities. Tie applicant must be engaged in occupational hygiene activities at the time
the application is submitted. Two references from ROHs or ROHTs or other suitably accredited persons
such as CIH, CRSP or CSP must be provided.
Assessment Applicants must pass an exam consisting of multiple choice, short answer and essay questions. The
multiple-choice section consists of approximately 150 questions, all of equal value.
Mechanism
Candidates for the ROHT examination are expected to be familiar with a broad range of occupational
hygiene topics, including:
• Basic background science (chemistry, physics, mathematics, anatomy, and physiology), regulations,
legislation and other standard-setting bodies (Canada Labour Code, provincial health and safety
legislation, Canadian Standards Association)
• Recognition of hazards and their effects (chemical, physical, biological and ergonomic stressors)
• Evaluation (field sampling instruments and strategies, exposure limits, hygiene calculations)
• Control (engineering, administrative, personal protective equipment)
• Miscellaneous (training, planning/policy, labour relations)
As part of its ongoing commitment to professional excellence, the Canadian Registration Board of
Certification Occupational Hygienists (CRBOH) recognizes the need for Registered Occupational Hygienist
Maintenance Technologists (ROHs) to develop and enhance their professional knowledge and skills and to keep
Program up with advances in the field over the time period that they have their ROHT designation. ROHT
registrants are required to re-register every five years in order to maintain their ROHT registration.
In order to be successful in the re-registration process, each ROHT must obtain a minimum of 40 RM
points in every five-year cycle, with a maximum of 20 points awarded for any one year.
The governing body has adopted and adheres to very similar requirements as those mandated by either
Accreditation a personal accreditation body or prescribed in a applicable standard, and in doing so ensures that a high

Canadian Safety Designations
ACRONYM DESIGNATION PAGE
CSC Construction Safety Coordinator 22

New Brunswick Construction Safety Association
CSO (Provisional) Provisional Construction Safety Officer 23
Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC
CSO Construction Safety Officer 23
RCSO Registered Construction Safety Officer 23
GSC-CSC Gold Seal Certified Construction Safety Coordinator 24
Canadian Construction Association
NCSO National Construction Safety Officer (NCSO™) Program 25
Canadian Federation of Construction Safety Associations

Canadian Safety DESIGNATIONS
Designation
& Governing CSC Construction Safety Coordinator
Organization New Brunswick Construction Safety Association • www.nbcsa.ca
Qualification Designed to develop and/or enhance health and safety training and auditing skills, the NBCSA
Description Construction Safety Coordinator (CSC) program will assist individuals in becoming more marketable
in today’s workforce. The CSC program is a health and safety designation program specifically
for individuals working in the construction industry. The program’s primary goal is to expose the
participant to the fundamentals of construction safety management and build upon personal field
experience.
In achieving the CSC designation, individuals can provide valuable support to employers in the
implementation and maintenance of a company’s comprehensive health and safety program. Successful
participants can play a key leadership role in effective health and safety management.
Eligibility Applicants must complete nine compulsory and a minimum of three elective courses, and have a minimum
Requirements of three years of field experience in Canada in the construction industry within the past 10 years.
Applicants are also required to submit the following documentation to demonstrate the practical application
of their skills and abilities:
• Job site inspection (Min of 3 copies)
• Toolbox presentation (Min of 3 copies)
• COR internal audit and action plan
• Sign CSC Code of Ethics
Assessment Applicants must complete the applicable assessments for each course, and pass a final written general
Mechanism knowledge exam with a 75% or greater mark.
Certification None specified

Maintenance
Program

Designation
& Governing CSO (Provisional), CSO, and RCSO Construction Safety Officer
Organization Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC (ASTTBC) • cso.asttbc.org
As a member of ASTTBC you are in the unique position of being certified by the only Professional
Qualification Association in Canada to award a certification in Construction Safety. You will hold a registered title
Description under provisions of Provincial Statute (ASTT Act of BC) and Federal trademark law. This immediately
says that your certification is awarded independent of industry or any other agency.
Being awarded the right to carry the title of CSO (Provisional), CSO or RCSO demonstrates that you
have met the ASTTBC competency and enrollment standards, you are committed to a mandatory
Continuing Professional Development Policy and you are held to an Ethics and Professionalism in
Practice Policy.
An ASTTBC certification identifies you as a unique professional who is Qualified, Registered and
accountable. These factors set you apart from any other construction safety designation.
Provisional Construction Safety Officer - CSO (Provisional)
The first step towards a career as a safety professional. The “Provisional” designation shows the applicant
has met the minimum requirements for competency and allows the registrant to then carry the title CSO
(Provisional). All applicants granted registration by ASTTBC will initially receive the CSO (Provisional)
title. Applicants with limited construction experience must accumulate a minimum of three years in
construction safety, working as a CSO (Provisional) before being eligible for reclassification to CSO.
Those applicants with a minimum of two years of relevant construction safety experience, prior to
application, may apply for reclassification to CSO after a minimum of one year as a CSO (Provisional). All
CSO (Provisional) registrants must accumulate the necessary experience and apply for reclassification to
CSO within five years.
Construction Safety Officer - CSO
The Construction Safety Officer (CSO) is a fully competent and experienced safety professional who is
awarded the right to carry the title CSO. This registrant has met all the conditions for reclassification from
CSO (Provisional) and maintains registration in good standing as prescribed in ASTTBC Regulation and
Policies. All CSO’s are eligible to acquire Professional Liability Insurances through ASTTBC. There is no
requirement for a CSO to reclassify to RCSO.
Registered Construction Safety Officer - RCSO
The Registered Construction Safety Officer holds the senior safety designation within the ASTTBC
CSO Certification Program and is awarded the right to the title RCSO. This registrant has worked in
construction safety for a minimum of three years in the role of a construction safety practitioner, has met
all the conditions for reclassification from CSO and maintains registration in good standing as prescribed
in ASTTBC Regulation and Policies.
Applicants must demonstrate they meet the competency standards and other enrollment criteria.
Eligibility Generally, most applicants will have successfully completed a CSO training course offered by one of
Requirements ASTTBC’s accredited training providers. Applicants with other construction safety training will be
considered on a case by case basis and may be required to pass a competency exam administered by
ASTTBC. Certification is a tiered process, starting with “Provisional” level certification, then moving to
CSO, finally leading to “Registered” CSO.
Assessment Applicants must meet all eligibility requirements put in place by ASTTBC. Each application for
Mechanism certification and/or reclassification is only approved after review by the CSO Certification Board.
All CSO (Provisional), CSO and RCSO registrants are required to participate in ongoing Continuing
Certification Professional Development . This typically represents approximately sixty hours per year of additional
Maintenance education related to their role. In addition, members must log all CPD activities on the ASTTBC
Program website, continue to practise in an ethical and professional manner, be subject to practise review and
maintain membership in good standing with ASTTBC.

Designation
& Governing GSC-CSC Gold Seal Certified Construction Safety Coordinator
Organization Canadian Construction Association • www.goldsealcertification.com/safety-coordinator
Qualification The Gold Seal Certified (GSC) Construction Safety Coordinator credential is for professionals who
Description wish to increase their effectiveness in administering, developing, implementing and monitoring safety
programs on a construction site and are responsible for assisting management and other company
personnel on all issues related to the health and safety of their fellow workers.
Gold Seal Certified (GSC) Construction Safety Coordinators serve as a valuable resource to
management in the administration and implementation of the organization’s safety initiatives. Join
a profession in demand in the area of safety in construction and other areas. The Gold Seal Certified
(GSC) Construction Safety Coordinator is a nationally recognized credential and represents a respected
level of competency in construction safety.
Eligibility Safety managers who hold a valid provincial/territorial National Construction Safety Officer (NCSO)
designation from a CFCSA member association and have a total of five years of construction site safety
Requirements experience are automatically eligible to write the Gold Seal exam. Applicants with less than five years of
direct health, safety and environment on-site experience can register as Interns and work towards earning the
credits required to qualify to write the Gold Seal exam.
Assessment Applicants must pass a two-part written examination consisting of multiple-choice, essay or short answer
questions. The examination questions generally fall into one of three broad subject areas: administrative
Mechanism functions, program development and implementation, and program monitoring and evaluation.
Certification None specified.

