A COMPLETE GUIDE

TO SAFETY CERTIFICATION

FIRST EDITION | MAY 2019

© 2019 Board of Certified Safety Professionals
Indianapolis, Indiana USA

All rights reserved.

A BCSP Publication

All or any part of this document may be freely copied and distributed with the
following restrictions: Excerpts, in any form or medium, must include a formal statement
acknowledging that the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) is the owner of the
copyrighted material excerpted from this document. Copies and redistributions of this
whole document, in any form or medium, must include the entire copyright notice and the
restrictions shown on this page.

BCSP is committed to impartiality and objectivity in every aspect of our operation. We have
intentionally structured ourselves to segregate responsibilities in our organization to facilitate
this impartiality and objectivity. BCSP evaluates all candidates seeking BCSP certifications
without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, pregnancy, disability, military
or veteran status, genetic predisposition, gender identity, sexual orientation, or other
characteristics protected by the law (Protected Characteristics).

This publication is not intended to guarantee that the user will pass an exam or become
certified. In general it may not cover every aspect of the certification process. Additionally, this
publication is not considered training or preparatory in any manner. BCSP makes no promises
or warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, of the actions of third party organizations.

This publication is subject to change without notice at anytime.

A Complete Guide to Safety Certification

First Edition | May 2019

DISCLAIMER
An individual’s status with BCSP is an indicator that an individual has completed a combination of defined education,
experience, and examination requirements. However, certification is not a guarantee or assurance of the competence
or ability of any particular individual. Further, given the rapid changes in the field, BCSP cannot warrant that any
examination and other certification materials will at all times reflect the most current state of the art.

BCSP disclaims liability for any personal injury, property damage or other damages of any nature whatsoever, whether
special, indirect, consequential or compensatory, directly or indirectly resulting from the certification program or the
acts or omissions of any person who has been certified by BCSP.

In conducting the certification program, including issuing certifications, BCSP is not undertaking to render professional
or other services for or on behalf of any person or entity, nor is BCSP undertaking to perform any duty owed by
any person or entity to someone else. Anyone using the services of a person who has been certified should rely on
his or her own independent judgment as appropriate in determining the exercise of reasonable care in any given
circumstances.
TABLE OF CONTENTS

ABOUT BCSP 1

CHAPTER 1 | INTRODUCTION 2

CHAPTER 2 | CERTIFICATION SUMMARY 4

CHAPTER 3 | APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS 6

CHAPTER 4 | PREPARING FOR THE EXAM 8

CHAPTER 5 | EXAM OVERVIEW 11

CHAPTER 6 | AFTER ACHIEVING CERTIFICATION 13

CHAPTER 7 | CERTIFICATIONS 19

CHAPTER 8 | DESIGNATIONS 30

CODE OF ETHICS 37
 S

Setting the Standard,

Growing the Safety Culture.

MISSION
BCSP sets and certifies technical competency criteria for safety,
health, and environmental practitioners worldwide; enhancing careers,
advancing the profession, protecting the public.

VISION
Creating a safer world through safety, health,
and environmental certification.

4
ABOUT BCSP
Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, BCSP is a not-for-profit corporation recognized
as a leader in high-quality, accredited credentialing for safety, health, and environmental
(SH&E) practitioners. BCSP establishes standards and certifies competency criteria in
professional safety practice. Since 1969, over 100,000 of BCSP’s credentials have
been achieved.

ACCREDITATION
AND RECOGNITION
ISO/IEC 17024
BCSP’s certifications are accredited by the American National
Personnel Certification Program
#0646
Standard Institute (ANSI), an independent third-party organization
that evaluates certification program and organization requirements
on a regular basis. Visit ansi.org to learn more about accreditation.

BCSP has been granted special consultative status with the United
Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) since 2014.

CERTIFICATIONS
CERTIFIED SAFETY CONSTRUCTION HEALTH
PROFESSIONAL® (CSP®) AND SAFETY TECHNICIAN® (CHST®)
The premier certification in the safety profession, Offers a certification for individuals who work
covering a wide range of safety, health, and in a construction craft or are construction
environmental (SH&E) practice disciplines. safety specialists.

SAFETY MANAGEMENT SAFETY TRAINED SUPERVISOR® (STS®)

SPECIALIST (SMS) Provides a quality certification for work group
Demonstrates management skills required for an
organization’s safe operation, including defining
HAPPY
leaders in various industries who are responsible
for the safety and health of their workers.
and utilizing safety management systems.
ANNIVERSARY
SAFETY TRAINED SUPERVISOR
ASSOCIATE SAFETY CONSTRUCTION® (STSC®)
PROFESSIONAL® (ASP®) Holds the same requirements and benefits
Demonstrates a broad scope of knowledge as the Safety Trained Supervisor certification but
in SH&E practice and serves as one of several provides a quality certification for work group
qualifying credentials required for the CSP. leaders working specifically in construction.

OCCUPATIONAL HYGIENE CERTIFIED INSTRUCTIONAL
AND SAFETY TECHNICIAN® (OHST®) TRAINER (CIT)
Provides practitioners with partial responsibility or Certifies those who have experience
oversight in SH&E with a high quality certification. and expertise in developing, designing,
and delivering SH&E training.

1
 CHAPTER 1 | INTRODUCTION

BCSP CERTIFICATIONS and rules in this guide will help you

BCSP awards professional safety navigate your path to your certification.
certifications to individuals who Visit bcsp.org and click on My Profile
demonstrate knowledge and work in to create an account and apply for
a professional position where safety your desired certification(s). If you need
is a vital role, such as safety program further assistance you may contact the
development and risk assessment Certification Services Department at
devoted to the prevention of harm to +1 317-593-4800 or by email
individuals in the workplace environment. at [email protected].
Whether your career goals include
seeking a new position, moving up in
your current organization, or moving
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
to private practice, you can accelerate
For the most current version of this
your opportunities by achieving BCSP
publication, please visit bcsp.org.
certifications. You can improve your
chances for success, being selected
As a candidate or certificant you are solely
for leadership and senior positions,
responsible to keep BCSP informed of
and increase salary through BCSP
your current mail and email address. If
safety credentials. BCSP offers you the
either address changes, you must make
opportunity to rise above the competition
changes through My Profile or notify
by adding a certification to your portfolio.
BCSP’s Certification Services department.
You could lose your credential or eligibility
status if you miss important notifications
PURPOSE OF THIS GUIDE
related to your credential.
The purpose of this guide is to walk you
through the process of applying for and
taking the examination leading to a BCSP
certification. This guide is the first step to
help you achieve a credential.

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

This guide provides you with in-depth
information regarding the application
process, examination process, and the
rules and procedures essential in retaining
a BCSP certification after you achieve it.
Reading and following the suggestions

2
THE CERTIFICATION PROCESS
All BCSP certifications are different but the process is the same for all certifications.
Below is the process at-a-glance which will be explained in more detail in the next chapter.

Pick a Certification
Pick a certification that is right for YOU

Determine Eligibility
Education and work experience

Submit Application
Apply online

Purchase Your Exam

Anytime during the one-year eligibility period

Schedule Your Exam

At your nearest Pearson VUE testing center

Sit For Your Exam

Pass the exam during the one-year eligibility period

Maintain Certification
Annual renewal fee and five (5) year recertification cycle

33
 CHAPTER 2 | CERTIFICATION SUMMARY

all requirements in order to be made

Pick a Certification eligible to sit for the desired examination.
Whether you are in safety management, Eligibility is for a one-year period. More
manufacturing, public safety, construction, information about the application process
industrial hygiene, or training, BCSP offers can be found in Chapter 3, “Application
a certification that’s right for you. Based Instructions.”
on your knowledge, job duties, education,
and work experience you can earn a Purchase Your Exam
certification that meets your needs for Anytime during the one-year eligibility
your career. period, candidates may pay for their
examination through My Profile at
Determine Eligibility bcsp.org or by calling Certification
Services at +1 317-593-4800. The
Academic and/or Training examination authorization period begins
Requirement the day a candidate purchases an exam
BCSP certifications require different (within their one-year eligibility period)
education and/or training for each and ends once they have passed the
certification. For example, the Certified examination or on the day their eligibility
Safety Professional (CSP) certification ends, whichever comes first.
requires a bachelor’s degree in any Active or retired military may qualify for
field from an accredited university. The a reimbursement of the examination fee
Certified Instructional Trainer (CIT) has through the Veteran Affairs (VA). The VA
no education requirement but requires at brochure is located on the BCSP website
least 135 hours of developing or delivering for more information.
teaching or training in any SH&E specialty.

