Top 10 Safety Inspector Certifications

Certifications are essential for safety inspectors in the job market as they demonstrate to employers that the individual has a comprehensive knowledge of safety regulations and procedures. Certifications indicate that an individual has taken the time to gain additional training and education that sets them apart from other applicants. Furthermore, certifications provide assurance to employers that an individual is qualified and competent in their field of expertise. In addition, certifications are often required by some employers before a safety inspector can be hired.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Safety Inspectors and explain how they can help to enhance a Safety Inspector's career.

What are Safety Inspector Certifications?

Safety inspector certification is a program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to identify, assess, and mitigate safety risks in the workplace. It is designed to ensure that inspectors are able to recognize potential hazards, evaluate their severity, and develop plans for mitigating them. This certification can help organizations ensure the safety of their employees by providing an independent evaluation of a workplace’s safety protocols.

Safety inspector certification provides inspectors with the ability to identify potential risks and develop strategies for reducing or eliminating them. By having an inspector certified as a safety specialist, companies can rest assured that their workplace meets all applicable safety regulations and standards. Additionally, certified safety inspectors can provide valuable insight into how best to maintain safe working conditions over time. This could include recommending certain equipment upgrades or changes in processes or procedures to reduce risk.

Overall, safety inspector certification is an invaluable tool for ensuring the health and well-being of employees by helping employers identify and address potential risks before they become hazardous situations.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the various safety inspector certifications available and ensure you are properly trained and certified prior to beginning any inspection work. Additionally, it is essential to stay up-to-date on all applicable regulations, as changes in safety requirements can occur frequently.

Related: What does a Safety Inspector do?

Top 10 Safety Inspector Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Safety Inspectors today.

1. OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certification

OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certification is an educational program designed to provide safety training for workers in the construction industry. It is a voluntary program that can be completed online or in a classroom setting. The program consists of 10 hours of instruction on topics such as hazard recognition, fall protection, scaffolding, electrical safety, personal protective equipment, and more.

The OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certification typically takes around two days to complete. It is available both online and in a classroom setting. Online courses are self-paced and can be completed at your own convenience; however, you must finish the course within six months of registering for it. Classroom courses are offered by approved providers throughout the United States and usually take place over two consecutive days.

The cost of the OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certification varies depending on the provider you choose to take the course from; however, it typically ranges from $50 - $150 per person.

Once you have successfully completed the course, you will receive a wallet card showing that you have earned your certification. The certification is valid for five years from the date of completion.

2. OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certification

OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certification is a certification program offered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The certification provides workers in the construction industry with an understanding of safety and health hazards on the job site. It covers topics such as fall protection, scaffolding, electrical safety, personal protective equipment, hazard communication, and more.

The OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certification course is an online self-paced program that typically takes about 30 hours to complete. The course material is divided into modules that cover different aspects of safety and health in the construction industry. Upon completion of the course, participants receive a certificate of completion from OSHA.

To get the OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certification, you must first register for the course online at osha.gov or through an approved training provider. Once registered, you will be given access to the online course material which can be completed at your own pace within six months. After completing all modules successfully, you will receive your certificate via email or mail.

The cost of getting an OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certification varies depending on where you take the course from. Generally speaking, it costs around $150-$200 for online courses offered directly by OSHA or approved training providers.

3. Certified Safety Professional (CSP)

Certified Safety Professional (CSP) is a professional certification offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). The CSP credential is recognized as the highest level of safety certification available in the United States and Canada. It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities in safety management and related disciplines.

To earn the CSP credential, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass an exam, and agree to abide by a code of ethics. The educational requirements include a minimum of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in occupational safety, health, or a related field such as engineering or industrial hygiene. Applicants must also have at least four years of professional safety experience within the past 10 years.

The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as risk assessment and control; workplace safety; environmental health; hazardous materials management; emergency response planning; legal issues; and communication strategies. Candidates must achieve a passing score on the exam to be eligible for certification.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all requirements for the CSP credential. To get started, applicants must submit an application package that includes their education transcripts, proof of work experience, and payment for the application fee ($200 USD). After submitting their application package, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the exam. Once they have passed the exam, they will need to submit additional paperwork including proof of continuing education credits every three years in order to maintain their certification status.

The total cost for obtaining the CSP credential varies depending on factors such as application fees ($200 USD), exam fees ($250 USD), membership fees ($100 USD per year), and continuing education costs (varies).

4. Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH)

A Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) is a professional who specializes in the identification, evaluation, and control of environmental hazards in the workplace. They are trained to assess and monitor hazardous substances, such as chemicals, dusts, fumes, radiation, and noise. CIHs also develop strategies for controlling these hazards to protect workers’ health.

To become a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), you must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in industrial hygiene or related field from an accredited college or university. You must also have at least three years of professional experience in industrial hygiene or related field. Additionally, you must pass the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH) certification exam. The ABIH exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral examination.

The cost to become a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) varies depending on the type of program you choose to pursue. Most programs require fees for tuition and other expenses associated with taking the ABIH exam. The total cost can range from $2,000 - $4,000 USD depending on your program choice.

It typically takes about one year to complete all requirements necessary for becoming a CIH including coursework, exams and professional experience. Once all requirements are fulfilled and you pass the ABIH exam, you will be awarded your CIH certification from ABIH which is valid for five years before needing renewal.

5. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Certified Inspector

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Certified Inspector program is a voluntary certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of occupational safety and health. The program is designed to provide employers with an objective measure of an individual’s qualifications as an inspector.

In order to become a NIOSH Certified Inspector, applicants must successfully complete a comprehensive training course and pass an exam. The training course typically takes three to four days to complete and covers topics such as hazardous materials management, workplace safety inspections, hazard recognition, accident investigation techniques, and applicable laws and regulations. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions based on the material covered in the training course.

To get certified as a NIOSH Certified Inspector, applicants must submit their application along with proof of completion of the required training course. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their certificate from NIOSH.

The cost for becoming a NIOSH Certified Inspector varies depending on the provider offering the training course; however it typically ranges from $500 - $1,000 USD.

6. American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) Certified Safety Inspector

The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) Certified Safety Inspector is a certification program designed to recognize safety professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of safety inspection. The certification is designed to validate the professional’s ability to identify, evaluate, and control workplace hazards.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least two years of safety-related work experience or a bachelor's degree in safety or a related field. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by ASSP. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions covering topics such as hazard identification and evaluation, accident investigation and prevention, and occupational health and safety management systems.

It typically takes about four weeks for applicants to receive their results after taking the exam. If successful, applicants will be awarded the ASSP Certified Safety Inspector credential.

The cost for the certification program varies depending on the type of membership you hold with ASSP. For non-members, it costs $400 USD; for members it costs $300 USD; and for student members it costs $200 USD.

7. American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH) Certified Industrial Hygienist

The American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH) Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) credential is a professional certification that is awarded to individuals who demonstrate competency in the practice of industrial hygiene. The CIH designation is recognized worldwide as the premier certification for industrial hygiene professionals.

To become an ABIH Certified Industrial Hygienist, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an examination administered by the ABIH. Eligibility requirements include having a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in industrial hygiene or a related field, plus four years of relevant work experience.

The CIH exam consists of two parts: Part I, which covers general principles and concepts, and Part II, which covers specific topics such as toxicology, sampling methods, and control strategies. The exam takes approximately six hours to complete and is offered twice a year at various locations throughout the United States.

The cost to take the CIH exam varies depending on when you register; however, it typically ranges from $600-$700 USD. After passing the exam, there is an annual recertification fee of $125 USD.

8. International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) Certified Electrical Inspector

The International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) Certified Electrical Inspector (CEI) is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated professional competency in the field of electrical inspection. The CEI certification is designed to ensure that certified inspectors possess the knowledge and skills necessary to perform electrical inspections in accordance with applicable codes, standards, and regulations.

In order to become an IAEI Certified Electrical Inspector, applicants must meet certain criteria and pass an examination. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least five years of experience as an electrical inspector or related work experience. They must also have completed a minimum of 40 hours of approved continuing education courses related to the field.

To get the CEI certification, applicants must first submit a completed application form to IAEI along with supporting documentation such as proof of experience and education. Once their application is approved, they can then register for the exam which typically takes place twice per year in June and December. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as safety codes and regulations, installation practices, wiring methods, equipment testing procedures, and more.

The cost for taking the IAEI Certified Electrical Inspector exam varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $300-$400 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with submitting your application or obtaining continuing education credits.

9. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Fire Prevention Inspector

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Fire Prevention Inspector is a professional certification program that provides a comprehensive understanding of fire prevention and inspection techniques. It is designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, evaluate, and control fire hazards in any type of building or structure.

To become an NFPA Certified Fire Prevention Inspector, you must complete a two-part program consisting of an online course followed by an in-person exam. The online course covers topics such as fire safety codes, inspection procedures, and hazard identification. The in-person exam tests your knowledge of these topics as well as your ability to apply them in real-world scenarios.

The cost of the NFPA Certified Fire Prevention Inspector program varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. The program can be completed in approximately four weeks if you are able to dedicate yourself to studying for the exam full time.

In order to become certified, you must pass both parts of the program with a score of at least 80%. Once certified, you will receive a certificate valid for three years that can be renewed by taking continuing education courses or retaking the exam every three years.

10. National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) Certified Environmental Health Inspector

The National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) Certified Environmental Health Inspector (CEHI) is a professional certification program that provides recognition to individuals who demonstrate expertise in the field of environmental health. This certification is designed for those who work in public health and environmental protection, and it allows them to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the areas of food safety, hazardous materials management, water quality, air quality, housing and occupancy standards, vector control, radiation safety, and more.

In order to become certified as an NEHA CEHI, applicants must meet certain requirements including holding a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with coursework in environmental health sciences or related fields; having at least three years of documented experience in environmental health; passing a written examination; and completing continuing education credits every two years.

The cost of the NEHA CEHI certification varies depending on the applicant’s level of experience. For those with less than three years of experience, the cost is $450 for members of NEHA and $550 for non-members. For those with three or more years of experience, the cost is $350 for members and $450 for non-members.

The written exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions that cover topics such as food safety regulations, hazardous materials management principles, water quality standards, air quality regulations, housing and occupancy standards enforcement strategies, vector control methods, radiation safety principles and practices, etc. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

Once all requirements have been met and passed successfully by the applicant they will receive their official certification from NEHA that will be valid for two years before needing to renew it through continuing education credits.

Do You Really Need a Safety Inspector Certificate?

Safety inspectors are an important part of any workplace. They are responsible for ensuring that all safety protocols and procedures are followed and enforced in the workplace. As such, having a Safety Inspector Certificate is essential for many different types of jobs, especially those related to health and safety.

The Safety Inspector Certificate is awarded by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). It verifies that the holder has acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to be a competent safety inspector in their chosen field. This certificate also indicates that the holder has been trained to recognize potential hazards, evaluate risk levels, and determine what corrective measures need to be taken in order to ensure that a safe work environment is maintained.

Having a Safety Inspector Certificate can open up many career opportunities for those seeking work in this field. Many companies will require applicants to have this certification before they can be hired as safety inspectors or other positions related to safety management. Additionally, having this certification can help individuals stand out from other candidates when applying for these jobs. It shows employers that they have taken the time to become certified in their chosen profession, which demonstrates dedication and commitment on their part.

In addition, having a Safety Inspector Certificate can give individuals access to resources, training courses, and updated information on current regulations related to health and safety standards. This ensures that they are always up-to-date with the latest industry trends and regulations so that they can effectively carry out their duties as a safety inspector.

Overall, having a Safety Inspector Certificate is an invaluable asset for anyone interested in pursuing a career in this field. While it may not be required for every job opportunity available, it is certainly beneficial for those looking to excel in this area of work.

Related: Safety Inspector Resume Examples

FAQs About Safety Inspector Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a safety inspector?

Answer: To become a safety inspector, you must have a Bachelor’s degree in occupational health and safety or equivalent experience, complete an approved training program and pass the certification exam.

2. How long does it take to become certified as a safety inspector?

Answer: The time it takes to become certified can vary depending on the individual’s experience and the requirements of the certification program. Generally, it takes several months of study and preparation before taking the certification exam.

3. What is included in a safety inspector certification program?

Answer: Safety inspector certification programs typically include topics such as workplace hazards, risk assessment, hazard control measures, emergency response planning and other related topics.

4. How often do I need to renew my safety inspector certification?

Answer: Most certifications require renewal every three years in order to maintain current knowledge and skills in occupational health and safety regulations.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements for safety inspectors?

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations require ongoing education or professional development activities in order to maintain their certification status. This may include attending seminars or workshops, participating in online courses or completing self-study materials related to occupational health and safety regulations.