Certified Safety Professional®

Complete Guide to the CSP

APPLICATION AND EXAMINATION INFORMATION
THIRD EDITION | OCTOBER 2017
 © 2017 Board of Certified Safety Professionals,
Indianapolis, Indiana USA

All rights reserved.

A BCSP Publication

All or any part of this document may be freely copied and distributed with the
following restrictions: Excerpts, in any form or medium, must include a formal statement
acknowledging that the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) is the owner of the
copyrighted material excerpted from this document. Copies and redistributions of this
whole document, in any form or medium, must include the entire copyright notice
and the restrictions shown on this page.

BCSP is committed to impartiality and objectivity in every aspect of our

operation. We have intentionally structured ourselves to segregate responsibilities
in our organization to facilitate this impartiality and objectivity. BCSP also evaluates each
application individually without regards to age, gender, race, religion, national origin,
marital status, disability, or sexual orientation.

This publication is not intended to guarantee that the user will pass an exam,
become certified or in general may not cover every aspect of the certification process.
Additionally, this publication is not considered training or preparatory in any manner.
BCSP makes no promises or warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, of the
actions of third party organizations.

This Publication is subject to change without notice at anytime.

Complete Guide to the CSP®

Third Edition | October 2017
TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1 | INTRODUCTION 5

CHAPTER 2 | CERTIFICATION SUMMARY 7

CHAPTER 3 | APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS 10

CHAPTER 4 | PREPARING FOR THE EXAMINATION 12

CHAPTER 5 | EXAMINATION OVERVIEW 14

CHAPTER 6 | EXAMINATION SAMPLE QUESTIONS 20

CHAPTER 7 | AFTER ACHIEVING CERTIFICATION 23

CHAPTER 8 | THE GSP DESIGNATION 28

DISCLAIMER:
An individual’s status with BCSP is an indicator that an individual has completed a combination of
defined education, experience, and examination requirements. However, certification is not a guarantee
or assurance of the competence or ability of any particular individual. Further, given the rapid changes
in the field, BCSP cannot warrant that any examination and other certification materials will at all times
reflect the most current state of the art.

BCSP disclaims liability for any personal injury, property or other damages of any nature whatsoever,
whether special, indirect, consequential or compensatory, directly or indirectly resulting from the
certification program or the acts or omissions of any person who has been certified by BCSP.

In conducting the certification program, including issuing certifications, BCSP is not undertaking to
render professional or other services for or on behalf of any person or entity, nor is BCSP undertaking
to perform any duty owed by any person or entity to someone else. Anyone using the services of a
person who has been certified should rely on his or her own independent judgment as appropriate
in determining the exercise of reasonable care in any given circumstances.
4
CHAPTER 1 | INTRODUCTION

The Certified Safety Professional® How to Use This Guide

(CSP®) Certification This guide provides you with in-depth
BCSP awards the Certified Safety Professional information regarding the application process,
to individuals who demonstrate competency examination process and the rules and
and work full-time in a professional position procedures essential in retaining the CSP
where at least 50% of duties are safety program certification after you achieve it. Reading
development and risk assessment devoted and following the suggestions and rules in this
to the prevention of harm to individuals in guide will help you navigate your path to the
the workplace environment. Whether your CSP certification.
career goals include seeking a new position,
Visit bcsp.org and click on “My Profile” to
moving up in your current organization or
create an account and apply for your desired
moving to private practice, you can accelerate
certification(s). If you need further assistance
your opportunities by achieving the Certified
you may contact the Certification Services
Safety Professional (CSP) certification. You
Department at +1 317-593-4800 or by email
can improve your chances for success, being
at [email protected].
selected for leadership and senior positions,
and increased salary through the CSP
Important Information
credential. BCSP offers you the opportunity
to rise above the competition by adding the For the most current version of this publication,
CSP certification to your portfolio. please visit bcsp.org/CSP.

As a candidate or certificant you are solely

Purpose of This Guide
responsible to keep BCSP informed of your
The purpose of this guide is to walk you current mail and email address. If either
through the process of applying for and taking address changes, you must notify BCSP. You
the examination leading to the CSP certification. could lose your credential or eligibility status
This guide is the first step to help you achieve if you miss important notifications related
the credential. to your credential.

