Certified Safety Professional Education Requirements and Career Info
A certified safety professional assesses potential hazards and applies countermeasures to minimize accidents that may harm people, property and the environment. They are educated in various physical, biological and chemical dangers. Knowledge in math, engineering concepts, behavioral sciences, construction, manufacturing and business are essential to a career in safety. Being certified as a safety professional ensures that an individual has met specified educational and experience standards.
Education Requirements for Certified Safety Professionals
The minimum educational requirement to become a certified safety professional is a 2-year college degree in safety and health; however, many employers require a bachelor's degree in occupational health and safety or a closely related field. Master's degrees related to occupational safety are also available.
Those seeking specialization in a particular safety field may pursue additional education in the form of on-the-job training or classroom instruction. Common safety courses include topics such as occupational safety and health standards, risk analysis, safety technology, safety inspections, accident investigations and safety laws.
Earning Safety Professional Certification
To receive the credential of Certified Safety Professional (CSP), an individual must meet an educational requirement, have at least three years of experience working as a safety professional and pass two comprehensive exams. The required exams test an individual's knowledge of safety fundamentals and practical applications. This nationally accredited certification is offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (www.bcsp.org).
Following the certification process, individuals must pay an annual fee and meet various continuing education requirements to maintain their status as certified safety professionals. Recertification is typically required every five years.
Certified Safety Professional Career Info
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for occupational health and safety specialists were expected to increase by 11% between 2008-2018. Safety professionals earned a median annual wage of $62,250 as of May 2008 (www.bls.gov).
Individuals with broad educational backgrounds or graduate degrees may have expanded career prospects. In addition, certified safety professionals are required to be detail-oriented and responsible so that they can quickly note potential hazards and prepare to resolve them. Good communication skills are also necessary to excel and advance in this career.
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