Experience Requirement Schedule Your Exam

All BCSP certifications require some
Once BCSP has processed a candidate’s
safety-related experience and/or training.
examination fee and issued an
Just like the education requirement, each
examination authorization, they will then
certification requirement is different.
be able to schedule their examination with
Chapter 7 will explain the academic and/or Pearson VUE. Pearson VUE is the official
training and experience requirements for computer-based testing provider for all
each certification in more detail. BCSP examinations. More information
about scheduling your examination can be
found in Chapter 5, “Exam Overview”.
Submit Your Application
BCSP reviews all application materials to
determine eligibility for each certification
examination. Candidates must meet

4
 are not successful may purchase a new
Sit For Your Exam examination authorization which can be
used to sit for the exam six (6) weeks after
Candidates eligible for an examination the most recent attempt, as long as they
must pass the examination within their remain eligible.
one year of eligibility period.
Note: If you need special examination
BCSP allows candidates to extend their facilities or accommodation arrangements
eligibility time limit once during their for documented disabilities (consistent with
term, and the extension is valid for one the Americans with Disabilities Act and the
year. Extensions are available for purchase American Disabilities Amendment Act),
within the last 60 days of a candidate’s you must request the accommodation
eligibility period. Extensions can be with BCSP at the time you purchase your
purchased through My Profile at exam. Accommodation requests should
bcsp.org, as long as the candidate be emailed to [email protected]
is eligible. prior to scheduling with Pearson VUE.
Those who do not meet this time limit Failure to request at the time of exam
nor purchase the eligibility extension purchase may impact your ability to have
must reapply as new candidates and meet the accommodation provided at the
the current application requirements. A testing center.
detailed outline of eligibility is provided For a list of current fees, visit www.bcsp.
once an application has been approved. org/safety-certifications/at-a-glance.
BCSP’s examination provider, Pearson VUE
(pearsonvue.com/BCSP), has test centers Maintain Certification
located around the world and operates
every business day. All Pearson VUE testing Annual Renewal Fees:
sites are subject to change based on After completing all of the requirements,
criteria provided by Pearson VUE. Please BCSP awards the credential to candidates
be sure to check regularly for available who pass their exam. Certificants will
locations when scheduling an exam. need to pay annual renewal fees in
Examinations are delivered via computer order to maintain their credential. A
at the test center. prorated renewal fee will be applied to
the remainder of the year in which the
candidate passes the exam.

Recertification:
Certificant holders must remain up-to-
date with changes in professional practice
by earning recertification points every
five years.
Additional information regarding
recertification can be found in the
Candidates will be given their examination Recertification Guide, located at
results at the center immediately after www.bcsp.org/safety-certifications/
submitting their exam(s). Candidates that recertification.

5
 CHAPTER 3 | APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS certificates, or any other items that are

Individuals who wish to pursue a BCSP not specifically requested.
certification must create a profile through After you submit your application, BCSP
My Profile at bcsp.org. Once you have Certification Services will contact you
created your profile, you may select the with any questions and/or once your
certification or designation application application review has been completed.
you are interested in and follow the online
instructions. Candidates apply only once The application fee is nonrefundable
for credentials, provided they follow all and nontransferable. For a list of current
policies and stay within their eligibility fees, visit www.bcsp.org/safety-
time limit. certifications/at-a-glance. You will be
A complete application requires prompted to include payment along
candidates to provide: with your application. Your application
will not be complete until payment for
the application fee and any additional
Contact Information
requested materials have been received. If
all application requirements have not been
BCSP Qualified Credential
met within one year of the application
Only for the CSP.
submission date, the application will
Experience Information expire.

Education and/or Training Submitting Transcripts

Information Information on submitting transcripts will
If applicable. be provided as you fill out your application
online.
Application Agreement
and Validation International transcripts must be evaluated
by BCSP’s approved third party degree
(Acknowledging truthful information evaluators so that U.S. equivalency may
has been provided, informing BCSP of be determined. The evaluation must be
any criminal convictions or unethical completed by a member of the National
behavior, agreeing to adhere to BCSP Association of Degree Evaluation Services
Code of Ethics, and not to disclose (NACES). A list of NACES members can be
any confidential information). found at naces.org.
Online Payment of Application
Validation
Note: If you are unable to submit
BCSP requires applicants to disclose
online and require a paper
criminal convictions, disciplinary actions,
application, there will be a processing
and denial or revocation of certifications,
fee. Please call the BCSP office for
licenses and professional registrations
more details.
taken against the applicant by the issuing
certification board or agency. BCSP uses
Do not send resumes, professional
its policy relating to criminal convictions
papers, continuing education course

6
to determine whether the application can Auditing
proceed or whether it will be terminated. BCSP randomly selects 5% of applications
In some cases, a BCSP attorney for audit. If your application is selected,
may contact the applicant to clarify you will be required to provide experience
information about the conviction. A copy documents and if applicable an
of the BCSP criminal conviction policy official university transcript in a sealed
can be found at www.bcsp.org/About/ envelope. Acceptable forms of validation
Policies-Forms. documentation for experience are:
Applicants are required to provide 1. A letter on company letterhead
disclosure of: from your employer validating
• All felony convictions employment dates, job title, and
percentage of job duties which are/
• All misdemeanor convictions within were safety/health/environmental.
the past five (5) years (minor traffic
violations and petty offenses DO 2. BCSP Experience Validation Form
NOT have to be reported) completed by employer.

• Any record of unethical behavior 3. If your application required college

education, you must also have the
• Information related to having a issuing university send your official
professional license or certification conferred transcript to BCSP.
denied, suspended, or revoked for
reasons other than not meeting 4. If your application required training,
qualifications, failure of examination, you must upload supporting
or failure to pay renewal fees documentation proving your
completion of this training.

CERTIFICATION SERVICES
IS HERE FOR YOU!
BCSP offers friendly, helpful customer
support via phone or online messaging.

Let a certification services

advisor assist you today.
email: [email protected]
call: +1 317-593-4800
7
 CHAPTER 4 | PREPARING FOR THE EXAM

PREPARING FOR THE knowledge and understanding. Use

simulated items to provide insight into
EXAMINATION the areas in which you should engage in
You may use various approaches to
additional study.
prepare for the examination:
• Perform individual study
• Participate in informal study groups DEVELOPING A TEST-TAKING
• Attend formal review courses STRATEGY
Knowing how to take the examination will
help improve your score. The examination
Some keys to success include: uses multiple-choice items with only one
• Knowing your strengths and (1) correct answer and three (3) incorrect
weaknesses answers. Remember, the goal is to get
as many items correct as possible. There
• Having an examination preparation is no penalty for selecting an incorrect
plan answer. However, only correct answers
• Developing a test-taking strategy count toward reaching the passing score.
• Understanding how to use your • Read the items carefully
calculator
• Consider the context
• Use examination time wisely
HAVING AN EXAMINATION • Go back to troublesome items
STUDY PLAN • Complete all items
The examination blueprint shows how the
items on an examination are distributed
across domains. The percentage of items
per domain is noted on the examination
blueprint.
Converting your subject strengths and
weaknesses into a study plan is likely to
increase your overall examination score.
Scoring well in one subject area can
compensate for a weaker score in another TEST-TAKING
TEST-TAKING
subject area. However, there may not STRATEGY
STRATEGY
be enough items in your strong areas to
achieve a passing score.
Note that knowledge and understanding
are essential in passing the examination.
Relying only on simulated examination
items is not the best way to increase

8
USING YOUR AUTHORIZED OBTAINING INFORMATION ON
CALCULATOR(S) THE BODY OF KNOWLEDGE
The candidate is allowed to bring one or Draw on your experience and on
two calculators into the secure testing professional and study references in
room as long as they both are among the your own library, a company library,
brands and models listed: or a public library. BCSP maintains a
list of examination references for each
• Casio models FX-115, -250, -260 certification at bcsp.org. Examination
or -300 items are not necessarily taken directly
• Hewlett Packard models HP 9, 10, 12 from these sources. However, BCSP
or 30 believes these references represent the
breadth and depth of coverage of safety,
• Texas Instruments models TI-30, -34, health, and environmental practice.
-35 or -36
Different versions of the above models will ONLINE SELF-ASSESSMENT
be permitted. For example, the HP-30S It is essential for you to compare your
and TI-30X calculators will be permitted, knowledge against what is contained in
as they are versions of these models. the examination blueprint. One way to do
If the candidate does not have one of the this is by using a self-evaluation method. A
approved calculators, he or she should self-evaluation helps determine how well
use the online calculator that is part of you know various subjects.
the exam. Test centers do not provide BCSP offers online self-assessments for
calculators or allow candidates to bring in all certifications for a nominal fee. The
non-approved models. self-assessment can help diagnose how
Make sure you know how to use your well you know the body of knowledge, as
calculator(s) so you do not waste valuable well as help refresh your test-taking skills.
time trying to understand how to use it The online self-assessment is based on
once the examination clock starts. It is a the blueprint located on the BCSP website
good idea to practice working solutions for the certification you desire and is half
and to be able to recall the correct the length of a full examination.
calculator procedures.
The online self-assessment allows six (6)
Remember, solutions to computational months access, during which time users
items usually are rounded. You should have unlimited assessment attempts.
select the answer closest to the computed Results from each attempt are provided,
value. and a results history is maintained so
candidates may evaluate their progress.
Note: Calculators are not permitted for the
CIT exam.

