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Top 11 HSE Manager Certifications

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Updated 19 min read

Certifications are an important tool for a HSE Manager in the job market. They demonstrate to employers that a candidate has the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform the duties of a HSE Manager. Certifications provide a competitive edge since they show potential employers that the candidate is committed to their profession and dedicated to staying up-to-date on industry trends and regulations. Additionally, certifications provide evidence of professional competence and credibility within the field, which can help a HSE Manager stand out from other applicants. Finally, certifications can give employers confidence in the candidate’s ability to handle complex tasks and lead successful safety initiatives.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for HSE Managers, and explain how they can help further their career.

What are HSE Manager Certifications?

HSE Manager Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals who are responsible for managing health, safety, and environmental (HSE) programs with the necessary knowledge and skills to do so effectively. The program focuses on management best practices, compliance with applicable laws and regulations, risk management strategies, emergency preparedness planning, and other topics related to HSE management. By completing this certification program, individuals will be able to demonstrate their knowledge of HSE management principles and their ability to lead an organization’s HSE efforts.

Having an HSE Manager Certification can help organizations ensure that they have qualified personnel in place who have the necessary skills and knowledge to lead the organization's health, safety, and environmental initiatives. This certification can also help organizations demonstrate their commitment to providing a safe working environment for their employees by showing that they are taking the appropriate steps to comply with applicable laws and regulations. Additionally, having a certified HSE Manager may help reduce insurance costs by demonstrating that the organization has taken reasonable steps to mitigate potential risks associated with workplace operations. Finally, having a certified manager can also help boost employee morale as it shows that the organization values their safety and health.

Pro Tip: When considering HSE Manager Certification, make sure to research the different levels of certification available. There are a variety of certifications that can provide different levels of expertise and experience. Knowing which one is best for your career goals can help you decide which certification will be most beneficial for you to pursue.

Related: What does an HSE Manager do?

Top 11 HSE Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Safety Professional (CSP)

A Certified Safety Professional (CSP) is a professional designation awarded to individuals who demonstrate expertise in the field of safety and health management. The CSP credential is offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP), which was established in 1969 to promote the practice of safety and health management.

To become a CSP, an individual must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass an exam, and abide by a code of ethics. To qualify for the CSP credential, applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree in safety or a related field; four years of full-time safety work experience; and 40 hours of continuing education credits in safety-related topics.

The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as industrial hygiene, occupational health, ergonomics, risk assessment, hazard control, emergency preparedness, and environmental compliance. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $350 USD.

Once certified, CSPs are required to renew their credentials every five years by completing 40 hours of continuing education credits and paying an annual renewal fee. The cost for renewal is $100 USD per year.

2. Associate Safety Professional (ASP)

The Associate Safety Professional (ASP) is a professional certification offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). It is designed to recognize safety professionals who have achieved a basic level of knowledge and skill in the safety field. The ASP certification indicates that an individual has met the minimum qualifications for entry-level safety practice, and has demonstrated a commitment to lifelong learning and professional development.

To become an ASP, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least a high school diploma or equivalent; two years of relevant work experience; and passing the ASP exam. The exam covers topics such as risk assessment, hazard recognition, accident investigation, ergonomics, environmental health, occupational health, safety management systems, and other related topics.

The ASP exam can be taken online or in person at BCSP testing centers located throughout the United States. The cost of the exam is $250 USD. It typically takes about three hours to complete the test.

Once you pass the exam and meet all other eligibility requirements, you will receive your official ASP certificate from BCSP. This certificate is valid for five years and must be renewed every five years in order to maintain your certification status. Renewal fees are $150 USD per year.

3. Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH)

A Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) is a professional who specializes in the prevention of occupational illness and injuries through recognition, evaluation, and control of environmental hazards. These professionals are responsible for assessing workplace conditions to ensure that they meet government regulations and industry standards. They use their knowledge of industrial hygiene principles to identify potential hazards, evaluate risk levels, recommend controls, and monitor progress.

It typically takes three to five years of experience in the field before an individual can qualify for the CIH certification exam. To qualify, individuals must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in industrial hygiene or a related field such as safety engineering or chemistry. In addition, they must have at least three years of full-time experience in the field or four years of part-time experience.

To get certified as an industrial hygienist, individuals must pass the CIH certification exam administered by the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH). The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a practical portion. The written portion covers topics such as air sampling techniques, toxicology principles, ventilation systems design and operation, hazardous materials management, noise control principles, and workplace health surveillance programs. The practical portion requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to recognize workplace hazards and apply appropriate control measures.

The cost for taking the CIH certification exam varies depending on factors such as location and testing center fees. However, it generally costs between $500-$700 USD per attempt plus any applicable taxes or fees.

4. Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM)

Certified Hazardous Materials Managers (CHMMs) are professionals who specialize in the safe management of hazardous materials. CHMMs are responsible for identifying, evaluating, and controlling hazardous materials to protect workers and the environment from potential harm. They also provide guidance on how to properly handle, store, transport, and dispose of hazardous materials.

To become a CHMM, individuals must have a minimum of four years of experience in the field of hazardous material management or related disciplines. Additionally, they must pass an examination administered by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM). The exam consists of two parts: a written test and a practical assessment.

The cost to take the exam varies depending on whether you are taking it for the first time or renewing your certification. The cost for first-time applicants is $450 USD while those renewing their certification pay $250 USD.

The exam typically takes around three hours to complete and can be taken at any IHMM-approved testing center across the United States or online through ProctorU. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certification within six weeks via mail or email.

5. Occupational Health and Safety Technologist (OHST)

Occupational Health and Safety Technologists (OHSTs) are professionals who specialize in the prevention of workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. They work to ensure that workplaces are safe and healthy for employees. OHSTs have a deep understanding of occupational health and safety laws, regulations, policies, procedures, and best practices. They use their knowledge to create safety programs, inspect workplaces for hazards, investigate accidents, provide training on safety topics, and develop strategies to reduce risks.

It typically takes two years to become an OHST. The first year is spent completing an associate degree or certificate program in occupational health and safety technology. The second year is devoted to obtaining certification from a professional organization such as the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). Certification requires passing a rigorous exam covering topics such as hazard recognition, risk assessment, industrial hygiene principles, ergonomics principles, accident investigation techniques, emergency response planning, and more.

To get certified as an OHST you must meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least two years of full-time experience in the field or having completed an undergraduate degree in occupational health and safety technology. You must also complete the BCSP certification exam with a passing score.

The cost of becoming an OHST varies depending on the program you choose to pursue your certification through. Generally speaking it will cost around $1,000-$2,000 for tuition fees plus any additional costs associated with taking the BCSP certification exam such as registration fees or study materials.

6. Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST)

Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) is a professional certification program offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). It is designed to provide safety professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, evaluate, and control safety hazards in the construction industry.

The CHST certification requires applicants to have at least four years of full-time safety experience in the construction industry. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as hazard recognition, hazard control, risk assessment, safety management systems, and legal requirements. The exam is administered by Prometric Testing Centers.

It typically takes between two to three months to complete the CHST certification process. The cost varies depending on the type of application chosen but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD.

7. Certified Environmental, Health, & Safety Trainer (CET)

A Certified Environmental, Health, & Safety Trainer (CET) is a professional who has received specialized training in the areas of environmental, health, and safety. This certification demonstrates that the individual has attained a high level of expertise in these areas. The CET credential is offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP).

In order to become certified as a CET, an individual must meet certain requirements set forth by the BCSP. These include having at least five years of experience in safety and/or health-related fields, completing at least 40 hours of approved training courses related to safety and/or health topics such as hazardous materials management or industrial hygiene, passing a written exam administered by BCSP, and agreeing to abide by the BCSP Code of Ethics.

The process for becoming certified as a CET typically takes between six months and one year. During this time frame, individuals must complete all necessary coursework and prepare for the written exam. Additionally, individuals must submit an application form along with their transcripts and other required documents to BCSP for review.

The cost to become certified as a CET varies depending on factors such as whether or not an individual needs to purchase additional course materials or take additional classes beyond those required by BCSP. Generally speaking, however, it can range anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD.

8. Certified Risk Management Professional (CRMP)

Certified Risk Management Professional (CRMP) is a professional designation awarded by the Global Risk Management Institute (GRMI). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in risk management. The CRMP certification program provides a comprehensive education in risk management principles, practices, and techniques.

The CRMP certification program consists of four components: an online course, an exam, an application process, and continuing education credits. The online course covers topics such as risk identification, assessment and control; enterprise risk management; project risk management; operational risk management; financial risk management; legal and regulatory compliance; insurance and reinsurance; and crisis management. The exam tests the applicant's knowledge of the material covered in the online course.

The application process requires applicants to submit their resumes, letters of recommendation, transcripts from any relevant courses taken at accredited institutions, copies of any relevant certifications or licenses held, and other documentation as required by GRMI. Once all materials are submitted, applicants must pass an interview with a member of the GRMI board of directors before being approved for certification.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the entire CRMP certification process from start to finish. The cost for the program varies depending on whether you choose to take the online course or attend in-person classes but generally ranges from $2,500-$4,000 USD.

9. Global Risk Management Professional (GRMP)

Global Risk Management Professional (GRMP) is a certification for professionals in the risk management field. It is offered by the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP). The GRMP certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and experience in managing global risks.

The GRMP certification requires applicants to have at least three years of professional experience in risk management, or five years of experience in a related field such as finance or accounting. Applicants must also pass a four-hour exam that covers topics such as financial markets, corporate governance, and risk management principles.