Maintenance
Program

Designation
& Governing NCSO National Construction Safety Officer (NCSO™) Program
Organization Canadian Federation of Construction Safety Associations • www.cfcsa.ca
Qualification Designed to develop and/or enhance health and safety training and auditing skills, the CFCSA’s National
Construction Safety Officer (NCSO™) program will assist individuals in becoming more marketable
Description in today’s workforce. The NCSO™ program is a health and safety designation program specifically for
individuals working in the construction industry, and has a primary goal to expose the participant to the
fundamentals of construction safety management and build upon personal field experience.
Persons who achieve the NCSO™ designation will have demonstrated a combination of formal training
and a minimum of three years of field experience in the construction industry. In achieving the
NCSO™ designation, individuals can provide valuable support to employers in the implementation and
maintenance of a company’s comprehensive health and safety program and can play a key leadership role
in effective health and safety management.
Eligibility Experience
Requirements Three years construction field experience within the previous ten years.
Construction field experience is defined as: A construction worker (labourer or skilled construction tradesperson)
working directly and actively in the construction field (i.e. residential, commercial, industrial, road building,
pipeline construction, mobile equipment operations, etc.); or, an individual who is directly and actively responsible
for the supervision (i.e. site superintendent) or safety (i.e. site safety coordinator) of the construction worker, whom
also works directly and actively in the construction field.
Training
Applicants must demonstrate completion of training in ten general compulsory elements and six
construction specific elements.
Practical
The applicant must be able to demonstrate proficiency in:
• Hazard Identification and Control
• Communication Activity
• Certificate of Recognition (COR™) Program Audit
Code of Ethics
All NCSO™ holders will be required to sign and adhered to the NCSO™ Code of Ethics.
Assessment Applicants must complete the applicable assessments for each training program. In addition, they must
successfully complete the National NCSO™ General Knowledge Exam with a score of 75% or greater.
Mechanism Unsuccessful applicants much wait for a period of three months before challenging the exam again.
The following provinces/associations require the completion of a provincial/territorial examination to award
the NCSO designation in that jurisdiction:
• Alberta Construction Safety Association • New Brunswick Construction Safety
• British Columbia Construction Safety Alliance Association
• Construction Safety Association of Manitoba • Newfoundland and Labrador Construction
Safety Association
• Heavy Construction Safety Association of
Saskatchewan • Northern Safety Network Yukon
• Infrastructure Health and Safety Association • Northern Safety Association
• WORKSAFELY - Manitoba Heavy • Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association
Construction Association
Certification The NCSO™ designation must be verified every three years and applicants must maintain all applicable
Maintenance training certificates and demonstrate continued proficiency in the required Practical Elements.
Program

International Safety Certifications
PAGE
CET® Certified Environmental, Safety and Health Trainer 27

Board of Certified Safety Professionals
CIH Certified Industrial Hygienist 28
American Board of Industrial Hygiene
CHMM® Certified Hazardous Materials Manager 29
Institute of Hazardous Materials Management
CHMP Certified Hazardous Materials Practitioner 30
Institute of Hazardous Materials Management
CMIOSH Chartered Safety and Health Practitioner 31
Institution of Occupational Safety and Health
CPEA Certified Professional Environmental Auditor (H&S Specialty) 32
Institute of Internal Auditors
CSP® Certified Safety Professional 33
Board of Certified Safety Professionals
CPSA Certified Process Safety Auditor 34
the Institute of Internal Auditors
CSHM Certified Safety & Health Manager 35
Institute for Safety & Health Management
CSMP Certified Safety Management Practitioner 36
Institute for Safety & Health Management
ChOHSP Certified Chartered Generalist OHS Professional 37
Safety Institute of Australia
COHSPRAC Certified Generalist OHS Practitioner 38
COHSPROF Certified Generalist OHS Professional 39

International Safety CERTIFICATIONS International Safety CERTIFICATIONS
Certification
& Governing CET® Certified Environmental, Safety and Health Trainer
Organization Board of Certified Safety Professionals • www.bcsp.org
Qualification The Certified Environmental, Safety & Health Trainer (CET) is a certification held by those with
Description experience and expertise in developing, designing, and delivering safety, health and environmental
(SH&E) training. The CET measures an individual’s knowledge of the theory and practice of basic adult
education, and confirms knowledge and experience in the SH&E specialty area(s) in which they teach.
Eligibility To be eligible for the CET, candidates have conducted at least 135 delivery hours of teaching or training in
Requirements any SH&E specialty and hold one or more BCSP-approved SH&E credential.
The candidate must also hold a BCSP approved SH&E credential (e.g. CSP, OHST, CRSP, CIH, etc.)
Assessment Applicants must pass an online four-hour 200 question multiple-choice examination
Mechanism
Certification CETs must remain up-to-date with changes in professional practice by earning 20 recertification
Maintenance points every five years. 2.8 of these points must be in teaching, developing and/or attending courses on
instructional techniques
Program
All CET certificants must observe the code of ethics and professional standards set forth by the Code of
Ethics established by the BCSP
Accreditation The Certified Environmental, Safety and Health Trainer (CET) certification has been accredited by the
Council of Engineering and Scientific Specialty Boards (CESB)

International Safety CERTIFICATIONS
Certification
& Governing CIH Certified Industrial Hygienist
Organization American Board of Industrial Hygiene • www.abih.org
Qualification A Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) has met the minimum requirements for education and
Description experience, and through examination, has demonstrated a minimum level of knowledge and skills in
the following rubric (subject matter) areas:
• Air sampling and instrumentation • Health risk analysis and hazard communication
• Analytical chemistry • IH program management
• Basic science • Noise
• Biohazards • Non-engineering controls
• Biostatistics and epidemiology • Radiation – ionizing and non-ionizing
• Community exposure • Thermal stressors
• Engineering controls/ventilation • Toxicology
• Ergonomics • Work environments and industrial processes
Minimum of a four-year bachelor’s degree from a regionally-accredited college or university in biology,

Eligibility chemistry, physics, engineering, or in industrial hygiene or safety from an ABET-accredited program or with
Requirements at least 60 semester hours of science, math, engineering, or science-based technology (15 hours at the junior,
senior, or graduate level)
Completed a minimum of 180 academic contact hours or 240 continuing education contact hours of
specific industrial hygiene courses. At least half of the required coursework (90 academic or 120 continuing
education contact hours) must be in the areas of the fundamentals of industrial hygiene, toxicology, and
measurements and controls
Professional level, broad-scope IH experience spanning at least four years of industrial hygiene practice (one
year or six months of credit available for graduates of an ABET-accredited IH program, with a master’s or
bachelor’s degree respectively), and at least two of the following occupational health stressors: chemical,
physical, biological or ergonomics
Applicants need to provide a minimum of two professional references
Applicants must pass an online exam consisting of 150 scored items and an additional 30 experimental
Assessment questions
Mechanism
The exam is 5 hours in length with an optional 30-minute break in the middle
• Practise ethically
Certification • Pay annual fees • Teaching & Presenting - teaching or
Maintenance • Submit acceptable CM worksheet or pass exam presenting IH to any audience
Program • Submit audit records (if Certification • Examination - retake (and pass) the exam in
Maintenance Worksheet is audited) lieu of submitting a worksheet
• Certification Maintenance categories include: • Other - includes mentoring, other professional
• Active IH Practice - CM credit for active certifications, and many other miscellaneous
practice if at least 20% of the job is IH activities
• Committees - serving on IH technical and - Every ABIH diplomate is expected to practise
professional committees external to the ethical behaviour to the best of their abilities.
company Each diplomate is expected to be committed
to do this when initially certified and the
• Publications - IH articles published in commitment is repeated during each CM cycle
peer-reviewed journals or non-peer-reviewed
magazines - A diplomate found to be in violation of the
Code of Ethics will be subject to a range of
• Education - any training event, internal or sanctions up to and including decertification
external to the organization, as long as it meets
the time and subject matter criteria
Accreditation The Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) program has been accredited by the National Commission for
Certifying Agencies (NCAA) and to the ISO/IEC 17024 Standard for Conformity assessment — General
requirements for bodies operating certification of persons by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

Certification
& Governing CHMM® Certified Hazardous Materials Manager
Organization Institute of Hazardous Materials Management • www.ihmm.org
Qualification IHMM’s accredited Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) credential recognizes your
Description expertise and opens new possibilities for you to make a significant impact on your community and your
country. Corporations, universities and government agencies depend on the CHMM certification to
identify hazardous materials professionals like you. By earning the CHMM credential, you join together
with a community of over 16,000 of your peers who have demonstrated their personal commitment to
professional excellence, and protecting the environment and the public’s health and safety.
All candidates must meet two prerequisites to sit for the CHMM examination:
Eligibility
Requirements • Baccalaureate degree (or higher) from an accredited college or university.
• Minimum of four years of relevant experience in the field of hazardous materials management
or a related field. Relevant experience includes, but is not limited to the following examples:
- Hazardous materials identification and handling in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
- Planning and preparing for and responding to hazmat emergencies and incidents.
- Sampling and analysis (of air, water, soil, waste) for potential contaminants.
- Site investigation and remediation.
- Hazmat program or project management.
Assessment Applicants must pass a three-hour online examination consisting of 140 multiple-choice questions
Mechanism
Certification The CHMM is awarded for a period of 5 years, and the expiration date is entered on each numbered
certificate. CHMM certificants are required to recertify within 6 months of the credential expiration
Maintenance or they will be decertified. Certificants must comply with the current recertification requirements.
Program IHMM will send reminder notices during the final year of certification. Recertification credit shall be
represented and tracked by Certification Maintenance Points (CMPs).
• Each applicant must demonstrate a total of at least 200 CMPs for his/her specific 5-year cycle.
• Each applicant may demonstrate up to 100 CMPs for Active Practice (employment).
• Each applicant must demonstrate at least 100 CMPs for Professional Development.
• All CMPs claimed must have been earned during the current 5-year cycle ONLY in order to count
towards recertification.
Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) certification has been accredited by the Council of
Accreditation Engineering and Scientific Specialty Boards (CESB), and by the American National Standards Institute
(ANSI) to meet the ISO/IEC 17024 Standard for Conformity assessment – General requirements for
bodies operating certification of persons.