APPLY
ONLINE  DETERMINED ELIGIBLE
ONE YEAR ELIGIBILITY SCHEDULE EXAM

START HERE
PURCHASE
$ SIT FOR

EXAM
THE CERTIFICATION PROCESS EXAM

FIVE-YEAR Recertification FAIL

PAY EXAM FEE


ANNUAL RECEIVE
RENEWAL FEE
MAINTAIN PASS
CERTIFICATION CERTIFICATION EXAM

5
About BCSP Certifications
BCSP is recognized as a leader in high-quality credentialing Certified Safety Professional®
for Safety, Health, and Environmental (SH&E) practitioners.
• has been in operation for more than 40 years with over
BCSP establishes standards for and verifies competency in 40,000 CSPs certified
professional safety practice and evaluates certificants for
• is the premier certification in the safety profession
compliance with recertification requirements. BCSP also
operates technician, technologist, supervisory, and trainer • covers a wide range of safety, health and environmental
(SH&E) practice disciplines
SH&E certifications that provide additional career paths for
safety practitioners.
Safety Management Specialist
Since 1969, over 59,000 individuals have achieved the • demonstrates management skills required for an
CSP, SMS, ASP, OHST, CHST, STS, STSC or CET credential. organization’s safe operation, including defining and
BCSP is a not-for-profit corporation with headquarters utilizing safety management systems
in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Associate Safety Professional®
Career Information
• demonstrates a broad scope of knowledge of SH&E
For details on careers in SH&E, download from the BCSP practice
website: • serves as one of several approved credentials meeting
requirements for the CSP
• Career Guide to the Safety Profession (booklet)
• Career Paths in Safety (brochure) Occupational Health and Safety Technologist®
• provides practitioners with partial responsibility in SH&E
For a comprehensive list of accredited U.S. academic
with a high quality certification
programs, search the BCSP Academic Database. If you have
questions, please email us: [email protected].
Construction Health and Safety Technician®
Accreditation and Recognition • offers a certification for individuals who work in a
construction craft or are construction safety specialists
BCSP’s certifications are accredited by independent, third-
party organizations (listed below) that evaluate certification Safety Trained Supervisor®
requirements on a regular basis.
• provides a quality certification for work group leaders in
• American National Standards Institute (ANSI), various industries who are responsible for the safety and
health of their workers
ansi.org [ISO/IEC 17024, General Requirements for
Bodies Operating Certification Systems of Persons] • is a leading indicator of safety performance
• has led to reductions in injuries and workers’
• National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), compensation claims and has created productivity gains
credentialingexcellence.org in participating companies
• Council of Engineering and Scientific Specialty
Boards (CESB), cesb.org Safety Trained Supervisor Construction®
• holds the same requirements and benefits as the Safety
BCSP has been granted special consultative status with the Trained Supervisor certification but provides a quality
United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) certification for work group leaders working specifically
since 2014. in construction

Certified Environmental, Safety and Health

Trainer®
• certifies those who have experience and expertise in
developing, designing, and delivering SH&E training

6
CHAPTER 2 | CERTIFICATION SUMMARY

Chapter Abstract Accreditation (CHEA) (chea.org) and/or the U.S.

Department of Education (ed.gov).
This chapter provides general information
about the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) Continuing education courses, seminars, and
credential. You may download this chapter as certificate programs are not a substitute for,
well as other chapters of the Complete Guide and do not receive credit toward, the academic
to the CSP from the Board of Certified Safety requirement.
Professionals (BCSP) website at bcsp.org.
A degree achieved from a Qualified Academic
An overview of the CSP certification Program may qualify for the Graduate
is presented along with qualifications, Safety Practitioner (GSP) program. The GSP
requirements, time limits, degree evaluations designation meets the qualification of holding
and the Graduate Safety Practitioner® a BCSP approved credential (detailed further
(GSP®) path. in this chapter).

Visit bcsp.org for the most current version Unaccredited degrees are a growing concern
of this guide. and some states have laws making it illegal
to use unaccredited degrees. Applicants and
Overview of the CSP Certification certificants cannot use unaccredited degrees
The CSP is a certification awarded by BCSP and the use is a violation of the BCSP Code
to individuals who meet all of the Board- of Ethics.
established requirements. BCSP requires all degrees from colleges
and universities outside the United States be
The CSP Process evaluated for U.S. equivalency. Information
One of the most common questions by potential regarding the process for having an
candidates is “What do I have to do to become a international degree evaluated for BCSP
CSP?” The process has several stages, each one certification is available in Chapter 3,
building on the other. “Application Instructions”.
1. Are You Eligible? Experience Requirement:
Academic Requirement: CSP candidates must have four years of
All individuals applying for the CSP must have professional safety experience to sit for the CSP
a bachelor’s degree or higher in any field exam. Professional safety experience must meet
from an accredited institution or an associate the following criteria to qualify:
in safety, health, or the environment. The ** Professional safety must be the primary
associate degree must include at least four function of the position. Collateral duties
courses with at least 12 semester hours/18 in safety are not counted.
quarter hours of study in the safety, health, or
environmental domains covered in the ASP and ** The position’s primary responsibility must
CSP examination blueprints. be the prevention of harm to people,
property, or the environment, rather than
There is no waiver of the academic requirement responsibility for responding to harmful
and proof of a minimum qualifying degree must events.
be provided. For U.S. degrees, BCSP requires ** Professional safety functions must be at
the school hold institutional accreditation least 50% of the position duties. BCSP
recognized by the Council for Higher Education

