Top 10 HSE Advisor Certifications

Certifications for a Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) Advisor are important in the job market because they demonstrate that an individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their job properly. Companies are looking for certified HSE Advisors who have the expertise to identify potential risks and hazards, develop safety plans and policies, and provide guidance on how to comply with applicable regulations. In addition, certifications can help an HSE Advisor stand out among other applicants when applying for positions or promotions. Certifications also provide individuals with a competitive edge in the job market when competing for jobs that require specialized HSE qualifications.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for HSE Advisors and explain how they can help to advance an HSE Advisor's career.

What are HSE Advisor Certifications?

HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) Advisor Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the field of health, safety, and environmental management. The certification is awarded by the Institute of Occupational Health and Safety (IOHS).

The purpose of the HSE Advisor Certification program is to provide assurance that an individual has achieved a certain level of knowledge and understanding in the areas of health, safety, and environmental management. This certification demonstrates to employers that an individual has received training in these areas and can help them improve their organizational performance.

By obtaining HSE Advisor Certification, individuals are able to demonstrate their commitment to health, safety, and environmental management principles. In addition, this certification provides potential employers with evidence that an individual has acquired knowledge in these topics which can be beneficial for their organization. Additionally, having this certification may increase an individual’s employment prospects as employers look for candidates who have obtained this type of specialized training.

Overall, obtaining HSE Advisor Certification can provide numerous benefits for both individuals seeking employment within the field of health, safety, and environment management as well as organizations looking to hire qualified personnel. It serves as a valuable tool for demonstrating expertise in this area and can help open up doors for new opportunities.

Pro Tip: Make sure to keep up with the latest HSE advisor certification standards. This will ensure that you remain current on best practices and regulations, helping you to provide a high level of service to your clients.

Related: What does an HSE Advisor do?

Top 10 HSE Advisor Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to HSE Advisors today.

1. OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Safety and Health Certification

OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Safety and Health Certification is a voluntary program offered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). It provides workers with an introduction to safety and health hazards in general industry workplaces. The program covers topics such as hazard recognition, accident prevention, fire safety, personal protective equipment, machine guarding, and more.

The course takes approximately 10 hours to complete. It can be taken online or in person at an OSHA-authorized training center. Online courses are typically self-paced and can be completed over several days or weeks. In-person classes are usually held over two days and include lectures and hands-on activities.

The cost of the course varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $100-$200 per student for online courses and $150-$300 per student for in-person classes.

Upon successful completion of the course, students receive a wallet card from OSHA certifying that they have completed the 10-hour General Industry Safety and Health Course. This card is valid for five years from the date of issue.

2. OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Safety and Health Certification

OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Safety and Health Certification is a comprehensive safety training program designed to provide workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize, avoid, abate, and prevent safety and health hazards in the workplace. The program includes topics such as hazard recognition, avoidance, control, and prevention; hazard communication; personal protective equipment; machine guarding; ergonomics; fire protection; electrical safety; confined space entry; fall protection; bloodborne pathogens; welding, cutting, and brazing safety.

The OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Safety and Health Certification typically takes about 30 hours to complete. It can be taken either online or in a classroom setting. Online courses are self-paced while classroom courses are usually taught by an instructor over several days or weeks.

To get the certification, individuals must successfully complete all required coursework as well as pass an exam at the end of the course. The exam consists of multiple choice questions about the topics covered in the course.

The cost for an OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Safety and Health Certification varies depending on where you take it. Online courses typically range from $150-$400 while classroom courses can cost anywhere from $500-$1,000 depending on the provider.

3. Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH)

A Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) is a professional who is trained and qualified to identify, evaluate, and control workplace hazards that could cause injury or illness. They are responsible for assessing the health risks associated with hazardous materials, processes, and equipment in the workplace. The CIH certification is offered through the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH).

To become certified as a CIH, applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree in industrial hygiene or related field from an accredited college or university, and at least four years of full-time experience in the practice of industrial hygiene. Applicants must also pass an examination administered by ABIH. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as air sampling, chemical safety, ergonomics, noise control, radiation protection, toxicology, ventilation systems and more.

The cost to take the CIH exam varies depending on when you apply. The application fee is $250 plus a $50 processing fee for early applications (up to two months prior to the exam date). Late applications incur additional fees. Once you have passed the exam and been approved for certification by ABIH, there is an annual renewal fee of $100.

