Top 11 EHS Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for EHS specialists in the job market because they demonstrate a commitment to professional development and mastery of relevant knowledge and skills. Employers want to be sure that their EHS specialist is well-versed in the latest safety regulations, industry best practices, and risk management techniques. Certification also shows potential employers that an individual has taken the time and effort to further their education in the field. Additionally, certifications can open up new career opportunities and provide access to a larger network of professionals.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for EHS Specialists and explain how they can help to advance an EHS Specialist's career.

What are EHS Specialist Certifications?

EHS Specialist Certification is a professional certification awarded to individuals who demonstrate expertise in the field of Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS). This certification is offered by a number of organizations such as the National Registry of Environmental Professionals (NREP) and the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP).

The EHS Specialist Certification recognizes individuals with experience and knowledge in the areas of environmental compliance, hazardous material management, occupational safety, industrial hygiene, emergency response planning, health risk assessment and other related topics. Those who obtain this certification have demonstrated a commitment to the advancement of EHS practices within their organization or industry.

The benefits of obtaining an EHS Specialist Certification include increased job opportunities and recognition as an expert in the field. With this certification, individuals can showcase their skills to potential employers and demonstrate their dedication to EHS best practices. It also serves as proof that they have taken steps to further develop their knowledge base on important topics such as hazardous waste management, occupational safety standards and more. Additionally, it can provide them with a competitive edge when applying for jobs or seeking promotions within their current organization.

Pro Tip: When considering an Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) specialist certification, make sure to research the requirements and qualifications of the program you are interested in to ensure it is accredited and meets your professional needs. Additionally, look for programs that offer continuing education credits to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in EHS.

Related: What does an EHS Specialist do?

Top 11 EHS Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to EHS Specialists today.

1. Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH)

A Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) is a professional who has received specialized training and certification in the field of industrial hygiene. Industrial hygienists are responsible for identifying, evaluating, and controlling workplace hazards that can cause injury or illness to workers. They use their knowledge of science, engineering, and mathematics to assess the risk of exposure to hazardous materials in the workplace.

It typically takes between two and four years to become a CIH depending on your background and experience. The process begins with completing an accredited university program in occupational safety and health or industrial hygiene. After completing this program, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam administered by the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH). This exam covers topics such as toxicology, air sampling, noise control, ergonomics, radiation protection, ventilation systems design, hazard communication programs, and other related topics.

Once you have passed the ABIH exam you will need to submit an application for certification along with proof of education and experience. You will also need to pay a fee which varies depending on the type of certification you are seeking. The cost for initial certification is usually around $600 USD while recertification fees are typically around $250 USD every five years.

In addition to passing the ABIH exam and paying the required fees, applicants must also demonstrate continued professional development by earning continuing education credits each year in order to maintain their certification status.

2. Certified Safety Professional (CSP)

Certified Safety Professional (CSP) is a professional designation from the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). The CSP designation is the highest level of safety certification available in the United States and Canada. It recognizes those who have demonstrated expertise in safety, health, and environmental practice.

In order to become a CSP, applicants must meet certain educational, experience, and examination requirements. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or higher in safety or related field from an accredited college or university; four years of full-time safety experience; and pass the BCSP’s comprehensive CSP examination.

The process typically takes between six months to one year to complete. The cost for the entire process depends on individual circumstances but can range from $400 to $1,000 for application fees and exam fees.

3. Associate Safety Professional (ASP)

An Associate Safety Professional (ASP) is a professional designation provided by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). This credential is designed to recognize safety professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and competency in the field of safety.

In order to become an ASP, an individual must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in safety or a related field, at least one year of relevant work experience, and passing the ASP exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as hazard identification, risk assessment, and safety program management.

The ASP exam is offered twice a year at various locations across the United States. The cost for taking the exam is $395 for BCSP members and $495 for non-members. It typically takes about four hours to complete the exam.

Once an individual has successfully passed the exam, they will receive their official ASP certificate from BCSP. This certificate will serve as proof that they have met all of the necessary qualifications to be considered an Associate Safety Professional.

4. Occupational Health and Safety Technologist (OHST)

Occupational Health and Safety Technologists (OHST) are professionals who specialize in the prevention of work-related injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. They are knowledgeable in a variety of areas related to health and safety, including industrial hygiene, ergonomics, hazardous materials management, emergency preparedness, and occupational health law. OHSTs use their expertise to develop safety programs for employers that meet or exceed applicable regulations.

It typically takes two to four years of full-time study to become an OHST. Most universities offer a Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Health and Safety Technology or a related field such as Industrial Hygiene or Environmental Health Science. Those interested in pursuing this career path should check with their local college or university for specific program requirements.