7
 defines full-time as at least 35 hours Work Safety (SAWS), People’s Republic of
per week. Part-time safety experience is China (PRC)**
allowed if the applicant has the equivalent ** Master in Occupational Safety and Health,
of at least 900 hours of professional safety International Training Centre of the
work during any year (75 hours per month International Labour Organization (ITC-
or 18 hours per week) for which experience ILO)**
credit is sought.
* Credential offered by BCSP
** The position must be at a professional level. ** Must meet eligibility requirements when
This is determined by evaluating the degree pursuing CSP
of professional charge by which there is a
reliance of employees, employers or clients Associate Safety Professional
on the person’s ability to identify, evaluate
and control hazards through engineering The Associate Safety Professional® (ASP®) is
and/or administrative approaches. a permanent certification awarded by BCSP
** The position must have breadth of and is one of several approved credentials
professional safety duties. This is that can qualify an individual to sit for the CSP
determined by evaluating the variety of examination. A list of this and other qualifying
hazards about which the candidate must credentials is included in the next section of
advise and the range of skills involved in this chapter. To learn more about the ASP
recognizing, evaluating, and controlling certification, please see The Complete Guide
hazards. to the ASP.

BCSP-Approved Credential Requirement Graduate Safety Practitioner

(applicant must hold one of the following
credentials at the time they apply for the CSP): The Graduate Safety Practitioner® (GSP®) is an
additional path to the CSP available to safety
** Member of Institute of Safety Professionals degree graduates from degree programs which
of Nigeria (MISPN) meet BCSP Qualified Academic Program (QAP)
** Associate Safety Professional (ASP) * standards. Those awarded the GSP designation
meet the requirement of holding a BCSP
** Graduate Safety Practitioner (GSP) * approved credential. To learn more about the
** Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) GSP and what degree programs qualify, please
** Chartered Member of the Institution see Chapter 8, “The GSP Designation”.
of Occupational Safety and Health
(CMIOSH)** 2. Submit Your Application
** Canadian Registered Safety Professional BCSP reviews all application materials to
(CRSP)** determine eligibility for the CSP examination.
Candidates must meet all requirements in
** Professional Member of Singapore order to be made eligible to sit for the CSP
Institution of Safety Officers (SISO)** examination. More information about the
** NEBOSH National or International Diploma application process can be found in Chapter 3,
in Occupational Health and Safety** “Application Instructions”.
** Diploma/Certificate in Industrial Safety,
as issued by the State Government 3. Purchase Your Exam
Departments/Boards of Technical Anytime during the one-year eligibility period,
Education, Government of India** candidates may pay for their examination
** Certified Safety Engineer (CSE), as through “My Profile” at bcsp.org or by calling
administered by the State Administration of Certification Services at +1 317-593-4800. The

8
examination authorization period begins the at the test center. Candidates will be given their
day a candidate purchases an exam (within their examination results at the center immediately
one-year eligibility period) and ends once he/she after submitting their exam. Candidates that fail
has sat for the examination or on the day their may purchase a new examination authorization
eligibility ends, whichever comes first. as long as they remain eligible.

Active or retired military may qualify for a Note: If you need special examination facilities or
reimbursement of the examination fee through accommodation arrangements for documented
the VA. The VA Brochure is located on the BCSP disabilities (consistent with the Americans with
website for more information. Disabilities Act and the American Disabilities
Amendment Act), you must request the
4. Schedule Your Exam accommodation with BCSP at the time you
Once BCSP has processed your examination purchase your exam. Accommodation requests
fee, you will then be able to schedule your should be emailed to accommodations@bcsp.
examination with Pearson VUE. Pearson VUE is org. Failure to request at the time of exam
the official computer-based testing provider for purchase may impact your ability to have the
all BCSP examinations. More information about accommodation provided at the testing center.
scheduling your examination can be found in
Chapter 5, “Examination Overview”. For a list of current fees, visit bcsp.org/
Certifications/Safety-Certifications-at-a-Glance.
5. Sit For Your Exam
Candidates eligible for the CSP examination 6. Maintain Certification
must pass the examination within their one-year
of eligibility. Annual Renewal Fees:

BCSP allows candidates to extend their eligibility After completing all of the requirements, BCSP
time limit once during their term and the awards candidates who pass the CSP exam
extension is valid for one year. Extensions are the CSP credential. Certificants will need to
available for purchase within the last 60 days of a pay annual renewal fees in order to maintain
candidate’s eligibility period. Exam authorizations certification. A prorated renewal fee will be
can be forfeited by contacting BCSP directly prior applied for the remainder of the year in which
to the candidate’s examination authorization the candidate passes the exam.
end date. Extensions can be purchased through
“My Profile” at bcsp.org, as long as the candidate Recertification:
is eligible. CSPs must remain up-to-date with changes in
Those who do not meet this time limit nor professional practice by earning 25 recertification
purchase the eligibility extension must reapply points every five years.
as a new candidate and meet the current Additional information regarding recertification
application requirements. A detailed outline of can be found in the Recertification Guide,
eligibility is provided once an application has located at bcsp.org/Certifications/
been approved. Recertification.
BCSP’s examination provider, Pearson VUE
(pearsonvue.com/BCSP), has test centers
located around the world and operates every
business day. All Pearson VUE testing sites are
subject to change based on criteria provided by
Pearson VUE. Please be sure to check regularly
for available locations when scheduling an
exam. Examinations are delivered via computer

9
CHAPTER 3 | APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Chapter Abstract After you submit your application, BCSP