9
 Note: The self-assessment is designed examinations, they violate the agreement
to assist the candidate in evaluating their all candidates accept when they apply
strengths and weaknesses, strategizing test for certification and when they take
taking pace, and planning future studying examinations. Applicants, examination
accordingly. The self-assessment is not candidates, or certificants who reveal
considered training or preparation in any confidential information about the content
manner. of BCSP examinations through any means
also violate the BCSP Disciplinary Action
To order a self-assessment, please login Policy and the BCSP Code of Ethics
to My Profile at bcsp.org to make the located at www.bcsp.org/About/Policies-
purchase. Forms.

EXAMINATION INTEGRITY BCSP pursues legal actions against

A key to a successful and respected organizations and individuals who reveal
credentialing program is examination information about the content of BCSP
security. Without it, a peer-operated examinations. BCSP also takes legal
credentialing program has little value. action against those who falsely claim
BCSP relies on the ethical behavior of to hold a certification. Penalties include
candidates and certificants to maintain permanently barring individuals from
the security of BCSP examinations. pursuing the credential and revoking the
certifications and interim designations of
When those who hold credentials or those who have status with BCSP, online
those who are pursuing credentials reveal posting of their names, in addition to other
information about the content of BCSP legal remedies.

ONLINE
SELF-ASSESSMENTS
Compare your knowledge against what is contained
in the examination blueprint.
VISIT BCSP.ORG
Diagnose how well you know the body
of knowledge, as well as help refresh your
test-taking skills. BCSP allows six (6) months
MY PROFILE
access, during which time users have
unlimited assessment attempts. PURCHASE THE ONLINE
SELF-ASSESSMENT TODAY!

10
CHAPTER 5 | EXAM OVERVIEW

COMPUTER-BASED TESTING that when you schedule, you do so on

The BCSP examinations use computer- Pearson VUE’s website or by calling their
based testing, with one (1) item appearing national number. Local testing centers
on the screen at a time. You will simply use do not schedule examinations. All BCSP
a mouse to point to the desired answer approved Pearson VUE testing sites
and click on it to select it. Answers can be are subject to change based on criteria
changed the same way. provided by Pearson VUE. Please be sure
to check regularly for available locations
You can mark items to return to later or when scheduling an exam.
simply skip them and move to the next
item. At the end of the examination, there For a complete list of testing center rules
is a table of items and answers selected. and procedures, visit PearsonVUE.com/
The table also shows skipped and marked BCSP.
items. You can return to any item by simply
clicking on the item number.
Prior to beginning the actual examination,
there is a tutorial. Your examination clock
begins when you officially commence with
the examination itself. After completing
the examination, you will select to end the
exam to formally submit your examination
for scoring. You will receive results before
you leave the testing center facility.
Examinations are closed book, and
accessing external reference materials
during your examination is not permitted.
For use during the examination, the testing
center will provide you with materials for
working out calculations by hand.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Refer to the Pearson VUE Computer- OF EXAMINATION
Based Testing Brochure located on any All candidates must pass the examination
certification page at bcsp.org for more to earn the desired credential.
details and requirements.
The examinations are multiple-choice
items with four (4) possible answers
SCHEDULING YOUR EXAM and only one (1) correct answer. Data
Once you have purchased your necessary to answer items are included
examination, BCSP will send you an in the item. Each item is independent and
examination authorization and information does not rely on the correct answer to any
on scheduling your examination with a other item. Formulas will be embedded
Pearson VUE testing center. It is important into each item that requires one.

11
 EXAM SAMPLE QUESTIONS the proportion of the actual examination
To get an idea of the type of questions devoted to that domain.
you may encounter, here are a couple The full blueprint for each certification can
sample questions that could be on an be viewed and downloaded at bcsp.org
examination: from each certification webpage.
Why is it necessary for the fire
department to maintain control of a fire
scene after the fire is extinguished? EXAMINATION CONTENT
A. The fire department is responsible for
DEVELOPMENT AND REVISION
the prevention of looting of the scene. BCSP updates examinations regularly.
B. The fire department may be held liable Items come from safety professionals in
practice. Before items are accepted into
for injuries to the curious.
item banks, they go through rigorous
C. The fire department is responsible to
technical, psychometric, and grammatical
allow the insurance people to do their
editing. Also, 10–15% of the items on
claim investigation.
BCSP examinations are experimental, and
D. Fire investigation personnel must have do not contribute to a candidate’s pass/fail
adequate time to properly investigate decision. BCSP analyzes the performance
the fire. of these experimental items before
including them as scored items.
Identify a design action for preventing
and controlling “sick building syndrome.”

A. Keep hot water supply temperatures HOW BCSP ESTABLISHES THE

higher than 120°F. MINIMUM PASSING SCORE
B. Limit relative humidity to less than 70%. BCSP uses criterion-referenced procedures
C. Use only steam humidifiers, not (the Modified Angoff and the Bookmark
recirculating ones. Standard Setting Methods) to establish the
D. Keep coils, pans, drainage systems and minimum passing scores for examinations.
duct work clean. The two methods differ in terms of the
procedures used, but both ensure that the
passing score is independent of scores from
EXAMINATION BLUEPRINT other candidates sitting for the examination
BCSP examination blueprints are based on and involve having panels of experts rate
surveys of what safety professionals do in each examination item with respect to
practice. The examination is required for the minimally qualified candidate. BCSP
candidates to demonstrate knowledge of uses the two methods as a check on each
professional safety practice. other to ensure more accurate minimum
passing scores and fairness to candidates
The top levels, called domains, represent as much as possible. As examinations are
the major functions performed by safety reviewed and modified on a regular basis,
professionals. Within each domain are lists the minimum passing score is adjusted,
of knowledge areas and skills necessary through equating studies, to reflect the
for carrying out the task in that domain. difficulty of items on the examinations. Item
Each domain heading is accompanied performance is also evaluated regularly to
by a percentage label which represents ensure that BCSP examinations maintain the
highest testing standards.
12
CHAPTER 6 | AFTER ACHIEVING CERTIFICATION

BCSP CREDENTIAL HOLDERS’ Annual Report

FEATURES AND BENEFITS The BCSP Annual Report is another
important publication you will receive
Wallet Card electronically. It contains summarized data
Upon receiving your credential and about BCSP credential holders and the
each year when you pay the required annual audited financial report and can be
annual renewal fee, a wallet card is made found on the BCSP website.
available online which shows you hold the
credential. The wallet card is the official BCSP Directories
documentation of your credential. You BCSP publishes a directory of individuals
will have access to print your wallet card
who currently hold BCSP certifications
instantly from your profile. and designations. An abbreviated format
containing names, cities, and states,
Wall Certificate appears on the BCSP website and allows
When you achieve a credential, BCSP viewers to confirm if a person currently
issues a wall certificate suitable for holds a BCSP certification or designation.
framing. Should you lose or damage your
wall certificate, BCSP will replace it for a Digital Badges
nominal fee. Visit My Profile at bcsp.org BCSP credential holders receive a digital
to order. badge for each credential they have
earned. Digital badges contain links to
BCSP Career Center communicate detailed information about
Many employers post open job positions your specific certification(s) and more. The
seeking qualified safety professionals. With badges are accessed via My Profile and
a BCSP credential, you may post your can be used in users’ email, social media,
resume free of charge at jobs.bcsp.org web pages containing their professional
and employers have access to view your information, and more.
resume and contact you.
Membership Level
BCSP eNewsletter Subscription Individuals may use a credential to qualify
As a BCSP credential holder, you will for the highest level of membership
receive the quarterly BCSP eNewsletter. in professional safety societies. After
The BCSP eNewsletter contains achieving a credential, check with the
information about important changes safety and health organizations in which
which may affect BCSP certifications and you hold memberships to see if you
designations, information about certificate qualify for a status change. For example,
holders, and professional safety practice the CSP, ASP, OHST, and CHST credentials
information. Current issues and back issues qualify members of the American
are located on the BCSP website. Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) for
“Professional Member” status.