Certification
& Governing CHMP Certified Hazardous Materials Practitioner
Organization Institute of Hazardous Materials Management • www.ihmm.org
Qualification As a Certified Hazardous Materials Practitioner (CHMP), your job encompasses more than just
Description environmental protection, waste management, dangerous goods transportation, safety, or materials handling.
By working in an area that involves hazardous or potentially hazardous materials, you serve all of these
areas and more. Corporations, universities, and government agencies depend on the certification to identify
distinguished individuals.
The CHMP credential has been developed as a standard of proficiency for front-line hazardous materials
workers. Acquiring the CHMP credential for yourself and/or recommending it to your colleagues will provide
added assurance to both you and your employer of the secure and proper handling and management of
hazardous materials in the workplace. The CHMP is intended to enhance regulatory compliance, safety, and
overall credibility of operations, and provide recognition to individuals who meet its rigorous requirements.
Eligibility Your education and/or experience will determine your eligibility to sit for the exam. There are two ways to qualify:
Requirements • You must have at least 5 years of relevant experience with responsibilities directly related to the handling
of hazardous materials and/or waste in the workplace, or;
• You must have an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree from an accredited college or university in
hazardous materials management, environmental science, environmental management, or environmental
technology, plus 3 years of relevant experience. Relevant experience includes, but is not limited to, the
following:
- Hazardous materials identification and handling in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
- Planning and preparing for and responding to hazmat emergencies and incidents.
- Sampling and analysis (of air, water, soil, waste) for potential contaminants.
- Site investigation and remediation.
- Hazmat program or project management.
Assessment Applicants must pass a three-hour online examination consisting of 120 multiple-choice questions.
Mechanism
The practice of handling hazardous materials occurs in a wide variety of specialized activities associated with
Certification public health and safety, transportation, security, environmental protection, and other related areas.
Maintenance Because these fields change frequently, accreditation standards require that certification in such fields be
Program renewed periodically. To make sure this happens, IHMM requires you to be recertified every five years.
CHMPs must earn a total of 200 certification maintenance points (CMPs) during a five (5) year cycle to
qualify for recertification. Maintaining the highest professional standards by continuing to uphold and abide
by the Code of Ethics is also a requirement for recertification.
The Recertification Program was developed to ensure that CHMPs remain competent in the practice of
handling hazardous materials, and to encourage certificants to continuously enhance their knowledge, skills,
and abilities. IHMM has provided certificants with many options that they may utilize for the purpose of
meeting recertification requirements. The options are based on IHMM’s Philosophy of Recertification.
• Each applicant must demonstrate a total of at • Each applicant must demonstrate at least 100
least 200 CMPs for his/her specific 5-year cycle. CMPs for Professional Development.
• Each applicant may demonstrate up to 100 • All CMPs claimed must have been earned during
CMPs for Active Practice (employment). the current 5-year cycle ONLY in order to count
towards recertification.
Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) certification has been accredited by the Council of
Accreditation Engineering and Scientific Specialty Boards (CESB), and by the American National Standards Institute
(ANSI) to meet the ISO/IEC 17024 Standard for Conformity assessment — General requirements for
bodies operating certification of persons.

Certification
& Governing CMIOSH Chartered Safety and Health Practitioner
Organization Institution of Occupational Safety and Health • www.iosh.co.uk
Qualification As the only organisation in the world that offers Chartered membership to health and safety
Description practitioners, the Institution of Occupational Health and Safety (IOSH) helps practitioners achieve the
highest professional standards.
Employers know that when they work with a Chartered Safety and Health Practitioner, they’re
dealing with someone who’s at the top of their profession. Chartered Members also have the respect
of their peers — other professionals know that they’ve been through a rigorous process to become
Chartered and have met the high standards of the world’s most prestigious body for health and safety
professionals. Becoming a Chartered Member is possible after gaining Graduate membership.
Eligibility Applicants must hold GradIOSH membership status, which requires the applicant to hold a qualification
Requirements equivalent to the European Qualification Framework (EQF) Level 6, or any other qualification that IOSH
assesses as meeting the criteria, such as a:
• Bachelor’s degree/post-graduate diploma
• Masters of Science degree (MSc)
• National Qualifications Framework/Qualifications and Credit Framework (NQF/QCF)
Level 6 Diploma (e.g., British Safety Council Diploma in OHS)
• National Vocational Qualification (NVQ Level 5 Diploma)
• NQV Level 5 Diploma
• Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) Level 10 Diploma
• Cognate degree (degree in a different discipline that includes some OHS-related coursework)
• Experience required for progression to Chartered status is assessed according to qualification route
Assessment Must complete the open assessment examination and/or open skills portfolio, and successfully complete
Mechanism a professional peer interview.
Certification Must participate in a mandatory CPD program.

Maintenance Those holding CMIOSH membership status owe a primary loyalty to those at risk and should seek to
Program ensure professional independence in the execution of their duties. In a profession, it is essential that
members demonstrate integrity by being honest and acting fairly. They must also avoid departing
from the standards of integrity, competence and respect in their private lives in any way that could
undermine public trust and confidence in the profession.
The governing body has adopted and adheres to very similar requirements as those mandated by either
Accreditation a personal accreditation body or prescribed in an applicable standard and in doing so ensure that a high

Certification
& Governing CPEA Certified Professional Environmental Auditor (Health & Safety Specialty)
Organization Institute of Internal Auditors • na.theiia.org
Qualification The CPEA (Health & Safety Specialty) credential demonstrates one’s understanding of today’s ever
Description changing environmental, health & safety regulations, and/or applying professional health & safety
auditing practices. Candidates must possess the knowledge and understanding of ethics and standards
of conduct for auditors. They should demonstrate knowledge of the design, structure and key planning
elements of health and safety audits, including pre-audit activities and developing audit findings,
recommendations, and processes.
Eligibility Bachelor’s degree or higher, and a minimum of The above may include any combination of safety
Requirements four years of relevant work experience, which must engineering, industrial hygiene, health and safety
include: management, and technical aspects of business
• Identifying health and safety impacts activities including:
• Assessing compliance with safety-related laws • Facility operations
and regulations, and/or • OSHA laws, regulations, and related documents
• Applying professional health and safety auditing at the national and local jurisdictional levels
practices • Evaluation, implementation and management of
Performed a minimum of 20 health and safety health and safety compliance
audits for a minimum of 100 days within the four • Health and safety standards against which
years prior to certification. Of the 100 days, a management systems and compliance audits
minimum of 20 days must be conducted on-site. may be conducted
Completed formal training as an attendee or • Management systems and compliance audits
provider is required within the three years prior to procedures, processes, and techniques
certification. This training shall consist of 40 hours • Principles of health and safety compliance and
of formal training in relevant experience elements compliance implementation
(see web-site for details)
Must provide two character references from responsible persons such as a supervisor or a manager who
have known the applicant for a minimum of two years and have knowledge of the applicant’s experience
and skills relative to auditing.
Assessment Applicants must pass a three-part written examination: Part I – General Knowledge (131 multiple-choice
Mechanism questions; two hours to complete); Part II – Health & Safety (152 multiple-choice questions; two hours to
complete); Part III – Health & Safety (four essay questions and four short answer items; two hours to complete)
Certification Certificants are responsible for:

Maintenance • Updating their knowledge and skills related to improvements and current developments in EHS
Program auditing standards, procedures, and techniques.
• Maintaining their technical knowledge and skills in EHS regulations and standards.
CPEAs who are performing EHS auditing functions must complete a total of 20 hours of acceptable
CPD every year and pay an annual certification fee.
The Certified Professional Environmental Auditor - Health & Safety Specialty (CPEA) certification is
Accreditation accredited by the Council of Engineering and Scientific Specialty Boards (CESB).

Certification
& Governing CSP® Certified Safety Professional
Organization Board of Certified Safety Professionals • www.bcsp.org
Qualification Certified Safety Professionals (CSP) designation holders perform at least 50% of professional Level
Description safety duties including: making worksite assessments to determine risks, potential hazards and controls,
evaluating risks and hazard control measures, investigating incidents, maintaining and evaluating
incident and loss records, and preparing emergency response plans.
Other duties could include; hazard recognition, fire protection, regulatory compliance, health hazard
control, ergonomics, hazardous materials management, environmental protection, training, accident
and incident investigations, advising management, record keeping, emergency response, managing
safety programs, product safety and/or security.
Eligibility Bachelor’s degree or higher in any field from an accredited institution, or an associate degree in safety, health,
Requirements or environmental from an accredited institution. The associate degree must include at least four courses
with at least 12 semester hours of study in the safety, health, or environmental domains covered in the CSP
examination blueprint.
Four years of safety experience where safety is at least 50%, preventative, professional level with breadth and
depth of safety duties
One or more BCSP-approved credential.
Professional Level safety experience must meet the following criteria to qualify:
Professional safety must be a function of the position
The responsibility must be the prevention of harm to people, property, and the environment, rather than
responsibility for responding to harmful events. CETs must have 135 hours of training in safety.
Assessment Applicants must pass a 5.5 hour online multiple-choice examination consisting of 200 questions.
Mechanism
Certification After completing all of the requirements, BCSP awards all candidates who pass the CSP exam with the
CSP credential. Certificants must pay their annual renewal fees in order to maintain certification. A
Maintenance prorated renewal fee will be applied for the remainder of the year in which the candidate passes the exam.
Program
CSPs must remain up-to-date with changes in professional practice by earning a minimum of 25
recertification points every five years.
All CSP certificants must observe the Code of Ethics and professional standards set forth by the BCSP.
Certified Safety Professional (CSP) certification has been accredited by the National Commission for the
Accreditation Certifying Agencies (NCAA) and by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) to the ISO/IEC 17024
Standard for Conformity assessment — General requirements for bodies operating certification of persons.