Certification Services will contact you with any
This chapter provides detailed instructions and
questions or once your application review has
information about how to apply to become a
been completed.
CSP. You may download this chapter as well
as other chapters of the Complete Guide to
The application fee is nonrefundable and
the CSP from the Board of Certified Safety
nontransferable. For a list of current fees, visit
Professionals (BCSP) website at bcsp.org.
bcsp.org/Certifications/Safety-Certifications-
at-a-Glance. You will be prompted to include
Visit bcsp.org for the most current version of
payment along with your application. Your
this guide.
application will not be complete until payment
Application Instructions for the application fee and any additional
requested materials have been received. If all
Individuals who wish to pursue the CSP application requirements have not been met
must create a profile through “My Profile” at within one year of the application submission
bcsp.org. Once you have created your profile, date, the application will expire.
you may select the certification application
you are interested in and follow the online Submitting Transcripts
instructions. Candidates for certification apply Information on submitting transcripts will be
only once, provided they follow all policies provided as you fill out your application online.
and stay within their eligibility time limit.
International transcripts must be evaluated by
A complete application requires candidates BCSP’s approved third party degree evaluators
to provide: so that U.S. equivalency may be determined.
1. Contact Information The evaluation must be completed by a
member of the National Association of Degree
2. A BCSP Approved Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). A list of NACES
3. Experience Information members can be found at naces.org.
4. Education Information
Validation
5. Application Agreement and Validation
(acknowledging truthful information has BCSP requires applicants to disclose criminal
been provided, informing BCSP of any convictions, disciplinary actions, and denial or
criminal convictions or unethical behavior, revoked certifications, licenses and professional
agreeing to adhere to BCSP Code of Ethics, registrations taken against the applicant by the
and not disclose any information.) issuing certification board or agency. BCSP uses
its policy relating to criminal convictions to
6. Payment of Application determine whether the application can proceed
If you are unable to submit online and or whether it will be terminated. In some cases,
require a paper application, there will be a BCSP attorney may contact the applicant to
a processing fee. Please call our office for clarify information about the conviction. A copy
more details. of the BCSP criminal conviction policy appears
Do not send resumes, professional papers, at bcsp.org/CSP under the Resources tab
continuing education course certificates, “Policies and Forms.”
or any other items that are not specifically Applicants are required to provide disclosure of:
requested.
• All felony convictions

10
 • All misdemeanor convictions within the
past five (5) years (Minor traffic violations
and petty offenses DO NOT have to be
reported)
• Any record of unethical behavior
• Information related to having a
professional license or certification denied,
suspended or revoked for reasons other
than not meeting qualifications, failure of
examination, or failure to pay renewal fees

Auditing
BCSP randomly selects 5% of applications for
audit. If your application is selected, you will
be required to provide experience documents
and an official university transcript in a sealed
envelope. Acceptable forms of validation
documentation for experience are:

1. A letter on company letterhead from

employer validating employment
dates, job title and percentage of job
duties which are/were Safety/Health/
Environmental;
2. BCSP Experience Validation Form
completed by employer (ONLY IF YOUR
APPLICATION IS SELECTED FOR AUDIT).

www.bcsp.org

My Profile

11
CHAPTER 4 | PREPARING FOR THE EXAM

Chapter Abstract the areas in which you should engage in

additional study.
This chapter provides information about BCSP
examinations and suggestions for preparation.
Developing a Test-Taking Strategy
You may download this chapter as well as other
chapters of the Complete Guide to the CSP from Knowing how to take the examination will help
the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) improve your score. The examination uses
website at bcsp.org. multiple-choice items with only one correct
answer and three incorrect answers. Remember,
Visit bcsp.org for the most current version the goal is to get as many items correct as
of this guide. possible. There is no penalty for selecting an
incorrect answer. However, only correct answers
Preparing for the Examination count toward reaching the passing score.
You may use various approaches to prepare for
• Read the items carefully
the examination:
• Consider the context
• Complete Self-Assessment
• Use examination time wisely
• Perform individual study
• Go back to troublesome items
• Participate in informal study groups
• Complete all items
• Attend formal review courses
Using Your Authorized Calculator(s)
Some keys to success include: The candidate is allowed to bring one or two
calculators into the secure testing room as long
• Knowing your strengths and weaknesses
as they both are among the brands and models
• Having an examination preparation plan listed:
• Developing a test-taking strategy • Casio models FX-115, -250, -260 or -300
• Understanding how to use your calculator
• Hewlett Packard models HP 9, 10, 12 or 30
Having an Examination Study Plan • Texas Instruments models TI-30, -34, -35
or -36
The examination blueprint shows how the
items on an examination are distributed across Different versions of the above models will be
domains. The percentage of items per domain is permitted. For example, the HP-30S and TI-30X
noted on the examination blueprint. calculators will be permitted, as they are versions
of these models.
Converting your subject strengths and
weaknesses into a study plan is likely to increase If the candidate does not have one of the
your overall examination score. Scoring well in approved calculators, he or she should use the
one subject area can compensate for a weaker online calculator that is part of the exam. Test
score in another subject area. However, there centers do not provide calculators or allow
may not be enough items in your strong areas to candidates to bring in non-approved models.
achieve a passing score.
Make sure you know how to use your
Note that knowledge and understanding are calculator(s) so you do not waste valuable time
essential in passing the examination. Relying only trying to understand how to use it once the
on simulated examination items is not the best examination clock starts. It is a good idea to
way to increase knowledge and understanding. practice working solutions and to be able to
Use simulated items to provide insight into recall the correct calculator procedures.

