Becoming a STS requires both training and certification. The training period can last from one day to two years, while the certification exam can last between one to three days. The certification exam must be retaken every two years because the profession of safety Supervisors is constantly changing. A certification exam can only be taken once. This makes it necessary for a worker to take a second certification exam in case he or she fails the first one.
There are many benefits of becoming a STS. The STS is the first level of safety specialist in an organization. This means that the person is granted access to more responsibility and improved job descriptions. The position of a STS usually comes with a higher wage and benefits. The certificate of completion of the training is also recognized by many companies as an important employee benefit. This enables a company to hire the individual without any problems.
Training in this profession is often done in specialized institutions that specialize in workplace training. In some cases, training may be provided by the employer. In other cases, the training can be given by the training institution itself. Both ways, the training period and certification exams are short. A typical training period of an STS is only a couple of hours.
There are a few things that should be understood about certification exams. First of all, the exam is not based on any theoretical knowledge. It is based on practical applications. Many courses use simulation methods and real life situations to help train individuals for the certification exam. Some companies even have a practice certification exam to help employees get ready for the real thing.
Another important point is to know that many employers have laid down specific duties that only apply to a certain kind of job. For example, those working in disaster areas have to be specially trained not just for the job at hand but for the disaster area as well. On the other hand, there are jobs that don’t require such specific abilities. For example, being a safety inspector doesn’t necessarily mean you will be required to undergo specialized training in the field. Instead, it simply means you have the knowledge and skills to do the job.
A safety supervisor has to manage people and their activities. Since this job usually requires supervision, the individual has to be organized, trustworthy, and responsible. This is why the individual has to pass a training course as well as an exam. Most states require employers to provide training for their workers. Usually the employer pays for the training. However, if your employer does not offer any training courses, you can study or take advantage of other sources that offer courses online or offline.
Even though safety training is very important, it is not the only requirement for becoming a safety supervisor. Employers also look for candidates who are able to work under pressure. This is because the job requires supervision and those supervisors have to be responsible enough to handle any situation that arises. Therefore, having a good personality is also important.