Certification
& Governing CPSA Certified Process Safety Auditor
Organization Institute of Internal Auditors • na.theiia.org
Qualification The Certified Process Safety Auditor (CPSA) credential demonstrates one’s understanding of important
Process Safety elements and regulations for all industries with processes that involve explosive materials
Description and hazardous waste.
Eligibility General Work Experience: The applicant will be required to have at least 15 years experience with a
Requirements secondary school diploma, or at least 10 years of experience with an Associate’s degree, or at least seven years
experience with a Bachelor’s degree.
Process Safety Experience - Verifiable experience gained during the last ten years in at least two of the areas
described below:
• Implementation of Process Safety programs • Pre-start-up safety reviews
• Product Stewardship, Transportation or • Process Safety Management systems
Distribution of hazardous products and standards
• Process Hazard Analysis • Mechanical Integrity
• Management of Change • Process Safety Information
• Requirements of Process Safety laws, • Process Safety auditing procedures, processes
regulations and related documents and auditing techniques
Audit Experience: Applicant shall provide evidence of auditing experience within the previous five years,
consisting of either a minimum of 20 comprehensive process safety audits, or have audited for a minimum of
100 days, including at least 20 days on site.
Process Safety Training: Applicant shall provide evidence of at least 40 hours training in the past three years.
At least 32 hours of training should be specific to Process Safety, and the remaining eight hours should be
relevant to auditing, health & safety, or management systems.
Character Reference: Applicants must provide two peer references, from a responsible person such as a
supervisor or a manager. Individuals providing references must have known the applicant for a minimum of
two years and have knowledge of the applicant’s experience and skills relative to auditing.
Assessment Applicants must successfully pass a two-part, five-hour exam

Mechanism
Certification Certificants should maintain the high standards of the profession by selecting educational programs of
Maintenance high quality to fulfill the CPD requirements. CPSAs performing process safety auditing functions must
Program complete a total of 20 hours of acceptable CPD every year and pay an annual certification fee.
Acceptable formal CPD programs contribute directly to the professional competence of a Certificant,
and should:
• contribute to the professional competence of participants;
• state program objectives which specify the level of knowledge the participants should have attained,
or the level of competence to be demonstrated upon completing the program;
• be developed by individuals qualified in the subject matter and instructional design;
• provide program content which is current;
• be on a professional level.
The Certified Process Safety Auditor (CPSA) certification is accredited by the Council of Engineering and
Accreditation Scientific Specialty Boards (CESB).

Certification
& Governing CSHM Certified Safety & Health Manager
Organization Institute for Safety and Health Management • www.ishm.org
Qualification CSHM is the ultimate recognition for EHS professionals with knowledge and experience in safety
Description management and general business principles. It is ideal for those who seek Executive positions within
their organizations. CSHM tests technical knowledge of occupational safety and health plus working
knowledge of business and financial principles and assesses your understanding of hazard analysis, accident
investigation, safety audits, workers comp, product safety, environmental laws, labor relations, and more.
Eligibility • Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree plus five qualifying years of work experience or Associate Safety
Requirements and Health Manager (ASHM) designation plus two years’ qualifying experience
• Candidates who possess a valid certification with similar education and experience requirements
(such as CSP, CIH, or CHMM) may meet the education and experience criteria without the
submission of transcripts
• Highest attained education level will be utilized as means of determining the experience
requirement. An individual will not be allowed to stack education toward the experience
requirement
• Full time professional safety and health management experience acceptable. Requires position duties
with 50% or greater safety and health management related activities.
• Two years of part time experiences with 25% or greater safety and health management activities may
be substituted for one full-time year
Assessment Applicants must pass an online 150 question multiple-choice examination in four distinct areas of subject
matter:
Mechanism
• General and business management
• Management methods and systems
• Safety, health, and environment applications
• R isk identification, management and control
Certification Every five (5) years you will be reminded to submit the Continuance of Certification (COC) worksheet
as proof of having achieved 30 COC points. To maintain certification, a CSHM must provide written
Maintenance evidence of continued professional qualifications by submitting a COC worksheet or successfully
Program completing the CSHM examination.
The Certified Safety & Health Manager (CSHM) certification is accredited by The Council of
Accreditation Engineering and Scientific Specialty Boards (CESB).

Certification
& Governing CSMP Certified Safety Management Practitioner
Organization Institute for Safety and Health Management • www.ishm.org
Qualification The Certified Safety Management Practitioner (CSMP) designation supports occupational safety and
Description health management activities either on a part-time or full-time basis. The CSMP program recognizes
practitioners who demonstrate knowledge of health and safety management skills and techniques
through examination and experience, and those who have attained a level of knowledge, training and
experience to competently manage a safety and health program. The CSMP designation can help
strengthen future career choices and provide a competitive edge.
The CSMP program is administered by the Institute for Safety and Health Management (ISHIM).
Through its certification program, ISHM promotes the advancement of safety management through
the application of management principles and the integration of safety into all levels and activities of an
organization. ISHM also administers the Certified Safety and Health Manager (CSHM), and Associate
Safety and Health Manager (ASHM) programs. While the scope of the three designations is similar,
the CSMP recognizes those who have taken a less formal safety and health education path.
Many people enter the safety and health profession from varied backgrounds. Over time and with
experience, on-the-job education, meetings and conferences, these practitioners may become highly
effective safety and health practitioners, including active safety team participants, line managers,
engineers, or human resources professionals. In addition to technical knowledge of occupational safety
and health, a successful CSMP must possess working knowledge of a broad range of business issues and
principles and an understanding of safety-related issues such as hazard analyses, accident investigations,
safety audits and surveys, workers’ compensation, product safety, environmental laws, quality, and
labour relations.
Eligibility High school diploma or GED, plus a minimum of three years of full-time professional Level safety
Requirements and health management experience acceptable to the ISHM. Full-time professional safety and health
management experience requires position duties with 50% or greater safety and health management-related
activities. Two years of part-time experience (25% or greater safety and health management-related activities)
may be substituted for one full-time year.
The work experience prerequisite is reduced for candidates who hold a Board-approved degree.
Assessment Applicants must pass an online 100 question multiple-choice examination in four distinct areas of
Mechanism subject matter:
• General and business management
• Management methods and systems
• Safety, health, and environment applications
• Risk identification, management and control
Certification To maintain certification, a CSMP must provide written evidence of continued professional
Maintenance qualifications by submitting a COC worksheet or successfully completing the CSMP examination.
Program
The Certified Safety Management Practitioner (CSMP) certification is accredited by The International
Accreditation Certification Accreditation Council (ICAC) to the ISO 17024 Standard and The Council of Engineering
and Scientific Specialty Boards (CESB).

Certification
& Governing ChOHSP Certified Chartered Generalist OHS Professional
Organization Safety Institute of Australia • www.sia.org.au/certification
Qualification A ChOHS Professional has knowledge and skills of the OHS Profession and is a person with high
Description level specialist skills in a specific area and/or high-level strategic skills. They are likely to be a designer
of strategy and influential with senior management and/or policy makers. Their perspective embraces
leading-edge thinking in OHS and takes account of the broader organisational and social context
of their advice. Refer to INSHPO Global Capability Framework for more details of the OHS
Professional’s role and capability.
• PhD or Master’s degree in OHS, or Graduate Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in OHS plus a Master’s
Eligibility degree in any other discipline
Requirements • Ten years of full-time equivalent organizational experience (including five years full-time equivalent in
OHS which includes a minimum of three years full-time equivalent at a senior OHS management level)
• Submit a Reflective Journal
• The submitted Reflective Journal and referee interviews will be evaluated to confirm that the applicant
Assessment has demonstrated the required capabilities
Mechanism • Interview
Certification All Certified Chartered Generalist OHS Professionals are required to participate in the SIA’s
Maintenance Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Program and submit reports annually that detail their
Program CPD activities for the preceding year.
Accreditation OHS Certification uses the qualifications accredited by the Australian OHS Education Accreditation
Board as the education assessment standard for Certified Generalist OHS Professional and Certified
Chartered Generalist OHS Professional. Qualifications not accredited are assessed on an individual basis.
The Certified Chartered Generalist OHS Professional certification is not independently accredited.
The SIA has adopted and adheres to very similar requirements as those mandated by either a personal
accreditation body or prescribed in an applicable standard, and in doing so ensures that a high standard of
excellence is maintained.

Certification
& Governing COHSPRAC Certified Generalist OHS Practitioner
Qualification The Certified Generalist OHS Practitioner is intended for those that have worked in an occupational health and
Description safety practitioner role for a minimum of three years full-time equivalent.
Certified OHS Practitioners are implementers of strategy and actions usually designed by an OHS Professional.
They support a safe working environment by maintaining OHS administrative processes, conducting basic
training and using a range of state of the art tools, processes and standard practice solutions to OHS risks and
their management, particularly aimed at routine and well-known processes and work. Refer to the INSHPO
Global Capability Framework for more details of the OHS Practitioner’s role and capability.
• Holds a Diploma or Advanced Diploma in OHS [Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 5
Eligibility or 6]
Requirements • Has three years of full-time equivalent experience in the role of an OHS practitioner
• Submit a Practitioner Portfolio Report
Assessment The submitted Practitioner Portfolio Report and referee interviews will be evaluated to confirm that the
Mechanism applicant has demonstrated the required capability
Certification All Certified Generalist OHS Practitioners are required to participate in the SIA’s Continuing
Maintenance Professional Development (CPD) Program, and submit reports annually that detail their CPD activities
Program for the preceding year.
The SIA uses the education qualifications accredited by Australian OHS Education Accreditation Board
Accreditation (AOHSEAB) assessment standard for both the Certified Generalist OHS Professional and Certified
Chartered Generalist OHS Professional certifications. Education qualifications not accredited by the
AOHSEAB are assessed on an individual basis.
The Certified Generalist OHS Practitioner certification is not independently accredited. The SIA has
adopted and adheres to very similar requirements as those mandated by either a personal accreditation
body or prescribed in an applicable standard, and in doing so ensures that a high standard of excellence is
maintained.
Alternate Eligibility and Certification Pathways

There is a Memorandum of Understanding in place between the Board of Canadian Registered Safety
Memorandum Professionals and the Safety Institute of Australia. It provides that to be awarded the COHSProf
of certification by the SIA, a person who holds a CRSP certification from the BCRSP will not be required
Understanding to submit practice reports or undergo reference checks. They will be immediately eligible to enter the
- BCRSP & SIA OHS Professional Knowledge Assessment, to be certified on passing this assessment and completion of an
assessment on Australian WHS/OHS law.