12
Remember, solutions to computational items assist candidates when preparing for BCSP
usually are rounded. You should select the examinations. Because candidates for BCSP
answer closest to the computed value. examinations often ask where to locate review
courses and materials, BCSP maintains an online
Obtaining Information on the Body of list strictly as a courtesy at bcsp.org/Resources/
Knowledge Review-and-Study-Sources.
Draw on your experience and on professional Beyond the written materials BCSP publishes,
and study references in your own library, a BCSP has no involvement in the development,
company library, or a public library. BCSP content, or distribution of any courses or
maintains a list of examination references for materials associated with preparing for BCSP
each certification at bcsp.org/Resources/ examinations or evaluating readiness. BCSP
Review-and-Study-Sources. Examination neither endorses the providers shown on the
items are not necessarily taken directly from online list nor evaluates the providers or the
these sources. However, BCSP believes providers’ materials for consistency with BCSP
these references represent the breadth and examination blueprints or with any aspect of any
depth of coverage of safety, health, and BCSP examination.
environmental practice.
Candidates must contact the sources directly
BCSP-Published Self-Assessment about materials, course schedules, fees,
or matters related to satisfaction with their
It is essential for you to compare your knowledge
products or services.
against what is contained in the examination
blueprint. One way to do this is by using a self-
Examination Integrity
evaluation method. A self-evaluation helps
determine how well you know various subjects. A key to a successful and respected credentialing
program is examination security. Without it,
BCSP publishes a Self-Assessment for all a peer-operated credentialing program has
certifications. The Self-Assessment can help little value. BCSP relies on the ethical behavior
diagnose how well you know the body of of candidates and certificants to maintain the
knowledge, as well as to help refresh your test- security of BCSP examinations.
taking skills.
When those who hold credentials or those who
The Self-Assessment is based on the blueprint are pursuing credentials reveal information
described in this guide and is half the length of a about the content of BCSP examinations, they
full examination. The Self-Assessment includes violate the agreement all candidates accept
a scoring sheet and correct answers. It also when they apply for certification and when they
includes solutions to computational items, along take an examination. Applicants, examination
with references for each item. candidates, or certificants who reveal confidential
information about the content of BCSP
Note: The Self-Assessment is designed to assist
examinations through any means also violate the
the candidate in evaluating their strengths and
BCSP Disciplinary Action Policy and the BCSP
weaknesses, strategize test taking pace, and plan
Code of Ethics located at bcsp.org/About.
future studying accordingly. The Self-Assessment
is not considered training or preparation in BCSP pursues legal actions against organizations,
any manner. individuals not seeking certification, and
individuals who fraudulently claim or
To order a Self-Assessment, please log on to
misrepresent their intent to seek certification,
“My Profile” at bcsp.org to make the purchase.
who reveal information about the content
of BCSP examinations. Penalties include
Other Review and Study Sources
permanently barring individuals from pursuing
A number of professional membership the credential and revoking the certifications and
organizations, trade organizations, colleges, interim designations of those who have status
and universities, and private companies offer with BCSP, in addition to other legal remedies.
study courses, software, and materials to

13
CHAPTER 5 | EXAM OVERVIEW

Chapter Abstract Refer to the Pearson VUE Computer-Based

Testing Brochure located at bcsp.org for more
This chapter provides detailed information
details and requirements.
about the CSP examination leading to the CSP
credential. You may download this chapter as
Scheduling Your Exam
well as other chapters of the Complete Guide
to the CSP from the Board of Certified Safety Once you have purchased your examination,
Professionals (BCSP) website at bcsp.org. BCSP will send you information on scheduling
your examination with a Pearson VUE testing
An overview of the CSP examination is presented center. It is important that when you schedule,
along with its respective examination blueprint. you do so on Pearson VUE’s website or by calling
Sample item types typical of the examination can their national number. Local testing centers do
be found in Chapter 6 with answers. not schedule examinations. All Pearson VUE
testing sites are subject to change based on
Visit bcsp.org for the most current version criteria provided by Pearson VUE. Please be sure
of this guide. to check regularly for available locations when
scheduling an exam.
Computer-Based Testing
The CSP examination uses computer-based For a complete list of testing center rules and
testing, with one item appearing on the screen procedures, visit PearsonVUE.com/BCSP.
at a time. You will simply use a mouse to point
to the desired answer and click on it to select it.
General Description of the CSP
Answers can be changed the same way. Examination
You can mark items to return to later or simply All candidates for the CSP must pass the CSP
skip them and move to the next item. At the end examination to earn the credential.
of the examination, there is a table of items and The CSP examination contains 200 multiple-
answers selected. The table also shows skipped choice items with four possible answers and
and marked items. You can return to any item by only one correct answer. Data necessary to
simply clicking on the item number. answer items are included in the item. Each item
Prior to beginning the actual examination, is independent and does not rely on the correct
there is a tutorial. Your examination clocks answer to any other item. Formulas will be
begins when you officially commence with embedded into each item that requires one.
the examination itself. After completing the
examination, you will select to end the exam to CSP Examination Blueprint
formally submit your examination for scoring.
BCSP examination blueprints are based on
You will receive results before you leave the
surveys of what safety professionals do in
testing center facility.
practice. The CSP examination is required
You will have FIVE AND A HALF (5.5) hours to for candidates to demonstrate knowledge of
complete the CSP examination. Examinations are professional safety practice at the CSP level.
closed book, and accessing external reference
The top levels, called domains, represent
materials during your examination is not
the major functions performed by safety
permitted. For use during the examination, the
professionals at the CSP level. Within each
testing center will provide you with materials for
domain are lists of knowledge areas and skills
working out calculations by hand.
necessary for carrying out the task in that

