Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Certifications

Explore the top Occupational Health and Safety Specialist certifications that are important to a successful career.

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Getting Certified as a Occupational Health and Safety Specialist

As the field of Occupational Health and Safety continues to grow in importance within various industries, obtaining certifications becomes a crucial step in validating your expertise and enhancing your professional credibility. For both aspiring and seasoned Occupational Health and Safety Specialists, certifications provide a structured pathway to acquire and demonstrate critical knowledge, from regulatory compliance to risk management.

This guide is designed to help you navigate the diverse certification landscape, aligning your choices with your career goals and the specific needs of the occupational health and safety sector. Whether you're just beginning your journey or aiming to deepen your proficiency, understanding the significance and benefits of these certifications is essential for a successful career in this vital field.

Top Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Certifications

Certified Safety Professional (CSP)
Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP)
Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)
National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. (NCHEC)
Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional - International (CCEP-I)
Compliance Certification Board (CCB)
Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS)
Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS)
Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP)
Association of Change Management Professionals (ACMP)
Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE)
American Society for Quality (ASQ)
Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)
APICS (Association for Supply Chain Management)
Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)
Institute for Supply Management
Project Management Professional (PMP)
Project Management Institute (PMI)

Best Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Certifications

Certified Safety Professional (CSP)

Certification Provider
Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP)
Best For
Safety Manager, Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Director, Occupational Health and Safety Specialist, Industrial Hygienist, Risk Management Consultant, Safety Engineer with 4+ years of experience
Description
The Certified Safety Professional (CSP) certification, offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP), is a globally recognized credential for individuals who demonstrate expertise in workplace safety and health. This certification focuses on advanced knowledge of safety concepts, practices, and management, as well as environmental protection. To earn the CSP, candidates must meet eligibility criteria, pass a comprehensive examination, and commit to ongoing professional development. It is designed for those seeking to establish a high level of proficiency and leadership in the occupational safety field.
Includes Certification
Yes
Time to Complete
Price
Prerequisites
  • Bachelor's degree in any field from an accredited institution, or an associate degree in safety, health, or the environment, or a closely related field.
  • Minimum of four years of professional safety experience where safety is at least 50%, preventative, professional level with breadth and depth of safety duties.
  • Passing the Associate Safety Professional (ASP) exam or holding a Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) approved credential.
  • Agreement to adhere to the BCSP Code of Ethics.
  • Submission of a completed application with fees for the CSP examination.
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development and recertification requirements every five years.

    • Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)

    Certification Provider
    National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. (NCHEC)
    Best For
    Health Education Specialist, Public Health Educator, Community Health Coordinator, Health Promotion Program Coordinator, School Health Educator, Corporate Wellness Consultant
    Description
    The Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) certification, offered by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. (NCHEC), is a credential that signifies a professional's expertise in designing, conducting, and evaluating health education programs. It focuses on enhancing public health through effective education strategies and requires passing a competency-based examination. CHES certification is ideal for individuals aiming to establish credibility and advance their career in health education and promotion.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution of higher education.
  • Completion of a major course of study in health education or a significant amount of coursework related to the Seven Areas of Responsibility of Health Education Specialists.
  • Official transcripts sent directly from the college or university to the NCHEC.
  • Passing the CHES examination, which assesses knowledge and skills in the Seven Areas of Responsibility for Health Education Specialists.
  • Agreement to adhere to the NCHEC Code of Ethics for Health Education Specialists.
  • For those who do not meet the academic qualifications, a current resume and a detailed job description may be required to demonstrate eligibility through work experience in the health education field.

    • Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional - International (CCEP-I)

    Certification Provider
    Compliance Certification Board (CCB)
    Best For
    Compliance Officers, Ethics Program Managers, International Regulatory Affairs Specialists, Corporate Compliance Lawyers, Senior Compliance Analysts, Risk Management Consultants
    Description
    The Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional - International (CCEP-I) credential, offered by the Compliance Certification Board (CCB), is a globally recognized certification for compliance professionals operating across international boundaries. It validates an individual's expertise in managing compliance responsibilities, understanding and applying international compliance laws, and promoting ethical practices within organizations. Candidates must pass an examination that covers international compliance standards, risk assessment, and effective compliance program development and management. This certification is ideal for professionals seeking to enhance their credibility and advance their careers in the global compliance field.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A minimum of 1,500 hours of direct compliance and ethics duties within the last 12 months prior to applying for the exam.
  • A bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited university, which can reduce the required hours of work experience to 1,000 within the last 12 months.
  • Completion of 20 hours of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in compliance and ethics, 10 of which may come from job experience, within the last 12 months before applying for the exam.
  • Agreement to adhere to the CCB Code of Ethics.
  • Submission of an application with the appropriate fee to the Compliance Certification Board (CCB).
  • Passing the CCEP-I examination.

    • Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS)

    Certification Provider
    Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS)
    Best For
    Healthcare IT Managers, Clinical Informatics Specialists, Health Information Managers, Medical Records System Administrators, Health IT Project Managers, Healthcare Systems Analysts
    Description
    The Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS) is a globally recognized credential that validates an individual's expertise in healthcare information and management systems. Offered by the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS), this certification demonstrates a professional's ability to facilitate the improvement of healthcare delivery through the effective management of healthcare information and technology. Candidates must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as healthcare and technology environments, systems lifecycle management, and administration leadership. CPHIMS is ideal for professionals seeking to advance their careers in health IT and informatics.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution, plus five (5) years of associated information and management systems experience\*, with three (3) of those years in a healthcare setting.
  • Without a bachelor’s degree, candidates must have at least ten (10) years of associated information and management systems experience, with five (5) of those years in a healthcare setting.
  • For those holding a job that is not fully dedicated to healthcare (e.g., IT professionals working in a healthcare setting), at least 50% of job responsibilities must be focused on the healthcare environment to qualify.
  • Agreement to adhere to the HIMSS Code of Ethics.
  • Completion of the CPHIMS examination with a passing score.
  • Maintenance of certification through continuing education; candidates must earn 60 continuing education hours in health IT every three years to renew the certification.

    • Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP)

    Certification Provider
    Association of Change Management Professionals (ACMP)
    Best For
    Change Management Consultants, Organizational Development Specialists, Project Managers with change management responsibilities, Human Resources Professionals involved in organizational change, Business Transformation Managers, Senior Executives overseeing change initiatives
    Description
    The Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP) is a globally recognized credential offered by the Association of Change Management Professionals (ACMP). This certification is designed for individuals specializing in change management who wish to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to the discipline. It focuses on validating a candidate's knowledge of ACMP's Standard for Change Management© and their ability to apply best practices in initiating, managing, and sustaining change in organizations. Obtaining the CCMP requires meeting specific educational and professional experience criteria, as well as passing a comprehensive exam.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    $595
    Prerequisites
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and a minimum of 3 years (4200 hours) of change management experience within the last 7 years
  • Secondary education (high school diploma, associate’s degree or global equivalent) and a minimum of 5 years (7000 hours) of change management experience within the last 7 years
  • Completion of 21 hours of instructor-led change management training aligned with the ACMP’s Standard for Change Management© within the last 7 years
  • Agreement to adhere to the ACMP Code of Ethics
  • Completion and submission of the CCMP application and payment of the application fee
  • Passing the CCMP examination

    • Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE)

    Certification Provider
    American Society for Quality (ASQ)
    Best For
    Quality Managers, Organizational Excellence Leaders, Senior Process Engineers, Operations Managers, Continuous Improvement Managers, Quality Management System Consultants
    Description
    The Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) is a professional credential that signifies a mastery of the principles of quality management and proficiency in leading organizational improvements. It covers a broad range of topics, including strategic management, quality systems, product and process design, and measurement. This certification is ideal for managers and leaders seeking to enhance their organization's performance, ensure customer satisfaction, and drive operational excellence. Candidates must pass a comprehensive exam and meet experience requirements to obtain the CMQ/OE certification.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A minimum of 10 years of work experience in one or more areas of the Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence Body of Knowledge.
  • At least five years of this experience must be in a decision-making position, defined as the authority to define, execute, or control projects/processes and to be responsible for the outcome.
  • A completed degree from a college, university, or technical school with accreditation accepted by ASQ, which part of the 10-year experience requirement is waived.
  • For candidates who hold a Diploma (high school), an Associate degree, a Bachelor’s degree, a Master’s or Doctorate, the number of years waived from the professional experience requirement are 1, 2, 4, and 5 years respectively.
  • Passing the CMQ/OE examination, which consists of multiple-choice questions that measure comprehension of the Body of Knowledge.
  • Maintaining the certification through recertification, which requires 18 recertification units (RUs) every three years or retaking the examination.

    • Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

    Certification Provider
    APICS (Association for Supply Chain Management)
    Best For
    Supply Chain Manager, Inventory Control Manager, Production Planner, Materials Manager, Operations Manager, Demand Planner
    Description
    The Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) credential, offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (APICS), is a prestigious certification for professionals in the production and inventory management sector. It focuses on imparting essential knowledge in demand management, procurement, supply chain dynamics, and operations management. Earning the CPIM demonstrates expertise in streamlining operations, improving production scheduling, and optimizing resource management, making certificate holders valuable assets in the global supply chain industry. The certification process involves rigorous coursework and exams, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices that drive efficient production and inventory management.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    300-400 hours
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required; a bachelor’s degree is recommended but not mandatory.
  • Membership in APICS is recommended to receive member discounts on study materials and exams but is not a requirement.
  • No specific work experience is required, but it is beneficial to have some background in production and inventory management or a related field.
  • Completion of the CPIM learning system coursework or equivalent self-study with APICS-approved educational materials.
  • Passing scores on both CPIM Part 1 and CPIM Part 2 exams.
  • Maintenance of certification through the accumulation of Continuing Education points is required every five years to retain the CPIM designation.

    • Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

    Certification Provider
    Institute for Supply Management
    Best For
    Supply Chain Manager, Procurement Manager, Sourcing Specialist, Purchasing Manager, Operations Manager, Supply Chain Analyst
    Description
    The Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a prestigious certification offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) that signifies expertise in supply chain management. This certification focuses on critical areas such as sourcing, procurement, negotiation, and leadership within the supply chain. Candidates must pass rigorous exams that test their knowledge and understanding of supply management functions. Earning the CPSM demonstrates a commitment to the profession and can enhance career opportunities and advancement in the field.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A minimum of three years of full-time, professional supply management experience with a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or international equivalent.
  • Alternatively, five years of supply management experience without a bachelor's degree.
  • Successfully pass three CPSM exams, which cover various aspects of supply management.
  • Agreement to adhere to the ISM Code of Ethics.
  • Continuing education is required for recertification every three years to maintain the CPSM credential.
  • Membership with ISM is recommended but not mandatory for certification.

    • Project Management Professional (PMP)

    Certification Provider
    Project Management Institute (PMI)
    Best For
    Project Managers, Senior Project Managers, Project Coordinators, Project Analysts, Program Managers, Project Team Leaders
    Description
    The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), is a globally recognized credential for project managers. It signifies a professional’s ability to manage projects efficiently, leading to successful outcomes. The certification process assesses a candidate's understanding of key project management concepts, methodologies, and best practices, as outlined in PMI's PMBOK Guide. Earning a PMP certification requires meeting education and experience requirements, passing a rigorous exam, and committing to ongoing professional development.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    60-120 hours
    Price
    $555
    Prerequisites
  • A secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree, or the global equivalent)
  • 7,500 hours leading and directing projects
  • 35 hours of project management education, or CAPM Certification
  • Alternatively, a four-year degree
  • 4,500 hours leading and directing projects
  • 35 hours of project management education, or CAPM Certification

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    Benefits of Having a Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Certification

    In a field as critical and specialized as Occupational Health and Safety, distinguishing yourself can be as vital as your ability to ensure workplace safety. Earning a certification as an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist is not just about adding another credential to your resume; it’s about validating your expertise, enhancing your professional credibility, and deepening your understanding of safety practices. For job seekers and aspiring professionals, a certification can be the differentiator that sets you apart in the job market, equipping you with the latest skills and knowledge to excel in this essential field. Let’s explore the key benefits of obtaining an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist certification and how it can catalyze your career growth.

    Industry Recognition and Credibility: An Occupational Health and Safety Specialist certification from a reputable organization is a testament to your commitment and expertise in the field. It signals to employers and peers that you have a validated understanding of safety best practices, increasing your credibility in the industry.

    Enhanced Skill Set and Knowledge: Certifications provide structured learning on various aspects of occupational health and safety, from risk assessment to regulatory compliance. They help in filling knowledge gaps and staying updated with the latest industry standards, ensuring you have the skills to handle complex safety challenges.

    Career Advancement and Opportunities: Certifications can open doors to new career opportunities, particularly for those transitioning into occupational health and safety from different fields. They can be a significant advantage in job applications, promotions, and negotiations, demonstrating your dedication to professional development.

    Networking and Community Engagement: Many certification programs offer access to professional networks and communities. This can be invaluable for building connections, learning from industry leaders, and gaining insights into diverse safety practices.

    Building Confidence and Competence: The process of earning a certification can boost your confidence in your occupational health and safety abilities. It reassures you and potential employers of your competence to ensure workplace safety effectively, equipping you with both the theoretical and practical tools needed for success.

    How to Choose the Best Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Certification

    Choosing the right certification as an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist is a strategic decision that can significantly influence your career progression. With a multitude of certifications available, each offering distinct advantages, the key is to select one that aligns with your career goals, enhances your current skill set, and meets the specific requirements of the roles you aspire to. This section provides practical tips to help you evaluate and choose a certification that not only complements your professional experience but also propels you towards your career objectives.
    • Align with Career Goals: Consider how a certification aligns with your long-term career aspirations. If you aim to move into leadership or managerial roles, look for certifications that emphasize strategic planning, risk management, and regulatory compliance. For those focused on technical expertise, certifications that delve into specific safety protocols or hazard analysis might be more suitable.
    • Industry Relevance and Demand: Choose a certification that is relevant to current industry trends and future demands. For example, if your industry is increasingly focusing on environmental health, a certification in environmental safety could be highly beneficial. Staying updated with industry trends ensures that your skills remain relevant and in demand.
    • Accreditation and Recognition: Evaluate the accreditation of the certification program. Opt for certifications from reputable institutions or organizations recognized for their authority in occupational health and safety. This ensures that your certification is respected and valued by employers and peers in the industry.
    • Practical Experience and Networking Opportunities: Look for certifications that offer practical, hands-on experience and opportunities to network with other professionals. The ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios and connect with industry experts can be invaluable for your professional growth.
    • Feedback from Certified Professionals: Seek insights from colleagues or mentors who have completed the certifications you are considering. Their feedback on the coursework, benefits, and career impact can provide a realistic perspective, helping you make an informed decision.