Certification
& Governing COHSPROF Certified Generalist OHS Professional
Qualification The Certified Generalist OHS Professional qualification is intended for those that have worked in an
Description occupational health and safety role for a minimum of three years full-time equivalent.
Certified Generalist OHS Professionals are generators of strategy relating to the organisation and
management of OHS within the wider context of business processes and external regulatory, market
and societal influences. They are influential with senior management and involved in problem solving
and organisational review and change as leaders, advisers and consultants. Refer to the INSHPO
Global Capability Framework for more details of the OHS Professional’s role and capability.
• Hold a Bachelor’s, Graduate Diploma, or Master’s degree in OHS [Australian Qualifications Framework
Eligibility (AQF) Level 7, 8 or 9]
Requirements • Have three years of full-time equivalent experience in the role of an OHS professional
• Submit a Professional Practice Report
Assessment The submitted Professional Practice Report and referee interviews will be evaluated to confirm that the
Mechanism applicant has demonstrated the required capabilities.
Certification All Certified Generalist OHS Professionals are required to participate in the SIA’s Continuing
Maintenance Professional Development (CPD) Program and submit reports annually that detail their CPD activities
The SIA uses the education qualifications accredited by Australian OHS Education Accreditation Board
Accreditation (AOHSEAB) assessment standard for both the Certified Generalist OHS Professional and Certified
Chartered Generalist OHS Professional certifications. Education qualifications not accredited by the
AOHSEAB are assessed on an individual basis.
The Certified Generalist OHS Professional certification is not independently accredited. The SIA has
adopted and adheres to very similar requirements as those mandated by either a personal accreditation
body or prescribed in an applicable standard, and in doing so ensures that a high standard of excellence is
maintained.


Pathway for Certification at Certified Generalist OHS Professional Level - SIA
Qualification The SIA understands that many capable people working in the field today have developed careers in
Description a different educational landscape, and so they have introduced assessment processes that allow people
who have extensive experience but less academic qualifications, to achieve certification. One such
pathway already in place is the OHS Professional Knowledge Assessment (OKA), which assesses at
OHS professional level with a combination of exam, case study and VIVA has enabled the assessment
of these applicants against the OHS Body of Knowledge and practical application of OHS practice in
workplace environments.
• Hold a Diploma in WHS or COHSPract certification or a university degree in any field at AQF Level 7,
Eligibility 8 or 9 with some OHS related content
Requirements • Have five years of full-time equivalent experience in the role of an OHS professional
• Complete OHS Professional Knowledge Assessment
• Submit a Professional Practice Report
Assessment After applicants successfully complete the OHS Professional Knowledge Assessment, the submitted
Mechanism Professional Practice Report and referee interviews will be evaluated to confirm that the applicant has
demonstrated the required capabilities
Certification All Certified Generalist OHS Professionals are required to participate in the SIA’s Continuing
Maintenance Professional Development (CPD) Program and submit reports annually that detail their CPD activities


OH&S Practitioner Profiles
When looking to hire an OH&S practitioner, employers in Canada should consider the information
provided in the four position outlines that appear on the following pages. From entry level to the most
senior OH&S positions, each describes the education, training, work experience, capabilities, and
recognized safety certifications and/or designations necessary to succeed within an organization. It’s
recommended that those interested in pursuing a career in OH&S, or current practitioners looking to
prepare themselves for future opportunities also consider this information.

Entry Level
COMMON POSITION TITLES
• Construction Safety Officer
• Safety Advisor
• Safety Coordinator
• Safety Officer
EDUCATION
• High school graduate, or;
• Certificate in OH&S from an accredited college or university, or;
• Currently enrolled in a Certificate level program or other program of study in OH&S through an accredited
college or university
TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

• Completion of a recognized construction safety practitioner training program offered by or through an
established national or provincial construction industry safety association or other organization (as an
alternative to holding a Certificate in OH&S from an accredited college or university)
• Completion of various short-duration courses on OH&S related topics (e.g. incident investigations, hazard
identification and risk assessment, WHMIS, etc.)
• Attendance at various OH&S related conferences, workshops, and seminars
WORK EXPERIENCE
• Minimum of two years of related industry experience
• Participation in various OH&S related activities, such as:
• Being a member of a joint occupational health and safety committee or similar group
• Assisting with the development of safe work practices and procedures
• Conducting workplace safety inspections
• Delivering crew talks/toolbox talks, or similar short-duration training or awareness related communication
CAPABILITIES
• Possesses a basic understanding of the concepts of hazard and risk
• Familiar with the hierarchy of controls approach to managing OH&S risks
• Working knowledge of the OH&S legislation applicable to the industry
• Effective interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team
• Demonstrated critical thinking and analytical skills
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Basic familiarity with business software programs (e.g., MS Office applications, etc.)
CERTIFICATIONS & DESIGNATIONS

• None required, however preference may be given to candidates who holds a recognized OH&S certification
or designation or designation

Intermediate Level
• OH&S Consultant
• Safety Advisor
• Safety Coordinator
• Safety Officer
EDUCATION
• Diploma or Certificate in OH&S from an accredited college or university
TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

• Completion of various short-duration courses on OH&S related topics (e.g. incident investigations, hazard
identification and risk assessment, auditing, etc.)
established national or provincial construction industry safety association or other organization (as an
alternative to holding a Diploma or Certificate in OH&S from an accredited college or university)
WORK EXPERIENCE
• Minimum of three years of full-time (or full-time equivalent) experience as an OH&S practitioner, preferably
in a related industry, which includes some of the following:
• Delivering OH&S related training
• Being a member of a joint occupational health and safety committee or similar group
• Developing and maintaining OH&S programs (e.g. contractor pre-qualification programs, implementing
revisions due to changing legislation, etc.)
• Conducting internal safety program & management system reviews and audits (e.g., Certificate of
Recognition related, etc.)
• Conducting accident investigations
• Interacting with representatives of OH&S and other regulatory agencies
CAPABILITIES
• Strong working knowledge of the hazard identification processes, risk assessment methodologies, incident
investigation models and methodologies
• Familiar with the hazards specific to the particular industry
• Capable of applying the hierarchy of controls approach to managing OH&S risks
• Strong working knowledge of the OH&S legislation applicable to the industry
• Effective interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team
• Demonstrated critical thinking and analytical skills
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Proficient with business software programs (e.g., MS Office applications, etc.)

• Preference may be given to those who hold one or more recognized OH&S certification(s) or designation(s).

Managerial Level
• OH&S Consultant
• Manager, Health & Safety
• Manager, Occupational and
Environmental Health & Safety
• Safety Manager
EDUCATION
• Degree, Diploma or Certificate in OH&S from an accredited college or university
TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

established national or provincial construction industry safety association or other organization
WORK EXPERIENCE
A minimum of five years of full-time (or full-time equivalent) experience as an OH&S practitioner, preferably
in a related industry, which includes some of the following:
• Developing, implementing and maintaining OH&S programs and management systems
• Delivering OH&S related training
• Auditing internal safety program & management systems (e.g., Certificate of Recognition related, etc.)
• Investigating workplace incidents
• Conducting workplace inspections
• Managing OH&S related projects using established project management principles
• Interacting with representatives of OH&S and other regulatory agencies
• Participation in technical committees or working groups to develop industry-specific or national safety
related standards
CAPABILITIES
• Strong leadership skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Comprehensive knowledge of established OH&S safety management system standards (e.g., ISO 45001, CSA
Z1000, ANSI/ASSP/AIHA Z10, OHSAS 18001, etc.)
• Demonstrated success implementing return to work/disability management programs
• Comprehensive knowledge of OH&S and related legislation applicable to the organization
• Familiarity with business management principles, including accounting, budgeting, resource allocation, and
project management
• Proficiency with business software programs (e.g., MS Office applications, etc.)
• Demonstrated commitment to continuous professional development

• Preference should be given to those who hold one or more recognized OH&S certifications

Director/Executive Level
• Director, OH&S
• VP, OH&S
• VP, Health, Safety & Wellness
EDUCATION
• Bachelor’s or Graduate degree from an accredited college or university in OH&S, engineering, business, or a
closely related field
WORK EXPERIENCE
Minimum of ten years, which includes the following:
• Responsibility for the overall risk management activities associated with occupational health and safety in a
large, diversified, multi-location organization
• Setting the strategic direction and goals of OH&S
• Involvement in corporate social responsibility and sustainability initiatives
• Budgeting and the allocation of resources for managing OH&S
• Interacting with the senior leadership team to optimize the integration of and support for OH&S within the
organization
• Serving as the liaison between executive management and/or the board of directors, government agencies,
industry associations, and other stakeholder groups
• Leading and managing a team
CAPABILITIES
• Outstanding leadership skills
• Exceptional organizational skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Exceptionally skilled at building and maintaining effective relationships with internal and external
stakeholders
• Expert knowledge of the development, implementation and maintenance of occupational health and safety
management systems based upon established standards such as ISO 45001, CSA Z1000, ANSI/ASSP/AIHA
Z10, and OHSAS 18001
• Strong working knowledge of OH&S and related regulatory requirements applicable to organizations
operating in multi-jurisdictional environments

• Preference should be given to those who hold one or more recognized safety certifications