14
domain. The knowledge areas for the CSP
examination build upon the knowledge
candidates have already demonstrated
by virtue of having achieved the ASP
certification, GSP designation, or another
BCSP-approved credential. Each domain
heading is accompanied by a percentage
label which represents the proportion of
the actual CSP examination devoted to
that domain. The following pages describe
the subject matter covered by the CSP
examination.

Examination Content Development

and Revision
BCSP updates examinations regularly.
Items come from safety professionals in
practice. Before items are accepted into
item banks, they go through rigorous
technical, psychometric, and grammatical
editing. Also, 10–15% of the items on BCSP
examinations are experimental, and do
not contribute to a candidate’s pass/fail
decision. BCSP analyzes the performance of
these experimental items before including
them as scored items.

How BCSP Establishes the Minimum

Passing Score
BCSP uses a criterion-referenced
procedure (the Modified Angoff Method)
to establish minimum passing scores for
examinations. This procedure ensures
that the passing score is independent of
scores for other candidates sitting for the
examination and involves having a panel
of experts rate each examination item
with respect to the minimally qualified
candidate. As examinations are modified
on a regular basis, the minimum passing
score is adjusted for the difficulty of items
on the examination. Item performance
is also evaluated regularly to ensure that
BCSP examinations maintain the highest
testing standards.

15
CSP9
EXAM BLUEPRINT
The following three pages
contains the entire CSP9 Exam Blueprint.

16
 EXAMINATION BLUEPRINT
CSP9

Domain 1
Advanced Science and Math • 7.4%

Knowledge of:
1. Core concepts in anatomy and physiology
2. Core concepts in chemistry (organic and general chemistry)
3. Core concepts in physics
4. Mathematics (e.g., geometry, algebra, trigonometry)
5. Statistics for interpreting data (e.g., mean, median, mode, confidence intervals, probabilities, pareto analysis)
6. Core research methodology concepts

Skill to:
1. Calculate required containment volumes and hazardous materials storage requirements
2. Calculate statistics from data sources

Domain 2
Management Systems • 19.5%

Knowledge of:
1. Benchmarks and performance standards
2. How to measure, analyze, and improve organizational culture
3. Incident investigation techniques
4. Management of change techniques
5. System safety techniques (e.g., root cause, job safety analysis, fault tree analysis)
6. The elements of business continuity and contingency plans
7. Types of leading and lagging safety, health, environmental, and security performance indicators
8. Safety, health, and environmental management and audit systems (e.g., ANSI/AIHA Z10, ISO 14000 series,
OHSAS 18000 series, ISO 19011)
9. Applicable requirements for health plans, programs, and policies
10. Applicable requirements for safety plans, programs, and policies
11. Documentation retention or management principles (e.g., incident investigation, training records, exposure records,
maintenance records, environmental management system, audit results)
12. Budgeting, finance, and economic analysis techniques and principles (e.g., timelines, budget development,
milestones, resourcing, financing risk management options)
13. Management leadership techniques (e.g., management theories, leadership theories, motivation, discipline,
communication styles)
14. Project management concepts and techniques (e.g., RACI charts, project timelines, budgets)

Skill to:
1. Analyze and/or interpret sampling data (e.g., exposure, release concentrations)
2. Apply management principles of authority, responsibility, and accountability
3. Compare management systems with benchmarks
4. Conduct root cause analyses
5. Develop and implement environmental, safety, and health management systems
6. Evaluate and analyze survey data
7. Perform gap analyses
8. Demonstrate business need via financial calculations (e.g., ROI, engineering economy, financial engineering)

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 Domain 3
Risk Management • 10.3%

Knowledge of:
1. Analysis required to support risk management options
2. Behavior modification techniques
3. Hazard analysis methods
4. The costs and benefits of risk analysis
5. The risk assessment process