Overall it typically takes six months to one year to complete all requirements for becoming a CIH.

4. Certified Safety Professional (CSP)

Certified Safety Professional (CSP) is a professional certification program administered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). The CSP credential is designed to recognize safety professionals who meet the standards of knowledge, experience, and competence in the practice of safety and health.

To become a CSP, individuals must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in safety or a related field, plus four years of professional safety experience. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as risk management, occupational health and safety regulations, loss prevention techniques, hazard recognition and control methods, emergency response planning and more.

The process to become a CSP typically takes between 6-12 months depending on how quickly you can complete the required coursework and study for the exam. You will need to complete an application with BCSP and pay an application fee before you can take the exam.

The cost to become a CSP varies depending on which route you choose to take. If you are already certified in another area such as ASP or OHST, then there is no additional cost for taking the CSP exam. If not, then there is an application fee of $250 plus an exam fee of $395 for US residents or $495 for international residents.

5. American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH) Certified Safety Manager (CSM)

The American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH) Certified Safety Manager (CSM) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of industrial hygiene. The CSM certification is designed to demonstrate a commitment to safety and health, as well as a mastery of the principles, practices, and techniques of industrial hygiene.

It typically takes about six months to complete the requirements for the CSM certification. To become certified, applicants must first pass an exam administered by ABIH. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as safety management systems, hazard recognition and control, legal aspects of safety, emergency preparedness and response, environmental management systems, and occupational health programs.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also meet certain educational requirements. They must have completed at least a bachelor's degree in occupational safety or a related field from an accredited college or university; have at least four years of professional safety experience; and have completed at least 40 hours of approved continuing education courses within the past five years.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on whether you are an ABIH member or non-member. For members, the fee is $395; for non-members it is $495. There may also be additional fees associated with taking continuing education courses or obtaining transcripts from your school(s).

6. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Certified Hazard Control Manager (CHCM)

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Certified Hazard Control Manager (CHCM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate expertise in the management of occupational safety and health hazards. The CHCM certification is intended to provide employers with assurance that those holding the credential have the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively manage workplace safety and health programs.

The CHCM certification requires a minimum of five years of experience in managing safety and health programs, including at least one year of experience as a manager or supervisor. In addition, applicants must pass an examination that covers topics such as hazard identification, control methods, legal requirements, training and education, recordkeeping, emergency preparedness, and other related topics.

It typically takes four to six months to complete the CHCM certification process. During this time period, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documentation such as transcripts or proof of work experience. Once approved by NIOSH, applicants can then take the two-part exam which consists of a written section and a practical portion. After passing both parts of the exam, applicants will receive their official CHCM certificate from NIOSH.

The cost for taking the CHCM exam varies depending on where you take it; however it typically ranges from $500-$700 USD.

7. National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) Certified Professional in Environmental Health (CPEH)

The National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) Certified Professional in Environmental Health (CPEH) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of environmental health. This certification is designed to provide recognition for those who are actively engaged in the practice of environmental health and safety, as well as those who are interested in pursuing a career in this field.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the requirements for the CPEH certification. The process involves completing an application form, taking an exam, and submitting evidence of relevant experience or education. Applicants must also attend an approved training program or course prior to taking the exam.

To earn the CPEH certification, applicants must pass an examination consisting of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as environmental health regulations, principles of environmental health science, occupational safety and health, hazardous materials management, food safety and sanitation, air quality management, water quality management, vector control, solid waste management, emergency response planning and more.

The cost for the CPEH certification varies depending on the type of training program taken prior to taking the exam. The cost can range from $500-$2000 USD.

8. American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) Certified Construction Risk Management Professional (CCRMP)

The American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) Certified Construction Risk Management Professional (CCRMP) is a certification program designed to help individuals demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of construction risk management. This certification is intended for professionals who are involved in the planning, design, and implementation of construction projects.

To become certified as a CCRMP, an individual must pass an exam administered by ASSE. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as safety management systems, hazard identification and control, risk assessment and analysis, legal requirements and regulations, project management and communication. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CCRMP certification program, an individual must have at least two years of experience in construction risk management or related fields. Additionally, applicants must have completed at least 30 hours of professional development activities in the past five years related to construction risk management or related fields.