It typically takes about six months to complete the GRMP certification process, including preparation for the exam and completing any other required steps.

To get the GRMP certification, applicants must first register with GARP and pay a registration fee of $225 USD. They then need to take and pass the four-hour exam which costs $450 USD. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certificate within two weeks of passing the exam.

In total, it costs approximately $675 USD to obtain the Global Risk Management Professional (GRMP) certification from GARP.

10. Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS)

Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) is a professional certification program offered by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The CFPS program is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of fire protection. The program is intended to promote professionalism, enhance the quality of fire protection services, and encourage continuing education in the field.

To become certified as a CFPS, an individual must complete an approved course of study and pass an examination. The course typically consists of four courses on topics such as fire prevention, fire protection systems, building construction for fire protection, and legal aspects of fire safety. The course can be completed online or in-person at an approved training center.

The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions that cover all areas of the course material. It takes approximately three hours to complete the exam. To pass the exam, applicants must score at least 75%.

The cost to become a CFPS varies depending on how you choose to take the courses and prepare for the exam. In general, it will cost between $1,500 and $2,000 for tuition and materials for the four required courses plus any additional preparation materials needed for studying for the exam. There is also an application fee when you apply to take the exam which is around $100-$200 depending on your location.

11. Emergency Medical Technician-Basic/Paramedic (EMT-B/P).

An Emergency Medical Technician-Basic/Paramedic (EMT-B/P) is an individual who has completed a course of study and training in order to provide pre-hospital emergency medical care. EMT-B/P's are trained to assess, treat, and transport patients in a variety of medical emergencies.

The amount of time it takes to become an EMT-B/P depends on the state you live in and the type of program you choose. Most states require that you complete a minimum of 120 hours of instruction, although some may require more. In addition, most states require that you pass both written and practical examinations before becoming certified.

In order to become an EMT-B/P, you must first complete an approved training program. These programs can be found at community colleges, universities, or through private organizations such as the American Red Cross or National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT). Once you have completed your training program, you will need to take the NREMT’s certification exam in order to become certified as an EMT-B/P.

The cost for becoming an EMT-B/P varies depending on your location and the type of program you choose. Generally speaking, tuition for a basic course ranges from $500-$1,000 while more advanced courses can cost up to $2,000 or more. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with books and supplies as well as fees for taking the certification exam.

Do You Really Need a HSE Manager Certificate?

The short answer to this question is yes. Having an HSE (Health, Safety and Environment) Manager Certificate can be a valuable asset to any business or organization. It demonstrates that the holder has achieved a certain level of education and training in the areas of health, safety and environmental management. This is important for businesses as it helps create a safe working environment for employees, customers and visitors which can lead to increased productivity and profitability.

Having an HSE Manager Certificate also shows potential employers that the holder has a strong understanding of health and safety regulations, as well as knowledge of how to implement them in the workplace. This will help employers ensure that their workers are protected from any potential risks or hazards that may exist in their workplace, as well as helping them comply with any relevant laws or regulations.

Finally, having an HSE Manager Certificate can open up career opportunities for individuals who wish to pursue a role within this field. With this qualification, they can often apply for positions such as health and safety manager or consultant which have higher salaries than more general roles. Furthermore, having this certificate could also help individuals get promoted quicker within their current job role.

In conclusion, having an HSE Manager Certificate is beneficial for both employers and employees alike. It helps create a safe working environment whilst also providing individuals with the opportunity to pursue higher-level roles within this field if they choose to do so.

Related: HSE Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About HSE Manager Certifications

1. What is a Health and Safety Manager Certification?

Answer: A Health and Safety Manager Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in occupational health and safety management. It can be obtained from professional organizations such as the International Board of Environmental, Health and Safety Management (IBEHSM).

2. What are the requirements for obtaining a HSE Manager Certification?

Answer: The requirements for obtaining a HSE Manager Certification vary depending on the certifying organization, but typically include at least two years of experience in health and safety management, completion of an approved training program, passing a written exam, and maintaining continuing education credits.

3. How long does it take to obtain a HSE Manager Certification?

Answer: The length of time required to obtain a HSE Manager Certification varies depending on the certifying organization and the individual’s experience level. Generally, it takes between six months to one year to complete all the necessary requirements.

4. How much does it cost to obtain a HSE Manager Certification?

Answer: The cost of obtaining a HSE Manager Certification varies depending on the certifying organization; however, most organizations charge an initial application fee plus an annual renewal fee.

5. Are there any other benefits to having a HSE Manager Certification?

Answer: Yes! Having a HSE Manager Certification can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs in health and safety management or related fields. Additionally, having this certification may qualify you for higher salaries or promotions within your current job.

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Brenna Goyette

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Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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