13
 Title Protection and Laws The credential is awarded to individuals,
Involving BCSP Credentials not companies, and should only be used
Some states have enacted title protection with individuals’ names.
laws which restrict anyone from claiming Example of proper company use:
to hold a BCSP credential without having
duly obtained it from BCSP. Additionally, ABC Safety Company provides the
several states have enacted laws or latest safety services. Employees
regulations which specify that BCSP holding the Certified Safety
credential holders may provide loss Professional® (CSP®) certification
control services for insurance companies. include Robert A. Smith, CSP and
Check your state government website for Mary A. Jones, CSP.
more details. Example of improper company use:
ABC Safety Company, providing
USE OF A BCSP CREDENTIAL safety services by Certified Safety
Professionals.
It is important to know how to use
your credential correctly. The titles and
credentials are registered trademarks MAINTAINING YOUR
issued to BCSP by the U.S. Patent and CERTIFICATION
Trademark Office. They can only be used In order to retain your certification, you
when authorized for a period specifically must:
designated by BCSP. There are guidelines
for displaying your credential properly. For • Inform BCSP or update through
display of proper and improper use, the My Profile when your mail or
Certified Safety Professional (CSP) will be email address changes
used in this section. • Pay your annual renewal fee
Examples of correct use: • Complete and submit
recertification requirements
• Robert A. Smith, CSP
• Robert A. Smith, Certified Safety Changing Your Name
Professional If you change your name through
The credential may be used only for the marriage or other court proceedings, you
period for which use is authorized. Use may request a name change by contacting
expires if you have not paid the annual [email protected]. Additionally, you must
renewal fee or have not met recertification provide a copy of the court record or
requirements for the credential. Use of marriage certificate in order for BCSP
these titles beyond the authorized period to register the change.
(without complying with renewal or
recertification requirements) constitutes Paying Annual Renewal Fee
unauthorized use of the credential. The authority to use a BCSP title is valid for
one (1) year. It must be renewed annually.
You may use the credential on your
You will receive a prorated fee for the
business cards, resume, social media, and
remainder of the year in which you pass
correspondence with your signature. You
the examination. Each following year,
may use your credential virtually anywhere
BCSP will send you a notice when your
you use your name.

14
annual renewal fee is due. BCSP gives you REINSTATEMENT
the options for paying the fee by phone or If you fail to pay your annual renewal fee
online via credit card. After receiving your or fail to achieve and submit the required
payment, BCSP will provide a receipt and recertification points every five (5) years,
wallet card available to print. For a list of BCSP will send you a notice that your
current fees, visit www.bcsp.org/safety- credential has been invalidated and you no
certifications/at-a-glance. longer hold the credential.
Recertification Requirements You may seek reinstatement online
through My Profile at bcsp.org.
The recertification program helps
Reinstatement must be completed
credential holders keep up with changes
by 12/31 of the same year you are
affecting professional safety practice.
invalidated. Reinstatement includes paying
The program complies with requirements
a reinstatement fee and complying with
of BCSP’s international accrediting
the current recertification requirements.
organization.
Otherwise, your credential will expire and
Every five (5) years (one (1) cycle) you you will be unable to reapply for one (1)
must achieve recertification points. There year, after which you will need to apply as
are ten (10) categories of activities, each a new candidate and meet all application
providing points toward meeting that and examination requirements.
goal. Keep in mind, there is no limit to
the number of points in some categories, CAREER INTERRUPTIONS
while other categories have annual and/or While holding a BCSP credential, you may
total point limits. face situations which affect your ability
to maintain your certification. You may
At the end of the five-year period, you
experience an interruption in your safety
must submit the points you earned during
career, such as moving to a job which is
that cycle. Only points earned during a
not in the safety profession, taking time
recertification cycle count toward that
out to be a parent, student, or soldier,
cycle. BCSP randomly selects 5% of those
having an extended health problem, or
who submit their points for an audit. While
being unemployed. BCSP has established
documentation to prove points is not
some options to help deal with these types
required with the initial submission, the
of situations, but you must notify and work
audit procedure requires you have proof of
with BCSP as soon as possible prior to
the points claimed. It is important that you
invalidation.
keep records to verify your recertification
activities.
Leaves of Absence or Extensions
Additional details of the recertification You may seek a leave of absence or
program appear in the Recertification an extension if a career interruption
Guide. You may download the will affect your ability to meet
Recertification Guide on the BCSP website recertification requirements. Please refer
to help you through the process. You will to the Recertification Guide for detailed
want to refer to the website regularly for information.
the most up-to-date information.

15
 Annual Renewal Fee Waiver considerations involved. Registration itself
While Unemployed does not provide absolute protection from
others using similar acronyms or titles.
If you become unemployed and are
BCSP does not have exclusive use of the
unable to pay your annual renewal fee,
acronym. BCSP continually challenges
you may request in writing a one-time
those uses which can be confusing to the
waiver of the annual renewal fee.
public or for which there are legal grounds
to make such challenges.
RETIRED CREDENTIAL
HOLDERS INDIVIDUALS USING A BCSP
Certificants who are retiring can hold their CREDENTIAL WITHOUT
certifications in retired status should they AUTHORITY
meet the following requirements: BCSP has established procedures for
• They have held certification challenging individuals known to use a
a minimum of ten (10) years BCSP credential without having obtained it
or after they lost it for failure to pay annual
• They have completed two (2) renewal fees or meet recertification
recertification cycles requirements.
To maintain a certification in retired status: In order to establish someone is using the
credential without authority, BCSP must
• Safety practice is not required
have the original document (or a copy)
• No more than 200 hours of safety showing where the individual is using the
practice annually is allowed title. Most often, the unauthorized use
occurs online, on a business card, resume,
• A nominal retired annual renewal business letterhead, brochure or similar
fee is required each year publication, or with a signature.
A certificant holding a certification in To initiate action against the individual
retired status must indicate their status as using the credential without authority,
in the following examples: BCSP also needs the offending individual’s
current mailing address.
• Robert A. Smith, CSP Retired
BCSP relies on those finding potential
• Robert A. Smith, CSP (Retired) unauthorized uses to report them and
provide the documentation showing the
• Robert A. Smith, CSP Ret. use of these titles. BCSP will not disclose
• Robert A. Smith, Certified Safety the name of the person or organization
Professional (Retired) reporting potential unauthorized uses.
After receiving documentation of a
PROTECTING THE potential unauthorized use case, BCSP
takes steps to challenge that individual
CREDENTIALS AND LOGOS and investigates any irregularities on the
Because BCSP has registered its logos and part of BCSP. Legal counsel for BCSP may
titles, it has a solid position for challenging participate in the procedures.
BCSP title and/or logo infringement.
There are several legal theories and

16
Those who have used BCSP titles without PROMOTING A BCSP
authority may be barred from pursuing a
BCSP certification for up to five (5) years.
CREDENTIAL
Their names are also published on the BCSP uses several methods to promote
BCSP website. Other penalties may be credentials and to encourage safety
applied. BCSP reserves the right to use the professionals to pursue them. You may
courts in protecting use of a credential. volunteer to assist in these activities. Please
contact BCSP or visit the BCSP website to
determine available materials.
CRIMINAL CONVICTIONS
BCSP’s criminal conviction policy appears
on the BCSP website. It applies to BCSP
certification holders. The policy also
covers convictions by other certifications
and licensing bodies for unauthorized
use of designations. It requires credential
o te
holders to report new convictions m
which can result in BCSP disciplinary Pro SP!
proceedings. BC BANN YS!
L
ER
A
D I S P

DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES
BCSP authorizes individuals to use a
credential when they meet requirements
EARN
RECERTIFICATION
for achieving and retaining the credential.
BCSP also has a responsibility to withdraw POINTS!
that authorization if individuals fail to
pay annual renewal fees, fail to meet Request a Returnable
recertification requirements, or violate Banner Display
BCSP Disciplinary Action Policy or
Use of BCSP banner displays helps
the BCSP Code of Ethics. The BCSP
promote BCSP and BCSP certifications.
Disciplinary Action Policy contains rules
They are ideal for meetings, local and
on disciplinary procedures and grounds
regional conferences, or educational
for action. The complete BCSP Disciplinary
programs of local professional groups
Action Policy is on the BCSP website.
and companies. BCSP pays for shipping
to and from events. In some instances
APPEALS you may earn recertification credit for
You may appeal decisions related to promoting certifications. To request a
earning and maintaining BCSP credentials. display, fill out the Display and Literature
Requests for appeal must be submitted Request Form located at www.bcsp.
to the Chief Executive Officer in writing org/Get-Involved/Presentations-and-
and in accordance to the current appeals Outreach, or contact BCSP at
policy located online at www.bcsp.org/ [email protected].
About/Policies-Forms.