The cost of obtaining an OHST certification varies depending on the institution offering the program. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $6,000-$30,000 per year depending on the school and program chosen. In addition to tuition fees, students may be required to pay additional fees for books and supplies.

Those interested in becoming an OHST must also pass a certification exam administered by either the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) or the Institute for Safety and Health Management (ISHM). The cost of taking these exams varies but is usually around $300-$400 per exam.

5. Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM)

A Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) is a professional certification program for individuals working in the hazardous materials management field. The CHMM program is accredited by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM). It is designed to recognize and promote excellence in hazardous materials management, as well as provide a comprehensive body of knowledge for those working with hazardous materials.

To become a CHMM, applicants must have at least three years of full-time experience in the hazardous materials management field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Applicants must also pass the CHMM exam, which consists of four parts: Fundamentals of Hazardous Materials Management; Regulatory Compliance; Risk Assessment & Management; and Environmental Protection & Sustainability.

The cost to take the CHMM exam varies depending on where you take it. In the United States, it typically costs around $500-$700 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as application fees and proctor fees.

The length of time it takes to get your CHMM certification depends on how quickly you are able to complete all requirements for the program. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to obtain your CHMM certification depending on your individual circumstances.

6. Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST)

Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) is a professional certification program for individuals who are responsible for health and safety on construction sites. The CHST program is offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP).

The CHST certification is designed to demonstrate that an individual has the knowledge and experience necessary to identify, evaluate, and control potential hazards in the construction environment. It also shows that they have a comprehensive understanding of applicable laws, regulations, standards, and best practices related to construction safety.

It typically takes about two years to complete the requirements for the CHST certification. To become certified, applicants must pass a written exam and meet certain work experience requirements. Applicants must also complete an approved safety training program or equivalent educational coursework in order to be eligible for the exam.

The cost of getting certified as a Construction Health and Safety Technician varies depending on how you choose to pursue it. The BCSP offers several different packages that range from $300-$1,000 USD depending on the type of package chosen.

7. Environmental Protection Agency Lead Renovator Certification

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead Renovator Certification is a certification program that requires individuals to be trained in lead-safe work practices when performing renovations, repairs, and painting activities on pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities. The certification is designed to protect the public from exposure to lead dust generated during renovation activities.

To become certified as an EPA Lead Renovator, individuals must complete an 8-hour training course approved by the EPA. The training course covers topics such as identifying lead hazards, using lead-safe work practices, understanding federal regulations, and developing a lead safety program for your business.

The cost of the 8-hour training course varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $150-$250. Once you have completed the training course, you will receive a certificate of completion which must be submitted to the EPA in order to become certified as an EPA Lead Renovator. It usually takes about 2 weeks for the EPA to process your application and issue your certification number.

Once you have received your certification number from the EPA, you are required to renew it every 5 years by completing additional 8-hour refresher courses approved by the EPA.

8. Certified Environmental Manager (CEM)

Certified Environmental Manager (CEM) is a professional certification awarded by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM). The CEM credential is designed to recognize environmental professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the field.

The CEM program requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge in areas such as air quality, water quality, hazardous materials management, risk assessment and management, and environmental regulations. To be eligible for the CEM designation, applicants must have at least five years of full-time environmental management experience or equivalent part-time experience.

The process to become a Certified Environmental Manager typically takes 4-6 months. Applicants must first submit an application form and fee to IHMM. Once approved, applicants must then complete an online examination that covers the core topics of environmental management. After passing the exam, applicants will be required to submit documentation supporting their work experience in order to receive their certification.

The cost for the CEM program varies depending on whether you are an IHMM member or not. For non-members, it costs $595 USD to apply for the program and take the online exam. For IHMM members, it costs $395 USD to apply for the program and take the online exam.

9. Certified Hazardous Materials Practitioner (CHMP)

Certified Hazardous Materials Practitioner (CHMP) is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage hazardous materials safely and effectively. The program is administered by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM).

The CHMP certification requires applicants to have at least three years of experience in managing hazardous materials and/or hazardous waste operations, or to have completed an approved training course in hazardous material management. Applicants must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as regulations, safety, risk assessment, emergency response, and more.

The CHMP certification process typically takes several months from start to finish. After submitting an application and passing the required exam, applicants will receive their official certificate in the mail. The cost of the CHMP certification varies depending on the type of training required; however, it typically ranges from $500-$2,000 USD.

10. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Certification

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Certification is a voluntary program designed to ensure that workers in hazardous industries are properly trained and qualified to perform their job safely. The certification is offered by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), which is part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The NIOSH Certification Program requires that employers provide their employees with training on safety topics related to their specific job duties. This training must include instruction on proper use of protective equipment, safe work practices, emergency procedures, hazard recognition, and other related topics. After completion of the training, employers must submit documentation to NIOSH verifying that their employees have been adequately trained. Once approved, employers can then apply for the NIOSH Certification.

The amount of time it takes to get NIOSH Certification depends on a variety of factors such as how quickly the employer submits all required documents and how long it takes for NIOSH to review them. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one week to several months before an employer receives their certification.

To get NIOSH Certification, employers must first complete all necessary training requirements as outlined by NIOSH. They must also submit documentation verifying that they have completed these requirements along with any additional information requested by NIOSH. Once this information has been submitted, employers will receive notification when their application has been approved or denied.

The cost of obtaining a NIOSH Certification varies depending on the type of certification being sought after and the number of employees who need to be certified. Generally speaking, costs range from $50-$200 per employee depending on the complexity of the certification process.

11. American Board of Industrial Hygiene Certification

The American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have met the highest standards of knowledge and experience in the field of industrial hygiene. Industrial hygienists are responsible for protecting workers from workplace hazards such as chemical, physical, and biological agents.

To obtain ABIH Certification, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge and experience in industrial hygiene through an extensive application process. This includes submitting educational transcripts and work experience documentation, passing an examination, and completing a minimum number of continuing education credits.

The application process typically takes several months to complete. Applicants must also pay a fee to apply for certification and to take the exam. The fee varies depending on the type of certification applied for but generally ranges from $250 to $500.

Once certified, industrial hygienists must maintain their certification by earning continuing education credits every three years. They can do this by attending conferences or workshops related to industrial hygiene or taking online courses offered by ABIH-approved providers.

Do You Really Need a EHS Specialist Certificate?

Yes, an EHS (Environmental Health and Safety) specialist certificate is important for those looking to pursue a career in the field of environmental health and safety. An EHS specialist certificate demonstrates that an individual has the qualifications, knowledge, and expertise necessary to provide a safe and healthy work environment.

The EHS specialist certificate is issued by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). This certification indicates that the individual has met rigorous educational, experience, and testing standards set forth by BCSP. It also serves as proof that the individual is knowledgeable about best practices in environmental health and safety management. Furthermore, the certification provides employers with assurance that the individual possesses the knowledge necessary to maintain a safe workplace environment.

In addition to providing employers with assurance of an employee’s qualifications, an EHS specialist certificate can also open up opportunities for advancement within a company or organization. Many employers prefer to hire individuals who have obtained this type of certification as it demonstrates dedication to their profession as well as expertise in environmental health and safety management.

Finally, having an EHS specialist certificate can also help individuals stand out from other job applicants when seeking employment in this field. The certification can serve as evidence of commitment to professional development and serve as a symbol of excellence when competing against other candidates for a job opportunity.

Overall, obtaining an EHS specialist certificate is beneficial for those interested in pursuing a career in environmental health and safety management. It can demonstrate qualifications, provide employers with assurance of expertise, open up opportunities for advancement, and help individuals stand out from others when seeking employment in this field.

Related: EHS Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About EHS Specialist Certifications

1. What is an EHS Specialist Certification?

Answer: An EHS (Environmental, Health and Safety) specialist certification is a professional credential that demonstrates expertise in the field of environmental, health and safety management. The certification provides evidence of a level of knowledge and understanding necessary to work in this specialized area.

2. Who should get an EHS Specialist Certification?

Answer: Anyone who wants to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field of environmental, health and safety management should consider obtaining an EHS specialist certification. This includes professionals such as industrial hygienists, safety engineers, occupational health nurses, hazardous materials specialists, risk managers, consultants, etc.

3. How do I become certified as an EHS Specialist?

Answer: To become certified as an EHS specialist you must meet certain requirements set forth by the certifying body. These can include taking an exam or completing a coursework program approved by the certifying body. In addition to these requirements, you may also need to have at least two years of relevant experience in the field of environmental health and safety management before being eligible for certification.

4. What are the benefits of becoming an EHS Specialist?

Answer: Becoming an EHS specialist can help you advance your career by providing evidence that you possess advanced knowledge and skills related to environmental health and safety management. It can also give you greater credibility when applying for jobs or promotions within the industry or when competing for contracts with other companies. Additionally, having a recognized certification from a reputable organization may give you access to higher salaries or better job opportunities overall.

5. How long does it take to obtain an EHS Specialist Certification?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to obtain an EHS specialist certification will depend on what type of program or exam is taken as well as how much experience you have in the field prior to beginning your studies. Generally speaking, it takes anywhere from six months up to one year or more depending on your individual situation and commitment level.