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions pertaining to the OH&S profession can range from general information to specific details
about the profession and to salary expectations and what to look for when hiring.
What are my obligations as an employer regarding occupational health and safety?
OH&S legislation is primarily a matter of provincial or territory jurisdiction. Each province or
territory is responsible for outlining the responsibilities of employers, supervisors and workers.
For workers employed by the federal government, Crown agencies or corporations, and some
organizations that operate across provincial boundaries, the Canada Labour Code applies.
Generally, legislative similarities include the obligation of employers to provide workers with a safe
work environment and safe working conditions. Although wording and phrasing may vary, most
legislation mandates the employer to ensure the working conditions on worksites are safe for workers
and they are informed of their legislative responsibilities.
Are employers required to hire an OH&S practitioner?
Legislation does not mandate employers to hire OH&S practitioners. However, an increasing
number of employers are relying upon the expertise of OH&S practitioners to assist with attaining
and ensuring their regulatory compliance. Legislation does not generally require employers to use
competent workers in the completion of work tasks; many employers interpret “compliance” in this
context to mean hiring an OH&S practitioner.
Is there data available that outlines the financial benefits of hiring an OH&S practitioner?
Many organizations, including insurance underwriters, can attest to the direct financial benefits.
A Liberty Mutual poll of senior executives found that for every $1 invested in workplace OH&S
activities, $3 was saved. (www.asse.org/professionalaffairs/roi)
Is there a resource available that indicates the salary of an OH&S practitioner?
The Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals conducts a Salary Survey of its certificate
holders every two years. The survey can be searched by employment setting, career experience, age,
region, salary and demographic.
This tool can be accessed through their website at http://bcrsp.ca/salary-survey-tool

Interview Guide
The purpose of the interview guide is to provide an interviewer who is hiring for an OH&S role with
a series of questions that would distinguish the level of knowledge and approach to occupational health
and safety. From the candidate’s responses, the interviewer can align their expectations of the role with
the candidate’s abilities and thereby increase the potential for hiring a successful candidate.
Questions can be adapted to the level of the position being sought, as in most cases the questions
generally provide insight to the principles and practice of OH&S practitioners.

Entry Level Practitioner
QUESTIONS
Q What are your personal and professional goals in safety?
A These could consist of: Entry Level, Intermediate Level, Managerial Level, Director/Executive Level
Q What are the key elements of a safety or crew talk?

A Introduction of topic, written learning objective, subject matter content, proof of knowledge or
competency. (Introduction, body, conclusion)
Q Using an example from your current or past work experience (or school project), please explain a process by
which you ensured that key safety hazards were identified and mitigated. Please be specific. (Have candidate
focus on a real life example and specific hazard(s) from their current or past work environment.)
A Job Hazard Analysis and/or Risk Assessment. List the tasks of a specific job, identify the hazards
for each task, identifying and implementing controls for each hazard, using a hierarchy of controls
approach that would include: elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls
and use of personal protective equipment.
Q Have you ever participated or lead a joint health and safety committee meeting? If the answer is yes, tell
me what reports you reviewed, topics you discussed, and what you did or would do if an outstanding action
item has been noted on the meeting minutes for an extended period of time.
A Answer should include the following: reports such as first aid records, accident/incident
investigations, inspections. Outstanding action items, new business, statistics and reports, training
needs. Items should identify the person responsible and a date for completion and by whom. Seek
management support if action items are being ignored, or task the committee chair or designated
person to follow up a week before the meeting to assist in getting items completed.
Q Workplace inspections are an important part of an effective safety program. Tell me how you would
perform an inspection, what do you look for, how you would prioritize addressing the hazards you observe,
how you would document the inspection and who would receive the associated report from you.
A Inspections could be performed on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, and conducted either by an
individual or with others, such as representatives of the safety committee. Some things to look for include
equipment and machinery, work processes and the work practices being used. The inspection should prioritize
the hazards identified by using a hazard/risk matrix to determine if the risk is high, moderate or low.

Intermediate Level Practitioner
QUESTIONS
Q Describe your experience in developing and implementing a new OH&S program or improving an
existing program. Describe your experience, any gaps that were identified, and steps taken for improvements.
A A first step in developing a program is to recognize the gaps that need to be addressed, such as
those in existing procedures, processes and practices. Engaging front-line workers is critical during
development. Consultation with stakeholders including joint health and safety committees must occur
at milestones or critical decision points.
Q Think of a real example where you performed a safety audit or an inspection. Describe how you used the
information that was collected and how you analyzed it. Describe any changes that were implemented.
A This question will provide some insight into the candidate’s critical thinking capabilities. The
candidate should discuss how they analyze information to determine trends, breakdowns in processes
or other deficiencies in the safety program. They should be able to give examples of instances where
their analysis led to changes and include an explanation as to what was changed (e.g., new training,
additional inspections, increased involvement by managers and simplification of a procedure). The
candidate should also be able to discuss how they communicated the findings to management and
employees (e.g., “I used the information as a way to interact with employees to keep safety in the
front of their minds” or “I would celebrate our successes with them and ask for their input on ways to
improve our performance”).
Q Describe a situation where an issue of non-compliance was brought to your attention. What were the
circumstances? What was the outcome? Specifically, what was your role in the outcome?
A A safety practitioner must be able to objectively assess current processes, practices and procedures to
see if they meet the applicable requirements. If there are gaps identified, action must be taken to address
those gaps and ensure compliance is achieved. If changes are made to current processes, practices or
procedures, they need to be communicated to the appropriate people.
Q Describe an accident investigation that you have conducted. What was the focus of your investigation?
A Accident investigations should not be fault-finding expeditions, but rather focus on identification of
underlying causes. The investigation should be an opportunity to collect facts surrounding the accident
and discuss contributing factors beyond the action of the employee that resulted in an accident so that
in the future the accident can be prevented.
Q Describe a safety training program that you have designed, developed or delivered. What strategies did
you take into consideration to increase student engagement and overall learning?
A The training should be developed to focus on the target audience, with due consideration given to
education, skill level and language comprehension. Strategies could include different types of learning
activities, media, group work, scenario practice, questions, demonstrations, role play and interactive games.

Manager and Director/Executive Level
QUESTIONS
Manager– OH&S
Pose questions that will enable recognition of OH&S principles and theories at a management level
Director/Executive – OH&S
Pose questions that elicit examples of strategic thinking and knowledge of principles associated
with OH&S-minded executives
TRAINING
Q Describe a training initiative in which you played a role. Outline your role and describe the objectives of
the training and how they were met.
A Assess if the candidate demonstrated knowledge, skill and ability that contained the following concepts:
Successful training can be verified through material evaluation, workplace observation, and competency
assessment as part of the overall work task and through incident review. Training records should be
maintained, either in a database, on a spreadsheet or in a common file.
Q Describe the management of change component contained in the ISO 45001 and CSA Z1000 safety
management system standards. Provide an example of how you have applied these management of change
requirements in managing health and safety in the workplace.
A Did the candidate demonstrate knowledge, skill and ability that contained the following concepts:
The management of change component is intended to ensure that a process is in place to evaluate the
impact on health and safety as a result that could occur as a result of any permanent or temporary
changes (e.g., new products, work processes, equipment, procedures, staffing, information about hazards
and OH&S risks, technology, or legal requirements).

UNDERSTANDING
• BUSINESS • BUSINESS ACUMEN
• SAFETY CULTURE • STRATEGIC THINKING
Q There are many ways to influence and promote the concept that “safety is good business”. In your role
as a safety practitioner, provide an example of how you contributed to improving the safety culture in your
workplace. Be specific (your role, the approach taken, the goal, and the actual outcomes that reflected an
improved safety culture).
A The candidate should demonstrate knowledge, skill and abilities that contain the following concepts:
It is critical for an organization to understand that “safety is good business”. For this to occur, there
needs to be commitment from senior leadership and it needs to be communicated through and
integrated into the overall purpose, vision and goals of the organization, including the metrics used by
the organization (scorecard) and accountability of the senior leadership team. Generally, the framework
established should support the broader vision and focus on prevention. Specifically, an organization
must be able to learn from incidents that have occurred (within their organization or their business
sector), be prepared to take appropriate action, make changes to prevent a similar incident from
reoccurring (that may include incurring cost for change), and ensure transparency to all audiences in
their path toward continuous improvement. Organizations must support and value the engagement
of those doing the work and empower them to bring forward concerns, take action within their realm
of responsibility and communicate (report) concerns, safety infractions, and near misses to their
managers. Managers need to have clarity on their role as front-line prevention, recognize risks, ensure
appropriate controls and identify for mitigation of any gaps. Managers need to identify the level of
support and direction that is needed to provide employees with a safe and healthy workplace.

