However, that is not to say that safety training does not play a role in becoming one of those Associates. For instance, I recently completed two three-day courses for our state engineering department and one for our local fire department. During the training I gained a better understanding of the various safety codes that our companies have and about the differences among the states’ regulations. These are important topics that are not discussed much in the training courses.
After completing the training I went back to school and took the certification exam. Although I did not pass the first time (a reflection of my lack of studying), I did pass the second time. I believe the key factor was the amount of time I had to dedicate to safety training and the number of technical questions I encountered. It turned out that I was really concentrating on safety training rather than the certification exam.
I recommend that potential safety professionals first take a safety course and gain some practical experience by participating in a trainee job. This will allow the trainee to gain a better understanding of OSHA regulations, the practical application of these regulations, and the importance of following them closely. Once you have gained this practical experience you should then take the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) test administered by National Council for Construction Education and Research (NCECR). Once you pass the test you will be certified as a safety professional.
Associate’s degree holders are required to take additional training after they receive their certification. This training is often offered through vocational or community colleges. The advantage to this approach is that you can learn safety training at your own pace. You may wish to take the extra time to learn about some aspects of the certification process such as the NCECR examination.
It is not unusual for many safety professionals to repeat the certification exam multiple times to achieve their certification. This practice is perfectly acceptable as long as the individual is serious about becoming a safety professional and is committed to passing the certification exam. Many safety professionals have repeated the certification exam several times in order to get it all approved. However, this approach is not recommended for the individual who wishes to become a safety professional in the shortest time possible.
My best advice is for you to become an associate safety professional. By doing so you will get the job done and meet all of the requirements to be a safe safety professional. With that being said, if you are determined to pursue the safety career, I highly recommend passing the associate’s safety course. There are many advantages to taking the associate safety course. You will be prepared for the certification exam, you will have the practical experience to gain from working in this field, and you will gain valuable knowledge about working as a safety professional. In my opinion, this is the optimal way to become a safety professional.
To become a safety professional you must pass the NCECR exam. Once you pass, you will be placed in an exam category that helps you determine which state you will need to apply for licensing. In order to qualify for licensing in one state, you will be required to take and pass a test that is designated for your specific state. Once you have successfully completed the NCECR exam you will be issued your license and can work in whatever state you want. I highly recommend passing the exam as soon as possible as it can save you a lot of time down the road. After all, having a safe career is truly worth it.