Skill to:
1. Apply risk-based decision-making tools for prioritizing risk management options
2. Calculate metrics for organizational risk
3. Conduct job safety analyses and task analyses
4. Explain risk management options and concepts to decision makers, stakeholders, and the public

Domain 4
Advanced Safety Concepts • 22.9%

Knowledge of:
1. Administrative controls (e.g., job rotation, chemical substitution)
2. Chemical process safety management (e.g., pressure relief systems, chemical compatibility, management of change,
materials of construction, process flow diagrams)
3. Common workplace hazards (e.g., electrical, falls, confined spaces, lockout/tagout, working around water, caught in,
struck by, excavation, welding, hot work, cold and heat stress, combustibles, laser, and others)
4. Engineering controls (e.g., ventilation, guarding, isolation)
5. Facility life safety features (e.g., public space safety, floor loading, occupancy loads)
6. Fleet safety principles (e.g., driver and equipment safety, maintenance, surveillance equipment)
7. Hazardous materials management (e.g., labels, storage, and handling)
8. Insurance/risk transfer principles
9. Multi-employer worksite issues (e.g., contractors, temporary or seasonal employees)
10. Personal protective equipment
11. Principles of safety through design or inherently safer designs (e.g., designing out hazards during design phase)
12. Sources of information on hazards and risk management options (e.g., subject matter experts, relevant best
practices, published literature, SDS)
13. The safety design criteria for consumer and industrial products (e.g., UL, NFPA, NIOSH)
14. Tools and equipment safety (e.g., hand tools, ladders, grinders, cranes and other mobile equipment, robotics)
15. Unique workplace hazards (e.g., nanoparticles, combustible dust)

Skill to:
1. Calibrate, use, and maintain data logging, monitoring, and measurement equipment
2. Identify relevant labels, signs, and warnings
3. Interpret plans, specifications, technical drawings, and process flow diagrams

Domain 5
Emergency Preparedness, Fire Prevention, and Security • 9.1%
Knowledge of:
1. Emergency/crisis/disaster response planning (e.g., for nuclear incidents, natural disasters, terrorist attacks,
chemical spills, fires)
2. Fire prevention and protection systems
3. Fire suppression systems
4. Incident (e.g., emergency, crisis, disaster) management
5. The transportation and security of hazardous materials
6. Workplace violence and harassment recognition and prevention techniques

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 Domain 6
Occupational Health and Ergonomics • 8.0%

Knowledge of:
1. Basic toxicology principles (e.g., symptoms of an exposure, LD50, mutagens, teratogens)
2. Ergonomics and human factors principles (e.g., visual acuity, body mechanics, patient lifting, vibration, anthropometrics)
3. How to recognize occupational exposures (e.g., hazardous chemicals, radiation, noise, biological agents, heat/cold,
infectious diseases, nanoparticles, indoor air quality)
4. How to evaluate occupational exposures (e.g., hazardous chemicals, radiation, noise, biological agents, heat/cold,
infectious diseases, ventilation, nanoparticles, indoor air quality), including techniques for measurement, sampling, and analysis
5. How to control occupational exposures (e.g., hazardous chemicals, radiation, noise, biological agents, heat/cold,
ventilation, nanoparticles, infectious diseases, indoor air quality)
6. The fundamentals of epidemiology
7. Occupational exposure limits (e.g., hazardous chemicals, radiation, noise, biological agents, heat)

Domain 7
Environmental Management Systems • 6.3%

Knowledge of:
1. Environmental protection and pollution prevention methods (e.g., air pollution, water pollution, soil pollution, containment)
2. Hazardous waste management practices (e.g., segregation and separation, containment, disposal)
3. How released hazardous materials migrate through the air, surface water, soil, and water table
4. Sustainability principles

Domain 8
Training/Education • 9.1%

Knowledge of:
1. Education and training methods and techniques
2. Training requirements
3. Methods for determining the effectiveness of training programs (e.g., determine if trainees are applying training on the job)
4. Effective presentation techniques

Skill to:
1. Perform training needs assessments
2. Develop training programs (e.g., presentation skills, tools)
3. Conduct training
4. Assess training competency
5. Develop training assessment instruments (e.g., written tests, skill assessments) to assess training competency

Domain 9
Law and Ethics • 7.4%
Knowledge of:
1. Legal issues (e.g., tort, negligence, civil, criminal, contracts, disability terminology)
2. Protecting confidential information (e.g., privacy, trade secrets)
3. Standards development processes
4. The ethics related to conducting audits
5. The relationship between labor and management
6. BCSP Code of Ethics
Skill to:
1. Interpret laws, regulations, and consensus codes and standards
2. Apply concepts of BCSP Code of Ethics

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CHAPTER 6 | EXAM SAMPLE QUESTIONS

Chapter Abstract
This chapter provides sample items typical of examination and their answers for the CSP examination.
You may download this chapter as well as other chapters of the Complete Guide to the CSP from the
Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) website at bcsp.org.

Visit bcsp.org for the most current version of this guide.

Examination Item Samples

The following items illustrate only the style and format typical of items on the CSP examination. Not
all CSP examination domain areas are represented by these sample items. Please note it is essential
for you to read and understand the CSP examination blueprint found in Chapter 5 so you have a
complete awareness of the depth and breadth of all of the subject matter appearing on the actual
CSP examination.