SAFETY MANAGEMENT/RISK MANAGEMENT
Q This is a two-part question: 1.) overall knowledge 2.) actual work experience. With which safety
management systems standards are you familiar with? Which safety management systems standards do you
have experience with in the workplace, and how were they used?
A Answer for Part 1: The candidate could list ANY of the following: CSA Z1000, ISO 45001, ANSI/
ASSP/AIHA Z10, OHSAS 18001.
Answer for Part 2: The candidate should be able to demonstrate knowledge, skill and abilities that
contain some or all of the following concepts: Safety management systems provide a comprehensive
framework for managing safety risks. A safety management system provides for goal setting, planning,
and measuring performance, and is woven into the fabric of an organization. It becomes part of the way
people work.
Q How did you know if the management system you worked with was effective or not?
Management systems are designed to manage risk. An effective risk management system will be evident
in an organization where decisions (at all levels) are based on an understanding and consideration of
risks and the programs, policies and procedures are created to enhance safety. This includes continuously
monitoring risk levels in a manner inclusive of a variety of perspectives (at all levels), with appropriate
communication throughout the organization. An effective management system will also provide the
structure and processes necessary to provide a connection (at all levels) from performance data to
the development or changes in programs, policies and procedures and ensure evidence is available to
demonstrate compliance with the same elements.
Additionally, management system reviews provide a summary and insight of organizational risk and
provide evidence for an organization to recognize where risk tolerance has been exceeded. Further,
it allows an organization to allocate appropriate resources and align workloads with the goals of the
organization.
An effective management system results in an organization allocating resources to successfully develop
and implement action plans to mitigate environmental and occupational health and safety risks based on
trends and emerging issues.
Effective management systems create opportunities to strengthen the organization and drive HSE priorities.
Q Using a specific example from your current or past work experience, explain a process by which you
ensured that key safety hazards were identified and mitigated. (The key is to not allow the candidate to talk
in general terms, appropriately interrupting them to focus on a real life example and specific hazard(s) from
their current or past work environment.)
A hazard assessment and review process which engages key stakeholders from all levels of the
organization to identify work and task-specific risks and rank their likelihood and consequences is
critical. This process will enable prioritization of continuous improvement activities and mitigate
the identified risks. The hazard assessment process should consider past incidents, changes to work
or work areas, details from worksite inspections and consider all worker perspectives. It should be
reviewed and evaluated periodically and be validated by those knowledgeable about the specific
work, tasks and/or risks. The result should be a document that itemizes and ranks organizational
hazards that are accessible to every worker and outline enhancements of safety measures, controls, and
processes to reduce the associated risks.

Q Describe your experience in developing and implementing a new OH&S program. If you have never been
required to implement a completely new program, describe your experience in doing an audit of an existing
program, and the gaps that were identified and steps taken for improvements. Be specific.
A first step in developing a program is to assess the current state of the organization and recognize
the gaps that need to be addressed. The program should leverage existing procedures, processes and
practices and create new ones where gaps need to be closed. Engaging front-line workers is critical
during development. Gathering information on current practices and consulting with stakeholders
(including joint health and safety committees) are important at milestones or critical decision points.
Preparation should include identifying potential impacts to the organization from various perspectives,
providing viable solutions, communicating to stakeholders and ensuring the organization is prepared
(e.g., availability of tools, worker knowledge and understanding) prior to rollout.
SYNERGY
Q Think of an example where the communication and working relationship between OH&S practitioners
and other organizational functions (human resources, legal, executive management, finance, etc.) did not
always function at an optimal level in order to maximize the safety culture. Describe specific steps that you
have taken to build relationships and improve the commitment to the safety environment.
Building meaningful relationships requires these functions to work together to analyze processes to
identify leveraging opportunities, to coordinate strategic planning efforts, and to develop shared goals
and objectives. Strategic planning among these functions can sometimes be fragmented. This may
result in missed opportunities to change employee behaviour, influence managers, share tools and
technology, improve legal and regulatory compliance, boost employee morale and reduce costs.
Q As an OH&S practitioner, how have you positively contributed to the corporate social responsibility and
sustainability of your organization? Be specific.
Mounting evidence suggests incorporating the principles of corporate social responsibility and
sustainable development into organizational decision-making processes fundamentally changes the way
business is conducted. Driven by consumer and investor demand, business strategies now commonly
consider the impact of corporate activities on the environment, consumers, employees, communities
and other stakeholders. This has led to new approaches to problem solving, redefined corporate
priorities, reallocated budgets and redesigned staffing responsibilities. These changes have significant
ramifications for the management of safety and OH&S. Several key indicators are included as part of
the leading global sustainability indices. OH&S practitioners must drive safety sustainability efforts
by ensuring their organizations recognize the health, safety and well-being of workers, customers and
neighbouring communities are among the primary considerations in all business practices, operations
or development. OH&S practitioners need a good working knowledge of environmental issues related
to sustainability, key sustainability metrics and the key drivers of sustainability.

BUSINESS ACUMEN
Q Provide a specific example of how you integrate safety into the day-to-day operations of your business.
The important point here is that safety should be viewed as an integral part of day-to-day operations
rather than a separate program managed by the safety department. It is not enough to simply develop
a safety program; a well thought-out implementation strategy is critical. The safety department should
work closely with the various business groups or departments to ensure that safety is woven into their
regular job related inspections’ training and metrics.
Q In preparation for the interview, candidates are asked to develop a presentation that would summarize:
How the candidate has assessed and controlled a hazard (chosen by the candidate)
Identify the steps and considerations to develop an OH&S program for a particular topic (candidate selects
the topic), e.g., hearing conservation, working at heights, PPE, etc.
How the candidate is expected to deliver training as part of the job duties (i.e., a potential presentation
option would be to have the candidate present a basic training topic that they have selected and defined,
along with the target audience for the training. The interview panel would assess the presentation based on
the criteria outlined under the training topic listed earlier in this document.
A Candidates will be expected to discuss their solutions in a presentation to the interviewers.
PROBLEM SOLVING
Q Many places of employment have varying degrees of voluntary compliance with safety procedures.
Describe a time when you discovered one or more employees were only complying when they knew you were
present (e.g., wearing PPE, having a guard on the saw, etc.). How did you handle that situation? What
was the final outcome?
The candidate’s response should include ensuring that all non-compliant behaviour is corrected.
Additionally, the candidate should review the need for discussion with the manager to ensure they
are aware of the compliance concerns and that employees may be accepting risk for themselves or
co-workers that is not acceptable for the organization. The candidate should be sensitive to informers
being ostracized by co-workers if the details of the report were made public. An approach may
be to recommend to the manager (candidate offering support as appropriate) to have a group or
department meeting to remind employees of their safety-related responsibilities and the expectations
of the organization. Address the immediate concerns and non-compliance first and then determine
all contributing factors and/or barriers to compliance. Engage front-line personnel to confirm there
is clarity on expectations of the organization, discuss any perceived barriers to compliance and foster
strategies to empower them to provide potential solutions. Maintain transparency with all employees
on all efforts to ensure risk is managed within the organization and on potential solutions, the factors
required for acceptance and, finally, on all decisions made to strengthen compliant behaviour.

INVESTIGATIONS, INSPECTIONS AND AUDITS
Q If you have never been required to implement a completely new program, describe the approach you took
to undertake an audit of an existing safety program. Explain your overall approach to the audit, including
preparation, conducting the actual on-site audit, processes for identifying deficiencies, communicating the
audit findings, and a follow-up action plan. Please be specific.
The candidate’s responses should include information about the scope, date, personnel conducting the
audit, audit plan, and initial documents to be reviewed during the planning stage. Regarding the actual
on-site audit, information should be provided regarding worker and supervisor interviews, use of audit
checklists, observing work practices, and documenting non-compliance.
When communicating the audit findings, the candidate’s response should include the identification
of the appropriate senior management personnel to receive the audit results, explanation of both the
quantitative and qualitative findings, and comparison with any past audit results. Information relating
to the audit follow-up should include a plan to ensure that any non-compliance issues are addressed,
and acting on any continual improvement opportunities identified.
Q Describe a safety audit you performed and its outcomes.

Audit results help: determine the effectiveness, efficiency and reliability of an OH&S management
system; identify continuous improvement opportunities and ensure relevant OH&S standards/
regulations and other compliance requirements from a third-party perspective; and provide evidence of
due diligence.
Q Describe a situation where an issue of non-compliance was brought to your attention. What were the
circumstances and the outcomes? Specifically, what was your role in the outcomes?
(Editorial comment: If the candidate has never had a non-compliance issue in their safety role, that in
itself is a statement regarding the level and extent of their experience.)
An OH&S practitioner must be open-minded and able to understand the situation and potential
root causes. This will help them to provide appropriate guidance and direction, ensure controls are
adequately in place, and build trust. Initially, the OH&S practitioner must verify information and
ensure a thorough understanding of the conditions. Communications must be clear, expectations
met and employee safety assured. If the solution is local, sharing the learning and mitigation steps
may be enough. If there is potential for a broader systemic solution, then adoption of the immediate
solution as an interim control is appropriate. Further communication of expectations and development
of a suitable action plan to address sustainable systemic solution becomes a viable option. After
addressing immediate safety concerns, the OH&S practitioner must ensure local management is aware
and engaged in the development of all solutions to mitigate non-compliance. Although the OH&S
practitioner is a critical member of the team, overall accountability remains with the manager to ensure
compliance and to manage overall risk.

ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION
Q Outline and describe an accident investigation you have performed. What was the focus of your
investigation? Follow-up question: Have you ever performed an accident investigation where an
individual admitted fault upfront? What was the outcome of that investigation?
Accident investigations should not be fault-finding expeditions, but provide an opportunity to focus
on identification of root causes. The investigation should collect facts surrounding the accident and
discuss contributing factors beyond the action of the employee that resulted in the accident. Even
when workers openly assume blame for making a mistake or not following procedures, the investigator
must ensure all contributing causes have been identified. The error may not be the most important
contributing cause.
Q Provide an example of a root cause as a result of an investigation you were aware of or have done. As
part of the explanation, include actual or possible corrective actions as a result of the finding.
Candidates should provide an actual example of a root cause and explain why it may have contributed
to the accident. Additionally, the candidate must provide a corrective action plan and explain how it
would contribute to continuous improvement and reduction of workplace accidents.
Example: An employee admitted they did not follow procedures
Root Cause: Based on the discussion with the employee and the review of the procedure, it was evident
the procedure was long and complex and difficult for the employee to know the difference between
reference material and critical steps
Corrective Action: 1) Revise the procedure to only include critical steps and separate reference material
and identify it accordingly. 2) Train employees, including managers, on the revised procedure.
3) Conduct workplace observations to ensure procedure is understood and performed correctly
4) Include procedure in annual audit to capture effective management of change
Example: An employee admitted they did not wear the PPE
Root Cause: Based on discussion with the employee and review of the required PPE, it was determined
employees cannot easily obtain additional PPE due to warehouse restrictions
Corrective Action: 1) Determine a process that satisfies management about access to warehouse items
and provides allotment for employees in supplying PPE. 2) Provide information to all applicable
employees on the new PPE distribution. 3) Conduct workplace observation of PPE used and available.
4) Warehouse to conduct cost comparison of new process to ensure sustainability of the solution.