17
 development of others, the mentor
Promotional Materials
program helps bring current credential
There is a variety of complimentary holders and those looking to pursue
literature about all of the BCSP credentials, certification together.
qualifications and procedures, and
examinations. Most BCSP publications The mentor program rewards those who
are available for download on the BCSP become mentors and helps to ensure
website. To request literature, please fill safety professionals who perform quality
out the Display and Literature Request work are certified. By having your mentee
Form located at www.bcsp.org/Get- fill out the Professional Advancement
Involved/Presentations-and-Outreach, Mentor Form and submit it by fax or email
or contact BCSP at bcsp.org. at the time that they apply online, BCSP
recognizes mentors and their work with
their peers, colleagues, and other safety
Presentation Materials
professionals.
PowerPoint presentations about the safety
profession and the BCSP credentials are
located on the BCSP website at www. MAINTAINING YOUR MAIL
bcsp.org/Get-Involved/Presentations- AND EMAIL ADDRESS 

and-Outreach. The materials are editable
As a credential holder, you are solely
and available for use by credential holders
responsible to keep BCSP informed of
as needed.
your current mail and email address. If
either address changes, you must change
Mentor Program
it through My Profile or notify BCSP.
Created specifically to recognize You could lose
your credential if annual
certificants’ roles in assisting the career renewal notices and other important
information do not reach you. 


SPREAD THE WORD!

There is value in safety certification.
BCSP gives you all the tools to present
about safety certification.
18 18
CHAPTER 7 | CERTIFICATIONS

CERTIFICATIONS 
 Certifications will be explained in

detail starting with the Certified Safety
BCSP has eight (8) certifications.
Professional (CSP). The CSP is the highest
This chapter will explain each one in detail
certification you can earn through BCSP. It
by going over the following information:
is known as the “Gold Standard” of safety
certification.
Academic and/or Training
Requirements All of the BCSP certifications play a special
role in the safety field with one common
goal...
Experience Requirements Keeping the workplace safe.

Credential Fees Safety Culture

BCSP fulfills industry and global demand
for validating highly competent safety
Exam Information practitioners with varying amounts of
Exam length and time limits formal education and significant amounts
of experience.
BCSP certifications create a unified safety
Recertification culture by setting baseline competencies
of safety knowledge and skills throughout
the organization.

INSTRUCTIONAL The best safety cultures require safety

Safety Trainers and Instructors competency across the organization and
also value safety leadership at all levels.
STRATEGIC
PLANNING
Safety Professionals
: LEADERS
and Experts
I ON AT
AT
NT

AL
LL
IMPLE ME

Safety Culture
EVELS

TECHNICAL
EXPERTISE
Safety Technicians,
SAFETY PRACTITIONERS Specialists,
& MID-MANAGEMENT and Managers
Safety Managers

1919
 CERTIFIED SAFETY PROFESSIONAL®

and certificants cannot use unaccredited

ABOUT degrees, and the use is a violation of the
Certificants who hold the CSP mostly work BCSP Code of Ethics.
in private industry, which could include being
a government contractor. A CSP who works BCSP requires all degrees from colleges
in the government sector may work in the and universities outside the United States
military, federal, state, or local agencies. be evaluated for U.S. equivalency. More
Safety at this level is virtually in every information can be found at bcsp.org.
industry including petroleum exploration,
production and refining, manufacturing,
construction, healthcare, and insurance. A EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT
CSP’s professional time is spent on safety
CSP candidates must have four (4) years of
management systems, occupational health
professional safety experience to sit for the
and ergonomics, emergency response and
CSP exam. Professional safety experience
preparedness, fire prevention and protection,
must meet the following criteria to qualify:
and security responsibilities. A CSP may also
have environmental management system ** Professional safety must be the primary
responsibilities, including managing safety, function of the position. Collateral
health, and environmental programs that can duties in safety are not counted.
cover up to 1,000 or more employees.
** The position’s primary responsibility
must be the prevention of harm to
people, property, or the environment,
ACADEMIC AND/OR TRAINING rather than responsibility for responding
REQUIREMENT to harmful events.
All individuals applying for the CSP must
** Professional safety functions must
have a bachelor’s degree or higher in any
be at least 50% of the position duties.
field from an accredited institution.
BCSP defines full-time as at least
There is no waiver of the academic 35 hours per week. Part-time safety
requirement and proof of a minimum experience is allowed if the applicant
qualifying degree must be provided. For has the equivalent of at least 900 hours
U.S. degrees, BCSP requires the school to of professional safety work during any
hold institutional accreditation recognized year (75 hours per month or 18 hours
by the Council for Higher Education per week) for which experience credit is
Accreditation (CHEA) (chea.org) and/or the sought.
U.S. Department of Education (ed.gov). ** The position must be at a professional
level. This is determined by evaluating
Continuing education courses, seminars,
the degree of professional charge by
and certificate programs are not a substitute
which there is a reliance of employees,
for, and do not receive credit toward, the
employers, or clients on the person’s
academic requirement.
ability to identify, evaluate, and control
Unaccredited degrees are a growing concern hazards through engineering and/or
and some states have laws making it illegal administrative approaches.
to use unaccredited degrees. Applicants

20
 ** The position must have breadth of ** Professional Member of the Singapore
professional safety duties. This is Institution of Safety Officers (SISO)
determined by evaluating the variety ** Diploma/Certificate in Industrial Safety,
of hazards about which the candidate as issued by the State Government
must advise and the range of skills Departments/Boards of Technical
involved in recognizing, evaluating, Education, Government of India
and controlling hazards.

CSP FEES*
BCSP QUALIFIED CREDENTIAL
Application Fee: $160.00
REQUIREMENT*
Applicants who meet all eligibility Individual Exam Fee: $350.00
requirements including experience and
Exam Bundle Fee (optional): $600.00
education must hold one (1) of the following
Exam bundles include an examination
credentials at the time they apply for the
authorization, an online self-assessment,
CSP:
and a second exam attempt if the first is
** Associate Safety Professional (ASP) unsuccessful.
** Graduate Safety Practitioner (GSP) Eligibility Extension Fee**: $100.00
** Transitional Safety Practitioner (TSP)
Renewal Fee: $180.00
** Certified Industrial Hygienist® (CIH®)
** Chartered Member of the Institution CSP EXAMINATION
of Occupational Safety and Health
The CSP examination contains 200
(CMIOSH)
multiple-choice items with four (4) possible
** Canadian Registered Safety Professional answers and only one (1) correct answer.
(CRSP) You will have FIVE AND A HALF (5.5)
** CP-12 Professional Certificate in Safety hours to complete the CSP examination.
and Occupational Health, U.S. Army Examinations are closed book, and
Combat Readiness Center (ACRC) accessing external reference materials
** Certified Safety Engineer (CSE), as during your examination is not permitted.
administered by the State Administration For use during the examination, the testing
of Work Safety (SAWS), People’s center will provide you with materials for
Republic of China (PRC) working out calculations by hand.

** Master in Occupational Safety and

Health, International Training Centre of CSP RECERTIFICATION
the International Labour Organization CSPs must remain up-to-date with changes
(ITC-ILO) in professional practice by earning and
submitting 25 recertification points every
** Member in the Institute of Safety five (5) years.
Professionals of Nigeria (MISPN)
** National Examination Board in Additional information regarding
Occupational Safety and Health recertification can be found in the
(NEBOSH) National or International Recertification Guide, located at www.bcsp.
Diploma in Occupational Health org/safety-certifications/recertification.
and Safety

* Please visit the BCSP website for the most current credential list and prices.
** Valid for an additional year of eligibility. Available only one time and within the last
60 days of initial eligibility date. 21
 SAFETY MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST

ABOUT SMS EXAMINATION

Most certificants who hold the SMS work for The SMS examination contains 200
a private or public entity (i.e., government multiple-choice items with four (4) possible
department, public agency, or military). answers and only one (1) correct answer.
Safety at this level is virtually in every You will have FOUR-AND-A-HALF (4.5)
industry including manufacturing, petroleum hours to complete the SMS examination.
production and refining, construction, and Examinations are closed book, and
insurance. An SMS may hold positions at accessing external reference materials
the manager level or director level and may during your examination is not permitted.
directly supervise employees. For use during the examination, the testing
center will provide you with materials for
working out calculations by hand.
ACADEMIC AND/OR TRAINING
REQUIREMENT SMS RECERTIFICATION
There is no specific academic or training
SMSs must remain up-to-date with
requirement for the SMS certification.
changes in professional practice by earning
and submitting 25 recertification points
every five (5) years.
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT
To qualify for the SMS, candidates must have Additional information regarding
ten (10) years of experience with at least recertification can be found in the
35% of job tasks related to the management Recertification Guide, located at
of safety related programs, processes, www.bcsp.org/safety-certifications/
procedures, and/or personnel. recertification.