    Preparing for Your Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Certification

    Preparing for an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist certification is a critical step in advancing your career and ensuring you have the knowledge and skills to create safer work environments. The certification process can be rigorous, but with strategic preparation and a clear focus, you can successfully navigate the journey. Here are some actionable steps to help you prepare effectively for your certification.

    Set Clear Objectives: Before you start your preparation, define what you aim to achieve with your certification. Are you looking to enhance your general knowledge of occupational health and safety, or do you want to specialize in areas such as industrial hygiene or ergonomics? Having clear objectives will help you tailor your study plan to focus on the most relevant topics and keep you motivated throughout the process.

    Create a Structured Study Plan: Develop a detailed study plan that outlines all the key areas covered in the certification curriculum. Break down the material into manageable sections and allocate specific time blocks for each topic. This structured approach will help you systematically cover the coursework without feeling overwhelmed. Be sure to include time for review sessions and practice exams to reinforce your understanding.

    Engage with the OHS Community: Interacting with other Occupational Health and Safety Specialists can provide valuable insights and support. Join study groups, participate in online forums, and attend industry webinars or workshops. Engaging with the community can help you gain different perspectives, clarify any doubts, and receive practical tips from those who have already completed the certification process.

    Utilize Quality Study Materials: Invest in high-quality study materials, such as textbooks, online courses, and practice exams. These resources are often designed to align closely with the certification exam content and can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. Additionally, consider using flashcards and summary notes to reinforce key concepts.

    Practical Application: Whenever possible, apply the concepts you're learning to real-world scenarios. This could involve conducting risk assessments, developing safety protocols, or participating in workplace safety audits. Applying theoretical knowledge to practical situations will deepen your understanding and retention of the material, making it easier to recall during the exam.

    Stay Updated on Industry Trends: The field of occupational health and safety is constantly evolving. Stay informed about the latest industry trends, regulations, and best practices by reading relevant journals, attending conferences, and following industry leaders on social media. Staying updated will not only help you in your certification exam but also in your professional practice.

    By setting clear objectives, creating a structured study plan, engaging with the OHS community, utilizing quality study materials, applying practical knowledge, and staying updated on industry trends, you can effectively prepare for your Occupational Health and Safety Specialist certification and advance your career in this vital field.

    Certification FAQs for Occupational Health and Safety Specialists

    Is getting a Occupational Health and Safety Specialist certification worth it?

    The value of an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist certification largely depends on your career stage, goals, and the specific demands of your industry. For beginners, a certification can provide essential knowledge, industry standards, and a solid understanding of safety protocols, serving as a gateway into the field. For seasoned professionals, it can help update skills, specialize in niche areas, or demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

    Additionally, certifications can enhance your credibility and make your resume more attractive to employers. In the competitive field of occupational health and safety, having a certification can be a key differentiator, especially when combined with relevant experience and skills.

    Do you need a certification to get a job as a Occupational Health and Safety Specialist?

    While a certification is not always a mandatory requirement for securing a job as an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist, it can certainly be advantageous. It can provide you with an edge in job applications, particularly if you're transitioning from a different career path or lack direct experience in occupational health and safety. Certifications can help prove your knowledge and dedication to the field, especially in cases where your work experience might not directly align with the role.

    That said, many employers value practical experience, problem-solving abilities, and a track record of success in safety-related roles as much as, if not more than, formal certifications. In many cases, a combination of relevant experience, demonstrable skills, and a certification can be the most effective way to showcase your capabilities as an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist.

    Can Occupational Health and Safety Specialist certifications help pivoters make the transition into Healthcare from another career path?

    Yes, Occupational Health and Safety Specialist certifications can be particularly beneficial for professionals looking to transition from a different career path into this field. These certifications often cover essential safety regulations, risk management practices, and industry standards, providing a solid foundation for newcomers. They can help bridge knowledge gaps and demonstrate to potential employers your commitment to acquiring the necessary skills for the role. Moreover, the networking opportunities that often come with these certification programs can be invaluable in making the career transition smoother.
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