Top 11 Safety Technician Certifications

Certifications for safety technicians are important in the job market because they offer employers an assurance that the technician has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their duties safely and effectively. Certifications demonstrate that a safety technician has undergone specialized training and is committed to maintaining professional standards. They help employers differentiate candidates with the necessary qualifications from those without, and may give a competitive edge when applying for jobs or promotions. Certifications also provide safety technicians with additional career development opportunities, as many organizations will only hire certified professionals. Finally, certifications give safety technicians a sense of pride and accomplishment, recognizing their hard work and dedication to their profession.

The purpose of this article is to review the most beneficial certifications for Safety Technicians and explain how they can help advance their career.

What are Safety Technician Certifications?

Safety Technician Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a certain level of knowledge and proficiency in the field of safety. This certification is designed to help ensure that people in safety-related roles have the necessary skills and qualifications to adequately protect workers and prevent accidents from occurring. The program covers topics such as hazard identification, workplace safety, risk assessment, accident investigation, emergency response, training and much more. By having a Safety Technician Certification, employers can be sure that their employees are well-trained in safety practices and procedures, thus providing them with peace of mind knowing that their workforce is safe and secure. The certification also helps demonstrate an individual’s commitment to their profession by showing that they have taken the time to become certified by a reputable organization. This can be especially beneficial for those looking for higher paying positions or promotions within the safety field.

Pro tip: Safety technician certification is essential for any safety technician working in hazardous environments. It provides a baseline understanding of safety protocols and standards, as well as the ability to assess risks and develop appropriate safety measures. It also helps to ensure that technicians are up-to-date on the latest industry developments and best practices.

Related: What does a Safety Technician do?

Top 11 Safety Technician Certifications

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

1. Certified Safety Professional (CSP)

A Certified Safety Professional (CSP) is a professional designation awarded by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). The CSP is the highest level of safety certification available and demonstrates an individual’s knowledge, experience, and commitment to safety.

To become a CSP, individuals must meet certain requirements including:

- Have at least a Bachelor's degree in safety or related field; OR have four years of full-time safety experience in a position where safety was the primary responsibility.

- Pass the comprehensive CSP Examination administered by BCSP.

- Demonstrate continuing professional development through participation in approved activities such as attending conferences, seminars, workshops, and other training programs.

The CSP examination can take up to eight hours to complete and covers topics such as hazard identification and control, accident investigation, ergonomics, environmental protection, occupational health and hygiene, risk management, emergency preparedness and response planning.

The cost of obtaining the CSP credential varies depending on whether you are an existing BCSP member or not. For non-members it costs $450 for the application fee plus $250 for the exam fee. For members it costs $250 for the application fee plus $250 for the exam fee.

2. Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH)

A Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) is a professional who has been certified by the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH). The CIH credential is one of the most respected and recognized qualifications in the field of industrial hygiene. CIHs are responsible for identifying, evaluating, and controlling environmental hazards that can cause injury or illness to workers. These hazards include chemical, physical, biological, and ergonomic factors.

It typically takes three years to become a CIH. During this time, individuals must complete an accredited college degree program in industrial hygiene or a related field such as occupational safety or environmental health. They must also gain two years of relevant work experience before taking the ABIH certification exam.

In order to take the ABIH certification exam, individuals must first submit an application and fee to the ABIH. Once approved, they must then pass a written examination administered by the ABIH. Upon successful completion of this exam, they will be awarded their CIH credential.

The cost for becoming a CIH varies depending on the individual’s background and experience level. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000-$2,000 to apply and take the certification exam. This fee includes study materials and other resources needed to prepare for the exam.

3. Occupational Health and Safety Technologist (OHST)

Occupational Health and Safety Technologist (OHST) is a professional designation that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the field of occupational health and safety. OHSTs are responsible for identifying, evaluating, and controlling workplace hazards to ensure the safety of employees. They also develop safety policies and procedures, provide training on safety topics, investigate accidents, and inspect workplaces to ensure compliance with regulations.

To become an OHST, individuals must complete a program accredited by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). The BCSP offers two levels of certification: Associate Safety Professional (ASP) and Certified Safety Professional (CSP). The ASP requires a bachelor’s degree in safety or a related field plus two years of experience in the safety field; the CSP requires a master’s degree in safety or a related field plus four years of experience in the safety field.

The cost of obtaining an OHST certification varies depending on the program chosen. Generally speaking, it can range from $500 to $2,000 for course materials alone. In addition to course fees, applicants must pay for application fees, exam fees, and any additional resources needed to prepare for their exams.

In most cases, earning an OHST certification takes between one and two years depending on prior education and experience. After completing all requirements for certification, applicants must pass an exam administered by BCSP in order to become certified as an OHST.

4. Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM)

A Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) is a professional certification offered by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM). The CHMM credential is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in hazardous materials management. This includes areas such as waste management, emergency response, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance.

It typically takes between six months to one year to obtain the CHMM credential. To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam administered by IHMM. The exam consists of three parts: a written test, a practical application test, and an oral examination.

The cost for the CHMM certification varies depending on the type of membership you choose with IHMM. For non-members, it is $495 for the initial application fee plus $175 for each part of the exam. For members, it is $425 for the initial application fee plus $125 for each part of the exam.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also complete continuing education credits every three years in order to maintain their certification status.

5. Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS)

Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to design, install, inspect, test, maintain and repair fire protection systems. It is administered by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

To obtain the CFPS certification, candidates must pass an examination that consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as fire protection system design, installation, inspection and maintenance. Candidates must also meet certain prerequisites before they are allowed to sit for the exam. These include a minimum of four years of experience in fire protection engineering or related fields; completion of an approved course in fire protection engineering or related fields; and successful completion of an NFPA-approved training program.

The CFPS examination is offered twice a year at locations throughout the United States. The cost for taking the exam is $350 USD. Upon successful completion of the exam, candidates will receive their CFPS certification which is valid for three years.

6. Certified Loss Control Professional (CLCP)

Certified Loss Control Professional (CLCP) is a professional designation awarded by the National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research. The CLCP designation recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of loss control.

The CLCP program consists of two courses: Principles of Loss Control Management and Advanced Loss Control Management. The Principles course covers topics such as risk management, safety, health, and environmental issues. The Advanced course focuses on more complex topics such as financial analysis, contract negotiation, and legal issues. Both courses must be completed within three years to earn the CLCP designation.

To get the CLCP designation, you must first complete both courses with a passing grade and submit an application to the National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research. The cost for both courses is approximately $1,200 plus applicable taxes and fees. After your application is approved, you will receive a certificate of completion that can be used to demonstrate your professional credentials to employers or clients.

In addition to completing the two courses, applicants must also pass an examination administered by the National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research in order to become certified as a CLCP. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics from both courses and costs approximately $125 plus applicable taxes and fees. Upon successful completion of the exam, you will receive an official certification document from the National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research indicating that you are now a Certified Loss Control Professional (CLCP).

7. Certified Safety and Health Manager (CSHM)

Certified Safety and Health Manager (CSHM) is a professional certification program offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). The CSHM credential is designed to recognize safety and health professionals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, experience, and commitment to the field.

The CSHM program requires applicants to pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as risk management, hazard recognition and control, occupational health, industrial hygiene, environmental management systems, emergency response planning, safety engineering, ergonomics, loss control strategies, safety training and communication.

It typically takes around six months to prepare for the CSHM exam. Preparation involves studying the BCSP Body of Knowledge (BOK), taking practice exams or courses from an approved provider such as American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP), or attending workshops or conferences related to safety and health management.

To become certified as a CSHM one must:

1. Meet eligibility requirements

2. Submit an application with required documents

3. Pass the CSHM exam

4. Maintain certification through continuing education credits

5. Renew certification every five years with proof of continuing education credits

The cost for the CSHM exam is $450 USD for BCSP members ($550 USD for non-members). There may be additional costs associated with preparation materials or courses needed to study for the exam.

8. Associate Safety Professional (ASP)

The Associate Safety Professional (ASP) is a certification program offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). It is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of entry-level safety professionals. The ASP credential is the first step in a professional’s journey toward becoming a Certified Safety Professional (CSP).

The ASP certification requires applicants to have a minimum of one year of safety experience and pass an exam that covers topics such as hazard recognition, accident investigation, safety management systems, and occupational health. The exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within three hours.

To get the ASP credential, applicants must submit an application form along with proof of their safety experience. They must also pay an application fee, which varies depending on whether they are members or non-members of BCSP. For members, the fee is $200; for non-members, it is $250. Once approved, applicants will receive their certification within 8-10 weeks.

In summary, to get the Associate Safety Professional (ASP) certification, applicants must have at least one year of safety experience, pass an exam covering various topics related to safety management systems and occupational health, submit an application form with proof of their safety experience, and pay an application fee ($200 for members or $250 for non-members). The process typically takes 8-10 weeks from start to finish.

9. Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST)

Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) is a certification program offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). This certification is designed to recognize safety professionals who have demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities in construction health and safety. The CHST credential is intended for those who are involved in the management of construction safety programs, including supervisors, safety directors, and other safety professionals.

The CHST certification requires applicants to pass an examination that covers topics such as hazard recognition, job site safety inspections, accident investigation, OSHA regulations, and emergency response planning. Applicants must also demonstrate at least four years of full-time work experience in the field of construction health and safety.