SMS FEES* * Please visit the BCSP website for the

most current prices.
Application Fee: $160.00
** Valid for an additional year of eligibility.
Individual Exam Fee: $350.00 Available only one time and within the last
Exam Bundle Fee (optional): $600.00 60 days of initial eligibility date.
Exam bundles include an examination
authorization, an online self-assessment,
and a second exam attempt if the first is
unsuccessful.
Eligibility Extension Fee**: $100.00
Renewal Fee: $170.00

22
 ASSOCIATE SAFETY PROFESSIONAL®

ABOUT Unaccredited degrees are a growing

The ASP is a mid-level certification that concern and some states have laws making
fulfills the credential requirement leading to it illegal to use unaccredited degrees.
the CSP. An ASP may hold positions at the Applicants and certificants cannot use
technical level or program management unaccredited degrees, and the use is a
level and may directly supervise employees. violation of the BCSP Code of Ethics.
Your knowledge of safety concepts and BCSP requires all degrees from colleges
expertise in fundamental safety assurance and universities outside the United States
methodologies can make you a key member be evaluated for U.S. equivalency. For more
of a project, operational, or design team. information visit bcsp.org.
An ASP may be called upon to coordinate
safety activities, conduct basic safety
analyses, identify hazardous situations, and EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT
recommend or oversee implementation of ASP candidates must have one (1) year
risk reduction measures. professional safety experience to sit for the
ASP exam. Professional safety experience
must meet the following criteria to qualify:
ACADEMIC AND/OR TRAINING
REQUIREMENT ** Professional safety must be the
primary function of the position.
All individuals applying for the ASP must
Collateral duties in safety are not
have a bachelor’s degree or higher in
counted.
any field from an accredited institution
or an associate’s in safety, health, or the ** The position’s primary responsibility
environment. The associate degree must must be the prevention of harm to
include at least four (4) courses with at people, property, or the environment,
least 12 semester hours/18 quarter hours of rather than responsibility for
study in the safety, health, or environmental responding to harmful events.
domains covered in the ASP and CSP ** Professional safety functions must
examination blueprints. be at least 50% of the position duties.
BCSP defines full-time as at least
There is no waiver of the academic
35 hours per week. Part-time safety
requirement, and proof of a minimum
experience is allowed if the applicant
qualifying degree must be provided. For
has the equivalent of at least 900
U.S. degrees, BCSP requires the school
hours of professional safety work
hold institutional accreditation recognized
during any year (75 hours per month
by the Council for Higher Education
or 18 hours per week) for which
Accreditation (CHEA) (chea.org) and/or the
experience credit is sought.
U.S. Department of Education (ed.gov).
** The position must be at a professional
Continuing education courses, seminars, level. This is determined by evaluating
and certificate programs are not a substitute the degree of professional charge
for, and do not receive credit toward, the by which there is a reliance of
academic requirement. employees, employers, or clients

23
 on the person’s ability to identify, ASP EXAMINATION
evaluate, and control hazards through The ASP examination contains 200
engineering and/or administrative multiple-choice items with four (4) possible
approaches. answers and only one (1) correct answer.
** The position must have breadth of You will have FIVE (5) hours to complete the
professional safety duties. This is ASP examination. Examinations are closed
determined by evaluating the variety book, and accessing external reference
of hazards about which the candidate materials during your examination is not
must advise and the range of skills permitted. For use during the examination,
involved in recognizing, evaluating, the testing center will provide you with
and controlling hazards. materials for working out calculations
by hand.
ASP FEES*
ASP RECERTIFICATION
Application Fee: $160.00
ASPs must remain up-to-date with
Individual Exam Fee: $350.00 changes in professional practice by earning
and submitting 25 recertification points
Exam Bundle Fee (optional): $600.00 every five (5) years.
Exam bundles include an examination
authorization, an online self-assessment, Additional information regarding
and a second exam attempt if the first is recertification can be found in the
unsuccessful. Recertification Guide, located at
www.bcsp.org/safety-certifications/
Eligibility Extension Fee**: $100.00 recertification.
Renewal Fee: $170.00 * Please visit the BCSP website for the
most current prices.
** Valid for an additional year of eligibility.
Available only one time and within the last
60 days of initial eligibility date.

BUND
HE L
REDUCE STRESS
• BUY T

E
A N D S AV

WITH A SECOND CHANCE TEST!

LE

E
A BUND BCSP IS OFFERING AN
EXAM BUNDLE!
1 Exam, 1 Self-Assessment,
& 2nd Exam Attempt*
APPLY TODAY AND SAVE!
BCSP.ORG
*2nd exam attempt if the first is unsuccessful.

24
 OCCUPATIONAL HYGIENE & SAFETY
TECHNICIAN®

ABOUT OHST EXAMINATION

Certificants who hold the OHST may The OHST examination contains 200
work for private entities, public entities, multiple-choice items with four (4) possible
government agencies, or the military. answers and only one (1) correct answer.
These organizations may be in oil and gas You will have FOUR (4) hours to complete
extraction, manufacturing, construction, or the OHST examination. Examinations
consultative services for the safety, health, are closed book, and accessing external
and environmental fields. Positions vary reference materials during your
from manager level to technician level or examination is not permitted. For use
consultant. This may be a good certification during the examination, the testing center
as a precursor to higher level industrial will provide you with materials for working
hygiene certifications. out calculations by hand.

ACADEMIC AND/OR TRAINING OHST RECERTIFICATION

REQUIREMENT OHSTs must remain up-to-date with
There is no specific academic or training changes in professional practice by earning
requirement for the OHST. and submitting 20 recertification points
every five (5) years.
Additional information regarding
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT recertification can be found in the
To qualify for the examination, OHST Recertification Guide, located at
candidates must have three (3) years of www.bcsp.org/safety-certifications/
experience with at least 35% of primary recertification.
job duties involving safety, health, and
environmental practice.
* Please visit the BCSP website for the
most current prices.
OHST FEES* ** Valid for an additional year of eligibility.
Application Fee: $140.00 Available only one time and within the last
60 days of initial eligibility date.
Individual Exam Fee: $300.00
Exam Bundle Fee (optional): $550.00
Exam bundles include an examination
authorization, an online self-assessment,
and a second exam attempt if the first is
unsuccessful.
Eligibility Extension Fee**: $100.00
Renewal Fee: $145.00

25
 CONSTRUCTION HEALTH & SAFETY
TECHNICIAN®

ABOUT CHST EXAMINATION

Most certificants with the CHST are working The CHST examination contains 200
in building construction or the general multiple-choice items with four (4) possible
contracting sector. Some may also work in answers and only one (1) correct answer.
the heavy and civil engineering sector. You will have FOUR (4) hours to complete
the CHST examination. Examinations
ACADEMIC AND/OR TRAINING are closed book, and accessing external
reference materials during your
REQUIREMENT examination is not permitted. For use
There is no specific academic or training during the examination, the testing center
requirement for the CHST. will provide you with materials for working
out calculations by hand.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT CHST RECERTIFICATION

To qualify for the examination, CHST
CHSTs must remain up-to-date with
candidates must have three (3) years of
changes in professional practice by earning
experience with at least 35% of primary
and submitting 20 recertification points
job duties involving safety, health, and
every five (5) years.
environmental practice related to the
construction industry. Additional information regarding
recertification can be found in the
CHST FEES* Recertification Guide, located at
www.bcsp.org/safety-certifications/
Application Fee: $140.00 recertification.
Individual Exam Fee: $300.00
* Please visit the BCSP website for the
Exam Bundle Fee (optional): $550.00 most current prices.
Exam bundles include an examination
authorization, an online self-assessment, ** Valid for an additional year of eligibility.
and a second exam attempt if the first is Available only one time and within the last
unsuccessful. 60 days of initial eligibility date.