The cost for taking the CCRMP exam is $350 USD for ASSE members and $450 USD for non-members. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with applying for the certification program depending on the country in which you reside.

9. International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM) Chartered Member in Occupational Health & Safety

The International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM) Chartered Member in Occupational Health & Safety is a professional qualification that sets the highest standards for health and safety professionals. It is designed to recognize excellence in the field of occupational health and safety management.

To become an IIRSM Chartered Member in Occupational Health & Safety, you must have at least five years' experience in a relevant role and pass a rigorous assessment process. The assessment includes a written paper, an oral examination, and a practical project.

It typically takes around 18 months to complete the assessment process for IIRSM Chartered Member status. However, this can vary depending on your individual circumstances.

To get started on your journey towards becoming an IIRSM Chartered Member in Occupational Health & Safety, you will need to register with IIRSM as an applicant. This involves completing an online application form and paying the registration fee of £150 (or equivalent). You will then be assigned an assessor who will provide guidance throughout the assessment process.

Once you have successfully passed all three parts of the assessment process, you will be eligible to apply for Chartered Membership with IIRSM. This involves paying an annual subscription fee of £180 (or equivalent). As part of your membership package, you will receive access to exclusive resources such as webinars, newsletters, conferences, and mentoring opportunities.

10. British Safety Council Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health & Safety Practice

The British Safety Council Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health & Safety Practice is an internationally recognised qualification that provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of health and safety management systems, as well as the skills to implement them in the workplace. It is suitable for those who have responsibility for managing health and safety, or who wish to develop their knowledge and expertise in this area.

The diploma consists of six units, which are assessed through a combination of written assignments and examinations. The course can be completed within 12 months if studied full-time or up to 24 months if studied part-time.

In order to gain the diploma, learners must hold either a Level 3 qualification in health and safety (such as the NEBOSH Certificate) or demonstrate equivalent knowledge through relevant experience.

The cost of the diploma varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from £1,500 - £2,000 plus VAT.

Do You Really Need a HSE Advisor Certificate?

The answer to this question really depends on the situation. If you are working in an industry or job role where there are specific health, safety and environmental (HSE) requirements, then having a HSE advisor certificate may be beneficial. This is because it will demonstrate that you have the necessary knowledge and understanding of the relevant regulations and legislation that must be adhered to in order for your company to remain compliant with HSE standards.

However, if your job does not involve any HSE-specific roles or responsibilities, then having a HSE advisor certificate may not be necessary. In this case, it is important to assess whether the cost of obtaining such certification is worth it compared to the benefit that it would bring you. You should also consider whether any other qualifications or experience may be better suited for your particular job role.

Overall, whether or not you need an HSE advisor certificate will depend on your individual circumstances and career goals. If you believe that having such a certification could help you progress in your current job or industry, then it may be worth considering obtaining one.

Related: HSE Advisor Resume Examples

FAQs About HSE Advisor Certifications

1. What is a HSE Advisor Certification?

Answer: A Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Advisor Certification is a professional certification designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in the areas of health, safety and environmental management. The certification is offered by various organizations around the world and provides recognition of an individual’s expertise in these areas.

2. How do I become certified as a HSE Advisor?

Answer: Becoming certified as a HSE Advisor requires passing an exam administered by the certifying organization. The exam typically consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as health & safety regulations, hazard identification, risk assessment, and environmental compliance. In some cases candidates may also be required to complete additional training or courses prior to taking the exam.

3. What are the benefits of obtaining a HSE Advisor Certification?

Answer: Obtaining a HSE Advisor Certification can help individuals gain credibility within their field, obtain higher salaries and promotions, increase their job prospects, and demonstrate their commitment to health, safety and environmental management. It can also provide employers with assurance that personnel responsible for these areas have been trained to industry standards.

4. How long does it take to receive my certification after passing the exam?

Answer: The time frame for receiving your certification varies depending on the certifying organization; however most organizations process applications within 4-6 weeks of successful completion of the exam.

5. Does my certification expire?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require renewal every three years in order to maintain validity; however this varies depending on the certifying organization's policies so it is best to check with them directly for more information on renewal requirements.