The exam can be taken either online or at a testing center. It takes about three hours to complete the exam. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on whether you take it online or at a testing center. The fee for taking the exam online is $295 USD while the fee for taking it at a testing center is $395 USD.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also submit proof of their work experience in order to become certified. Once all requirements are met and approved by BCSP, applicants will receive their CHST certification within 4-6 weeks.

10. Environmental Protection Agency Lead Renovator Certification

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead Renovator Certification is a certification program that requires individuals who perform renovation, repair and painting activities on pre-1978 housing or child-occupied facilities to be certified. This certification was created to protect the public from potential lead exposure associated with these activities.

To become certified, individuals must complete an 8-hour EPA Lead Renovator Initial course and pass the accompanying exam. The course can be taken either in person or online and covers topics such as lead safety practices, containment techniques, clean up methods, and disposal of lead contaminated materials.

The cost of the initial 8-hour course varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $150-$200. Once an individual has completed the initial course they can apply for their EPA Lead Renovator Certification which is valid for five years.

In addition to the initial 8-hour course, individuals must also complete a 4-hour refresher course every five years in order to maintain their certification status. The cost of this refresher course is typically around $100.

Overall, obtaining an EPA Lead Renovator Certification generally takes about one day and costs between $250-$300 for both the initial and refresher courses.

11. OSHA 10-Hour Outreach Training Program

The OSHA 10-Hour Outreach Training Program is a voluntary program designed to provide workers with safety and health training. It is intended for entry-level workers and provides basic awareness training on the recognition, avoidance, abatement, and prevention of safety and health hazards in the workplace. The program also provides information regarding workers' rights, employer responsibilities, and how to file a complaint.

The OSHA 10-Hour Outreach Training Program consists of two separate courses: the General Industry Course and the Construction Industry Course. The General Industry Course covers topics such as hazard communication, material handling, machine guarding, fire protection systems, personal protective equipment (PPE), electrical safety, fall protection systems, bloodborne pathogens, emergency action plans, recordkeeping requirements, and more. The Construction Industry Course covers topics such as excavation safety; scaffolding; ladders; hazardous materials; cranes & derricks; steel erection; welding & cutting; rigging & hoisting operations; hazardous energy control (lockout/tagout); powered industrial trucks; hand & power tools; fall protection systems; personal protective equipment (PPE); electrical safety; bloodborne pathogens; emergency action plans; recordkeeping requirements; and more.

The OSHA 10-Hour Outreach Training Program typically takes 10 hours to complete. Courses are offered by authorized instructors from approved organizations or employers who have been trained by an OSHA authorized trainer. To take the course you must register with an approved organization or employer offering the course.

The cost of the OSHA 10-Hour Outreach Training Program varies depending on your location and provider but typically ranges from $50-$150 per person.

Do You Really Need a Safety Technician Certificate?

Safety technicians play a vital role in the workplace, ensuring that workers are kept safe and healthy. As such, employers often require safety technicians to have a certificate of completion from an accredited program or institution. While having a certificate is not always necessary for every job, it can be beneficial in certain industries, such as construction and manufacturing.

Having a safety technician certificate demonstrates to employers that you have the knowledge and skills needed to keep workers safe on the job. It also shows that you understand applicable regulations and codes of practice related to safety and health. This knowledge can help employers reduce their risk of liability and demonstrate due diligence in protecting their employees.

In addition to providing evidence of your qualifications, having a safety technician certificate allows for more career opportunities. Employers may view those with certificates as more qualified than those without them, giving you an edge when applying for jobs. Furthermore, having this certification may make you eligible for higher-paying positions or promotions within your current organization.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a safety technician certificate will depend on the industry you work in and the specific requirements of each job opportunity. If your industry does not require certification but does value it as a credential, obtaining one could open up more career options for you in the future.

Related: Safety Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Safety Technician Certifications

Q1: What is a Safety Technician Certification?

A1: A Safety Technician Certification is a qualification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in safety practices, procedures, and regulations. It is designed to provide employers with assurance that the individual has the necessary skills to safely perform safety-related tasks.

Q2: How do I become certified as a Safety Technician?

A2: To become certified as a Safety Technician, you must complete an approved training program and pass an exam administered by a recognized certification body. The exact requirements vary depending on the organization granting the certification.

Q3: How long does it take to get certified as a Safety Technician?

A3: Depending on your prior experience and education level, it can usually take between six months and two years to obtain your certification.

Q4: What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Safety Technician?

A4: Becoming certified as a Safety Technician can help you stand out from other job seekers, demonstrate your commitment to safety standards, increase your chances of getting hired or promoted, and open up new career opportunities.

Q5: Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my certification?

A5: Yes, most organizations require that you complete certain continuing education activities in order to maintain your certification. These activities may include attending seminars or workshops related to safety topics, taking online classes, or completing other related coursework.