Eligibility Extension Fee**: $100.00

Renewal Fee: $145.00

26
 SAFETY TRAINED SUPERVISOR®

ABOUT STS FEES*

The Safety Trained Supervisor® (STS®) Application Fee: $120.00
is intended for leaders at all levels of an
organization because all employees have Individual Exam Fee: $185.00
responsibilities for a safe work environment. This
certification is intended for executives, directors, Exam Bundle Fee (optional): $325.00
managers, supervisors, superintendents, and Exam bundles include an examination
employees. These individuals may not have authorization, an online self-assessment,
safety as a primary duty, but their knowledge and a second exam attempt if the first is
of safety practices ensures safer and healthier unsuccessful.
worksites, and their competency strengthens
the foundation of safety in the organization. The Eligibility Extension Fee**: $100.00
STS sets standard baseline knowledge across the
organization. Renewal Fee: $70.00

ACADEMIC AND/OR TRAINING STS EXAMINATION

REQUIREMENT The STS examination contains 100 multiple-
choice items with four (4) possible answers
All individuals applying for the STS must
and only one (1) correct answer. You will
have completed 30 hours of formal safety
have TWO (2) hours to complete the STS
and health training through a single course
examination. Examinations are closed book,
or multiple training courses. Appropriate
and accessing external reference materials
training includes any safety and health
during your examination is not permitted.
courses, conferences, or internal company
For use during the examination, the testing
training, to name a few examples.
center will provide you with materials for
working out calculations by hand.
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT
STS candidates must have two (2) years of STS RECERTIFICATION
supervisory experience or four (4) years of STSs must remain up-to-date with changes
work experience related to the STS industry in professional practice by earning and
(work experience must be at minimum submitting three (3) points (30 hours) of
part-time [18 hrs/week] to qualify). safety and health courses or earning the
STSC, CIT, CHST, OHST, ASP, SMS, or CSP
every five (5) years.
Additional information regarding
recertification can be found in the
Recertification Guide, located at www.bcsp.
org/safety-certifications/recertification.

* Please visit the BCSP website for the most current prices.
** Valid for an additional year of eligibility. Available only one time and within the last
60 days of initial eligibility date.
27
 SAFETY TRAINED SUPERVISOR
CONSTRUCTION®

ABOUT STSC FEES*

The Safety Trained Supervisor Construction® Application Fee: $120.00
(STSC®) is intended for leaders at all levels
of an organization because all employees Individual Exam Fee: $185.00
have responsibilities for a safe construction
Exam Bundle Fee (optional): $325.00
work environment. This certification is
Exam bundles include an examination
intended for executives, directors, managers,
authorization, an online self-assessment,
supervisors, superintendents, and employees.
and a second exam attempt if the first is
These individuals may not have safety as
unsuccessful.
a primary duty, but their knowledge of
safety practices ensures safer and healthier Eligibility Extension Fee**: $100.00
worksites, and their competency strengthens
the foundation of safety in the organization. Renewal Fee: $70.00
The STSC sets standard baseline knowledge
across the organization. STSC EXAMINATION
The STSC examination contains 100
ACADEMIC AND/OR TRAINING multiple-choice items with four (4) possible
REQUIREMENT answers and only one (1) correct answer. You
will have TWO (2) hours to complete the STSC
All individuals applying for the STSC must examination. Examinations are closed book,
have completed 30 hours of formal safety and accessing external reference materials
and health training through a single course during your examination is not permitted.
or multiple training courses. Appropriate For use during the examination, the testing
training includes any safety and health center will provide you with materials for
courses, conferences, or internal company working out calculations by hand.
training, to name a few.

STSC RECERTIFICATION
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT STSCs must remain up-to-date with changes
STSC candidates must have two (2) years in professional practice by earning and
of supervisory experience or four (4) years submitting three (3) points (30 hours) of
of work experience related to construction safety and health courses or earning the STS,
(work experience must be at minimum CIT, CHST, OHST, ASP, SMS, or CSP every five
part-time [18 hrs/week] to qualify). (5) years.
Additional information regarding
recertification can be found in the
Recertification Guide, located at www.bcsp.
org/safety-certifications/recertification.

* Please visit the BCSP website for the most current prices.
** Valid for an additional year of eligibility. Available only one time and within the last
60 days of initial eligibility date.
28
 CERTIFIED INSTRUCTIONAL TRAINER

ABOUT CIT EXAMINATION

Most certificants who hold the CIT work for The CIT examination contains 100 multiple-
a private or public entity (i.e., government choice items with four (4) possible answers
department, public agency, or military). and only one (1) correct answer. You will
Safety training at this level is virtually in every have TWO (2) hours to complete the CIT
industry including petroleum production examination. Data necessary to answer
and refining, and construction. A CIT may items are included in the item. Each item
hold positions at the manager, director, is independent and does not rely on the
technician, or supervisory level and may have correct answer to any other item. Formulas
other duties in addition to training. will be embedded into each item that
requires one. Examinations are closed book,
and accessing external reference materials
ACADEMIC AND/OR TRAINING
during your examination is not permitted.
REQUIREMENT For use during the examination, the testing
CIT candidates must list 135 hours of center will provide you with materials for
teaching, training, or development in any working out calculations by hand.
safety, health, and environmental specialty.
CIT RECERTIFICATION
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT CITs must remain up-to-date with changes
in professional practice by earning and
There is no specific experience requirement
submitting 20 recertification points, and a
for the CIT.
minimum of 2.8 of those points must be
in teaching, developing, and/or attending
CIT FEES* courses on instructional techniques every
five (5) years.
Application Fee: $140.00
Additional information regarding
Individual Exam Fee: $300.00
recertification can be found in the
Exam Bundle Fee (optional): $550.00 Recertification Guide, located at www.bcsp.
Exam bundles include an examination org/safety-certifications/recertification.
authorization, an online self-assessment,
and a second exam attempt if the first is * Please visit the BCSP website for the most
unsuccessful. current prices.
Eligibility Extension Fee**: $100.00 ** Valid for an additional year of eligibility.
Renewal Fee: $145.00 Available only one time and within the last
60 days of initial eligibility date.

29
CHAPTER 8 | DESIGNATIONS

WHAT IS A DESIGNATION? • Violating the BCSP Code of Ethics

A designation is a credential that signifies an (see the Code of Ethics at the end
individuals path towards the Certified Safety of this publication)
Professional (CSP) certification. A designation
is a BCSP qualified credential that meets part • If the credential is not maintained and
of the eligibility requirements for the CSP. lost, you cannot obtain that designation
Designations are not certifications. However, again and it cannot be used as a
the application process is the same, started by qualifying credential toward the CSP.
creating an account through My Profile
at bcsp.org. MAINTAINING YOUR MAIL
AND EMAIL ADDRESS 

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? As a designation holder, you are solely
responsible to keep BCSP informed of your
Recognition for being on a path
current mail and email addresses. If either
toward the CSP certification.
address changes, you must update it on
Recognition for the level of My Profile or notify BCSP. You could lose

preparation for professional safety the designation if annual renewal notices
practice. and other important information does
not reach you. 

There is no application fee.
A wall certificate and digital badge
awarding the designation. PROTECTING DESIGNATION
AND BCSP CREDENTIALS 

Access to the BCSP Career Center
BCSP acts to challenge those who use
designations and credentials without
BCSP offers two designations, the Graduate authority from BCSP. Penalties may
Safety Practitioner® (GSP®) and the include being barred from pursuing BCSP
Transitional Safety Practitioner (TSP). This certifications and publishing the names
chapter will go over both designations in of violators.
detail and tell you how to obtain them.
A directory of those holding certifications
from BCSP, and those who have used BCSP
STANDARD INFORMATION designations without authority, appear at
FOR DESIGNATIONS bcsp.org. 