METRICS
Q What is your experience with the use of metrics? Provide examples of some of the leading and lagging
indicators from your current or past employment, and how you made use of them in your analysis.
Lagging indicators measure a company’s incidents through accident statistics. Lagging indicators are
the traditional safety metrics used to indicate progress toward compliance. They assist in evaluating
the overall effectiveness of safety and provide information on how many people were injured and how
badly. Examples include: injury frequency and severity, lost work days, worker’s compensation costs,
etc. Leading indicators are measures preceding an event used to drive and measure activities carried
out to prevent and control injury. Leading indicators are focused on future safety performance and
continuous improvement. These measures are proactive in nature and report what employees are doing
on a regular basis to prevent injuries. Examples include: safety training, safety-specific (e.g., ergonomic)
opportunities are identified and corrected, reduction of risk, employee perception surveys, inspections
or audits are completed, audit recommendations or corrective actions are closed out on time, employees
are trained or training units/hour are completed, safety committee meetings are held.
Q Describe some of the performance measurements that you have used to evaluate your safety program.
How did you use them and what types of improvements came out of your analysis?
Measurement forms the basis for continuous improvement specific to safety performance. It is an
effective tool in determining the current state of an organization and can be easily compared to
previous performance, other organizations within your sector and in setting achievable goals and
objectives. Lastly, it can be translated into performance metrics and communicated to non-OH&S
persons within the organization.
It is critical to ensure safety performance metrics are a combination of both the bottom-line results of
safety (lagging indicators) and how the facility is doing at preventing accidents and incidents (leading
indicators).
Q Have you performed trending analysis on leading and/or lagging indicators for the purpose of turning
that data into information? Provide an example and describe the outcome.
Follow-up question – if the candidate says they have not performed trending analysis, ask: Describe your
understanding of trending analysis on leading and/or lagging indicators and how that data may be used
effectively (e.g., from the candidate’s knowledge during training).
Having a discussion on the process of turning data into information allows a candidate to provide
a perspective on the role of OH&S within an organization and how data can be significant for
stakeholders.
Examples of trending analysis translating to information could include:
Slips, trips and falls incident information - leverage for season-appropriate training, ratification of slip
resistant soles on work boots
Vehicle incidents (trending on first and last portion of trip) - incorporating an attentive driver
component in driver training, install computer locks for in-vehicle computers
Strains/sprains - leads to introduction to an industrial ergonomic training, task analysis, physical
demand analysis

COMMUNICATION, MOTIVATION AND AWARENESS
Q Describe your experience in the use of risk communication in order to de-escalate how an organization
was reacting to an incident.
This will focus on the candidate’s ability to influence stakeholders (operations, human resources, etc.)
to be engaged and empowered to manage risks that impact their employees. It should highlight the
importance of de-escalation techniques that support the impact of risk management and a systematic
approach to reducing risk based on OH&S-related risks, prioritizing workload and resource planning.
It provides an opportunity to identify risk tolerance as a significant contributor to work within an
organization and highlight the motivation for other functional operational departments to accept
accountability for mitigating their risk through development and implementation of controls. This
allows the interviewer to recognize the tolerance of the individual to assist in aligning with the accepted
tolerance of an organization.
Q Provide a specific example of your approach to keep your organization’s employees engaged with
the safety program?
Some possible answers include:
Keeping employees informed with regular communication vehicles (e.g., safety/toolbox talks, one-on-
one coaching, involvement in safety committees or teams)
Collaborating broadly with employees on decisions relating to overall OH&S management plan (e.g.,
how to develop training)
Ensure employee input is determined and included in all regular safety activities (e.g., perform safety
inspections, conduct safety training, or lead a conversation specific to an incident in which they were
involved)
Remind employees of the importance of safety and the central role they play in maintaining a safe
workplace, i.e., shared responsibility
Q Provide examples of the techniques or strategies you have used to get workers “on board”
(e.g., monitoring, programs, use of PPE, etc.)?
The OH&S candidate can discuss the importance of building/establishing trust through:
Sharing information
Being transparent
Active listening to understand concerns
Committing to action
Following through on actions

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The first edition of the Hiring Guide was released in September 2015 with the support of many
individuals and organizations. The development of the first edition of the Hiring Guide was an
investment of an enormous amount of research, time, effort and dedication by a volunteer group of
CSSE members. It was through the hard work of Thomas Abercrombie, Bridget Gilmour, Bruce
Jackson, Robert Montgomery, Marcia Simpson and Tanya Steele that the original guide was developed.
Since its publication, the Hiring Guide has been used by employers, CSSE members, human
resource and vocational rehabilitation professionals, students and individuals looking to develop a
career path through the profession. It is also provided to all employers posting a job to the CSSE
website. This Guide has proven to be an invaluable resource to many and is helping shape the safety
profession in Canada.
I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank Bruce Jackson and Mona Cheng for
volunteering their time, energy and expertise in producing this updated Third Edition, to ensure that
the content is current and relevant.
Kathy Tull, President,

REFERENCES
• American Board of Industrial Hygiene • Canadian Registration Board of Occupational Hygienists

www.abih.org www.crboh.ca
• American Society for Quality • Canadian Society of Safety Engineering
www.asq.org www.csse.org
• Applied Science Technologists and • Institute for Credentialing Excellence
Technicians of BC (ASTTBC) www.credentialingexcellence.org
cso.asttbc.org • Institute for Safety and Health Management
• Auditing Association of Canada www.ishm.org
www.auditingcanada.com • Institute of Hazardous Materials Management
• Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals www.ihmm.org
www.bcrsp.org • Institute of Internal Auditors
• Board of Certified Safety Professionals na.theiia.org
www.bcsp.org • Institution of Occupational Safety and Health
• Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety www.iosh.co.uk
www.ccohs.ca • International Accreditation Forum
• Canadian College for the Certification of www.iaf.nu
Professional Ergonomists • International Network of Safety & Health
www.cccpe.ca Practitioner Organisations
• Canadian Construction Association www.inshpo.org
www.goldsealcertification.com/safety-coordinator • International Organization for Standardization
• Canadian Federation of Construction www.iso.org
Safety Associations • National Commission for Certifying Agencies
www.cfcsa.ca www.credentialingexcellence.org/ncca
• Canadian Nurses Association • New Brunswick Construction Safety Association
www.cna-aiic.ca
www.nbcsa.ca
• Council of Engineering and Scientific Specialty Boards
www.cesb.org • Safety Institute of Australia
www.sia.org.au/certification
For more information or questions about this document, please contact the CSSE at www.csse.org

ABOUT THE CSSE
The Canadian Society of Safety Engineering (CSSE) is the leading organization for health, safety
and environmental professionals in Canada. We work with industry, governmental agencies, and
other safety organizations to promote a greater awareness of health, safety, and environmental issues
in workplaces and communities across the nation and around the world. Our vision is to shape the
safety profession in Canada by working collaboratively with our members and partners.
We will:
• Define the safety profession
• Provide timely and relevant safety information
• Develop safety professionals
• Be recognized as an objective voice for excellence in safety
in workplaces and communities
Our mission is to be the resource for professional development, knowledge and information exchange
to our members, our profession and the Canadian public. CSSE was founded in 1949 by a small
group of dedicated individuals drawn together in the common interest of accident prevention. It
has grown from a provincially-based organization to become Canada’s largest national and most
established professional organization for health and safety practitioners. Today, we have 5,000
members across Canada, the United States, and around the world, working together to enhance the
occupational health and safety profession.
© Canadian Society of Safety Engineering

468 Queen Street East, Suite LL-02
Toronto, Ontario M5A 1T7
Tel.: 416-646-1600
www.csse.org
Third Edition
September 2018

csse.org
CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications 468
& Designations 61
Queen Street East, LL-02, Toronto, A Guide for Employers and OH&S Practitioners
ON M5A 1T7

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CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

© Canadian Society of Safety Engineering

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

Communicates predominantly with middle Influences senior managers, building

Oversees and drives monitoring and Develops monitoring systems. Involved

Supports safe working environment by Considers wider context of business

Advice/action based on technical Advice/action based on conceptual and

Usually educated through vocational or Usually educated through university or

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

SAFETY CERTIFICATIONS SAFETY DESIGNATIONS

work experience is required work experience may be

mandatory programs are mandatory programs rarely

capability assesement capability assesement mechanism

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

NOTE: For the purposes of this guide, Canadian Safety Certifications

International Safety Certifications

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

ACRONYM CERTIFICATION PAGE

CCPE Canadian Certified Professional Ergonomist 13

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

Accreditation International Ergonomics Association

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

Eligibility Varies with educational background:

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

Certification CRSP® Canadian Registered Safety Professional/

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

Certification CRST Canadian Registered Safety Technician

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

ACRONYM DESIGNATION PAGE

CSC Construction Safety Coordinator 22

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

Certification None specified

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

Certification None specified.

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

CET® Certified Environmental, Safety and Health Trainer 27

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

Minimum of a four-year bachelor’s degree from a regionally-accredited college or university in biology,

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

Certification Must participate in a mandatory CPD program.

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations

Certification Certificants are responsible for:

CSSE Guide to OH&S Certifications & Designations