A Certified Health and Safety Technician (CHST) is someone who possesses relevant qualifications and also meet the laid down standards in practicing and implementing Health and Safety.
This certification demonstrates competency concerning the Global Harmonized System (GHS) and health and safety principles. The certification cover engineering and administrative controls, work practices, and personal protective equipment used in each specific industry or trade. The certification promotes the importance of hazard and risk assessments and implementing controls on the identified hazards.
Importance of CHST in Workplace Safety
Aside from some importance mentioned earlier which included, promoting health and safety in the workplace through hazard and risk assessment, the CHST also provides competency in performing health and safety activities that prevent illnesses and injuries.
Other importance are:
- Enhances Safety Skills: It equips the Health and Safety Professional with relevant knowledge in implementing Health and Safety Standards and procedures.
- Aids Business: Having a certified professional boost the credibility of any organization which will directly influence business; giving any organization a competitive edge over their competitors.
Overview of CHST Certification Process
You may apply for certification at any time when you contact the awarding body like the BCSP (Board of Certified Safety Professionals).
If you are registering with BCSP, they will review your application once it is submitted to ascertain that you meet all certification requirements to be eligible for the certification. Once determined eligible, candidates will be given time to take and pass the certification’s examination.
NOTE: This process is different for every awarding body
But lets narrow it down to BCSP, they requires applicants, candidates, credential holders, and other status holders to disclose if they have been convicted of offenses or have had a professional license or credential suspended, revoked, or placed under probation, as outlined in the Criminal Conviction and Actions Against a Professional License or Other Credential policy. Information related to these matters is confidentially reviewed separately from other eligibility requirements and will be considered as part of the final credential application or recertification review, and at any time while status is held with BCSP. BCSP will evaluate the information and reserves the right to deny an application, revoke a candidate’s eligibility, or act against any status holder based on these matters.
Role and Responsibilities of a Certified Health and Safety Technician
The roles and responsibilities of a Certified Health and Safety Technician include:
- Conduct Safety Inspections
- Identify Hazards and Risks
- Develop Safety Procedures and Policies
- Train Employees on Safety Practices
- Investigate Accidents and Near Misses
- Ensure Compliance with Safety Regulations
- Put up Health and Safety Report where necessary
- Liaise with host community to enhance safety
CHSTs are saddled with a range of important responsibilities with the aim of maintaining a safe working environment. They achieve this goal through conducting thorough safety inspections, identifying potential hazards and risks and also play a role in developing and implementing safety procedures and policies, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Another primary duty is training employees on safety practices. They facilitate workshops and training sessions to educate workers on how to recognize and address safety hazards. In the unfortunate event of accidents or near misses, CHSTs investigate the root causes and implement preventive measures to avoid recurrence.
Requirements for CHST Certification
The requirement for being awarded a certification as a CHST is grouped into three (3);
- Education and Experience Requirements: Though there is not prerequisite for writing the CHST exams, but you need to be able to read and write, and also reasonable level of experience is required in the field of Health and Safety. For example the BCSP specifies that you should have three (3) years of experience in construction safety, health, and environment before you are certified with Construction Health and Safety Technician Certification.
- Examination Process: This is very simple, you must pass the CHST certification examination to be awarded the certification.
- Continuing Education and Renewal Requirements: You must pay renewal fee and meet the recertification requirements of your awarding body.
Core Competencies for CHST
Here are some of the core competencies required for a Certified Health and Safety Technician.
- Knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety Regulations
- Hazard Recognition and Control Techniques
- Emergency Response Procedures
- Communication Skills
- Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Abilities
- Leadership and Teamwork Skills
To thrive as a CHST you must posses skill sets essential for effectively managing workplace safety. This includes having deep understanding of occupational health and safety regulations and be proficient at recognizing and controlling workplace hazards and risks.
Also you must demonstrate strong communication skill which will enable you convey safety information clearly to employees. Finally, having a top-notch problem-solving abilities and leadership qualities will also be instrumental in having a successful career as a CHST.
Industries and Sectors Employing CHSTs
You may be asking where the Certified Health and Safety Technician fits it. Employment abounds almost everywhere for a CHST. They are indispensable in the construction industry, where the risk of accidents is particularly high.
The manufacturing facilities, healthcare facilities, and the oil and gas industry rely on CHSTs to maintain safety standards. The transportation & logistics companies and government agencies also benefit from the expertise of CHSTs in ensuring workplace safety.
Challenges and Limitations
While CHST play a crucial role in promoting workplace safety, they face certain challenges. One of the challenge is keeping up with evolving safety regulations, this can be like an up-hill task as it requires continuous learning and adaptation.
Another serious challenge is balancing safety priorities with operational demands, overcoming resistance to change and addressing language and cultural barriers in multicultural workplaces require effective communication and cultural sensitivity.
Summary of the challenges
- Keeping Up with Evolving Safety Regulations
- Balancing Safety Priorities with Operational Demands
- Overcoming Resistance to Change
- Addressing Language and Cultural Barriers in Multicultural Workplaces
Career Paths and Advancement Opportunities for CHSTs
CHSTs have diverse career paths and advancement opportunities within the field of occupational health and safety. They can specialize in specific industries or hazards, further enhancing their expertise.
Additionally, obtaining advanced certifications such as Certified Safety Professional opens doors to leadership roles in occupational health and safety departments. Some CHSTs may choose to transition into consulting or start their safety training businesses, leveraging their experience and knowledge to assist organizations in achieving their safety goals.
Conclusion
Certified Health and Safety Technicians play a crucial role in safeguarding the well-being of employees in various industries. Their expertise in identifying hazards, developing safety procedures, and training employees is instrumental in creating safe work environments.
As organizations prioritize safety and regulatory compliance, the demand for CHSTs continues to grow, offering rewarding career opportunities for individuals passionate about promoting workplace safety. Through continuous learning and professional development, CHSTs contribute significantly to ensuring workplace safety and fostering a culture of health and well-being.
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