RETAINING A DESIGNATION
The following conditions will result in the loss
of a designation:
• Failure to pay an annual renewal fee
• Failing to complete the CSP within the
6-year time
limit

30 30 31
DISCIPLINARY ACTION 
 MOVING BEYOND THE
BCSP has a disciplinary action policy. DESIGNATION
Disciplinary actions may include any of the
following: 
 Qualifying for the CSP Examination
CSP candidates must have a bachelor’s
• Reject or suspend an application

degree and four (4) years professional
• Terminate or suspend a candidate’s safety experience to sit for the CSP exam.
eligibility
 Professional safety experience must meet
• Issue a reprimand
 the following criteria to qualify:
• Suspend, refuse to renew, or revoke
the credential(s)
 ** Professional safety must be the primary
function of the position. Collateral
• Terminate or suspend any status
duties in safety are not counted.
with BCSP

** The position’s primary responsibility
The Disciplinary Action Policy is located must be the prevention of harm to
at www.bcsp.org/About/Policies-Forms people, property, or the environment,
and provides detailed procedures for rather than responsibility for responding
bringing charges and for hearings related to to harmful events.
disciplinary charges. ** Professional safety functions must
be at least 50% of the position duties.
ANNUAL RENEWAL FEES BCSP defines full-time as at least
All who achieve a designation must pay an 35 hours per week. Part-time safety
annual renewal fee. That is prorated for the experience is allowed if the applicant
remainder of the year that their designation has the equivalent of at least 900 hours
was awarded. The current annual renewal of professional safety work during any
fees are listed at www.bcsp.org/safety- year (75 hours per month or 18 hours
certifications/at-a-glance. per week) for which experience credit is
sought.
Other fees may apply upon achieving a ** The position must be at a professional
designation. For example, individuals who level. This is determined by evaluating
pay their annual renewal fee late may incur the degree of professional charge by
a late charge or a reinstatement fee if BCSP which there is a reliance of employees,
has acted to terminate the designation. employers, or clients on the person’s
Unemployed credential holders may request ability to identify, evaluate, and control
a one-year waiver of the annual renewal fee hazards through engineering and/or
in writing only once during their history with administrative approaches.
BCSP. ** The position must have breadth of
professional safety duties. This is
determined by evaluating the variety
of hazards about which the candidate
must advise and the range of skills
involved in recognizing, evaluating, and
controlling hazards.
Once the above criteria is met for the CSP,
they can proceed to the online application
process as explained in Chapter 3.
31
31
 Make the most of YOUR degree
FAST TRACK TO THE CSP

32
 GRADUATE SAFETY PRACTITIONER®

PURPOSE OF THE GSP PROGRAM GSP TIME LIMITS

The GSP program is to recognize that an • Those holding the GSP designation
academic program in safety, health, and must meet the experience requirements
environmental practices meets BCSP QAP and apply for the CSP within six (6)
standards and that its graduates are prepared years of receiving the GSP.
for entry into (or advancement in) professional • Those graduating from a QAP must
safety practice. apply for the GSP within the program’s
“Applicable Dates” as noted on the GSP
QAP List. The QAP List can be found
QUALIFIED ACADEMIC PROGRAM at bcsp.org/GSP.
A Qualified Academic Program (QAP) is an
• Once a GSP has applied for and
academic degree program in safety, health,
becomes eligible for the CSP, they must
and environmental practices meeting
then meet the time limits associated
BCSP standards for participation in
the GSP
with the CSP certification.
program. Currently, BCSP defines a QAP as
a bachelor’s or master’s degree program in • Once a GSP has achieved the CSP, the
safety, health, and/or environmental practices GSP designation expires.
whose curriculum has been determined to be • GSPs must maintain active status until
a substantial match to the ASP examination the CSP is achieved.
blueprint by BCSP.
• GSP candidates who lose their GSP
status will have to achieve the ASP
GSP QUALIFICATIONS certification or another BCSP qualified
credential to qualify for the CSP
• You must have graduated from a current certification, but cannot reapply
QAP during its “Applicable Dates”. A full for the GSP.
list of QAPs eligible to participate in the
GSP program is located at bcsp.org/GSP.
• You must fill out a GSP application GSP FEES*
through My Profile at bcsp.org.
Application Fee: $0.00
• You must upload a copy of your official
transcript with degree awarded and date Eligibility Extension Fee**: $100.00
conferred. Renewal Fee: $140.00
• You must complete the application
Agreement and Validation form.

(acknowledging truthful information

* Please visit the BCSP website for the most
current prices.
has been provided, informing BCSP of
any criminal convictions or unethical ** Valid for an additional year of eligibility.
behavior, and agreeing to adhere to the Available only one time and within the last
BCSP Code of Ethics). 60 days of initial eligibility date.

33
 Utilize YOUR skills and training
FAST TRACK TO THE CSP

34
 TRANSITIONAL SAFETY PRACTITIONER

PURPOSE OF THE TSP PROGRAM TSP TIME LIMITS

The purpose of the TSP program is to • Applicants for the TSP designation must
recognize a program in SH&E practice apply within the program’s applicable
from a QEP that meets BCSP standards for period.
participation and that individuals completing • Those holding the TSP must apply for
the program are prepared for entry into (or and meet the education and experience
advancement in) professional safety practice. requirements for the CSP within six (6)
years of receiving the TSP.
• TSPs must maintain an active status until
QUALIFIED EQUIVALENT the CSP is achieved.
PROGRAM
• Once a TSP has applied for and becomes
A Transitional Safety Practitioner (TSP) eligible for the CSP, they must then meet
Qualified Equivalent Program (QEP) is a the time limits associated with the CSP
curriculum-based certificate, diploma, certification.
or international degree program in safety,
health, and environmental (SH&E) • Once a TSP has achieved the CSP, the
practices meeting the criteria and TSP designation expires.
standards set by BCSP for participation • TSPs who lose their TSP status will have
and demonstrating a substantial match to achieve the ASP certification or
to the Associate Safety Professional® another CSP qualified credential to
(ASP®) examination blueprint. qualify for the CSP and cannot reapply
for the TSP.

TSP QUALIFICATIONS
• You must apply within the program’s TSP FEES*
Applicable Period. A full list of QEPs Application Fee: $0.00
eligible to participate in the TSP
program is located at bcsp.org/TSP. Eligibility Extension Fee**: $100.00

• You must fill out a TSP application through Renewal Fee: $140.00
My Profile at bcsp.org.
• You must upload a copy of your official * Please visit the BCSP website for the most
credential and the date it was awarded. current prices.
• You must complete the application ** Valid for an additional year of eligibility.
Agreement and Validation form. Available only one time and within the last
(acknowledging truthful information has 60 days of initial eligibility date.
been provided, informing BCSP of any
criminal convictions or unethical behavior,
and agreeing to adhere to BCSP’s
Code of Ethics).

35
 This code sets forth the code of ethics and professional standards to be observed
by holders of documents of certification conferred by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals.
Certificants shall, in their professional activities, sustain and advance the integrity, honor,
and prestige of the profession by adherence to these standards:

1. HOLD paramount the safety and 5. AVOID deceptive acts that falsify
health of people, the protection of the or misrepresent their academic
environment and protection of property or professional qualifications.
in the performance of professional duties, Not misrepresent or exaggerate their
and exercise their obligation to advise degree of responsibility in or for the
employers, clients, employees, the public, subject matter of prior assignments.
and appropriate authorities of danger Presentations incident to the solicitation
and unacceptable risks to people, of employment shall not misrepresent
the environment, or property. pertinent facts concerning employers,
employees, associates, or past
2. BE honest, fair, and impartial; act accomplishments with the intent
with responsibility and integrity. Adhere and purpose of enhancing their
to high standards of ethical conduct with qualifications and their work.
balanced care for the interests of the public,
employers, clients, employees, colleagues, 6. CONDUCT their professional relations
and the profession. Avoid all conduct or by the highest standards of integrity
practice that is likely to discredit the and avoid compromise of their
profession or deceive the public. professional judgment by conflicts
of interest. When becoming aware
3. ISSUE public statements only in an of professional misconduct by a BCSP
objective and truthful manner and only certificant, take steps to bring that
when founded upon knowledge of the facts misconduct to the attention of the
and competence in the subject matter. Board of Certified Safety Professionals.

4. UNDERTAKE assignments only when 7. ACT in a manner free of bias with

qualified by education or experience in regard to religion, ethnicity, gender,
the specific technical fields involved. age, national origin, sexual orientation,
Accept responsibility for their continued or disability.
professional development by acquiring
and maintaining competence through 8. SEEK opportunities to be of constructive
continuing education, experience, service in civic affairs and work for
professional training, and keeping the advancement of the safety, health,
current on relevant legal issues. and well-being of their community
and their profession by sharing their
knowledge and skills.

Approved by the BCSP Board of Directors November 2, 2012

Effective January 1, 2013

36
NOTES
NOTES
 ISO/IEC 17024
Personnel Certification Program
#0646

BOARD OF CERTIFIED SAFETY PROFESSIONALS

8645 Guion Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268 USA
P: +1 317-593-4800 | F: +1 317-593-4400
bcsp.org
05/19