Note: None of the following items are on the examination nor do they reflect specific content.

1. The irradiance of a laser is defined as the power 3. The theoretical ideal for safety is achieved when
per unit area of a light beam striking a surface. all risks derived from hazards are:
What is the irradiance of a CO2 laser with a power
of 250W and a diameter of 1.5 cm? A. At an acceptable level.
B. Recognized.
Area of a circle is (pi X r*2)
C. Anticipated.
A. 141.5 W/cm2 D. Eliminated.
B. 166.7 W/cm2
C. 35.4 W/cm2
D. 16.7 W/cm2
4. A new chemical process line will be installed in
a facility. A cross functioning team comprised
of operators, maintenance personnel, design
engineers, and safety specialists has been created.
2. In predicting the ability of an organization to The team decides to use a process hazard
successfully make a change, one of the measures evaluation technique during the design phase.
of the organizational function is procedural The team wants to use a systematic approach
justice. What is procedural justice? by reviewing all drawings and specifications of
the new process line, divide these into small
A. The extent to which the individual worker segments and nodes, identify process deviations,
perceives fairness in the supervisor’s decision the likelihood and consequences of deviations,
making process and control measures. What process evaluation
method would be selected?
B. The process of rationalization for a new
procedure A. What-if analysis
C. A procedure for determining appropriate B. Failure modes and effects analysis
disciplinary action for safety (and other) C. Hazard and operability study
infractions D. Checklists
D. An arbitration method

20
5. Why is it necessary for the fire department to 8. When conducting a safety and health program
maintain control of a fire scene after the fire is audit, what is the BEST way to determine
extinguished? training, awareness, and competence of
employees?
A. The fire department is responsible for the
prevention of looting of the scene. A. Quantitative analysis of scores of all SH&E
B. The fire department may be held liable for examinations completed by employees.
injuries to the curious. B. Complete verification analysis to determine
C. The fire department is responsible to allow if employees had completed all regulatory
the insurance people to do their claim training.
investigation. C. Observation of employees and practices being
D. Fire investigation personnel must have used in the operation.
adequate time to properly investigate the fire. D. Complete a sampling of employee
performance reviews from various areas to
determine how supervisors evaluated their
employees’ SH&E competence.
6. Identify a design action for preventing and
controlling “sick building syndrome.”

A. Keep hot water supply temperatures higher

9. Which legal theories under which polluters
than 120°F. have been held liable for damage is defined as
B. Limit relative humidity to less than 70%. “wrongful interference with another person’s
C. Use only steam humidifiers, not recirculating property rights?”
ones.
A. Trespass
D. Keep coils, pans, drainage systems and duct
B. Negligence
work clean.
C. Nuisance
D. Strict liability

7. Dispersion models describe the airborne

transport of materials away from the accident
or release site. Which affects atmospheric
dispersion of released toxic materials?

A. Specific gravity of the toxic materials

B. Percent of volumetric concentration of
materials
C. Absolute pressure of the external surroundings
D. Momentum and buoyancy of the initial
materials released

Answers and references on following page >>>

21
 Answer Key

1. A 4. C 7. D
2. A 5. D 8. C
3. A 6. C 9. A

References to Questions
1. Safety with Lasers and Other Optical 6. Safety and Health for Engineers, Brauer,
Sources, A Comprehensive Handbook, Roger L. (2006), 2nd Edition, John Wiley
Wolbarsht, Myron; Sliney, D. H. (1985), 4th and Sons, Page 491.
Printing, Plenum Press, Page 55.
7. The Safety Professionals Handbook:
2. Leading with Safety, Krause, Thomas R. Technical Applications, Haight, Joel M.,
(2005), Wiley-Interscience, Page. 63. Editor (2008), American Society of Safety
Engineers, Page 435.

3. On the Practice of Safety, Manuel, Fred A.

(2003), 3rd Edition, John Wiley and Sons, 8. ISO 14001: Environmental Systems
Page 75. Handbook, Whitelaw, Ken (1997).
Butterworth Heinemann, Page 78 and
OHSAS 18001: Designing and Implementing
4. Engineering Reference Manual, Bolton, an Effective Health and Safety Management
Fredric N.; Johnson, David L. (1999), 2nd System, Kausek, Joe (2007), Government
Edition, AIHA Press, Pages 172-173. Institutes, Pages 134-135.

5. Kirk’s Fire Investigation, DeHaan, John 9. Accident Prevention Manual for Business
(2007), 6th Edition, Pearson Prentice Hall, and Industry: Environmental Management,
Pages 198-199. Krieger, Gary (2000), 2nd Edition, National
Safety Council. Page 155.

22
CHAPTER 7 | AFTER ACHIEVING CERTIFICATION

Chapter Abstract information about important changes which

may affect BCSP certifications and designations,
This chapter provides detailed information
information about certificate holders, and
needed after earning your credential. You may
professional safety practice information. Current
download this chapter as well as other chapters
issues and back issues are located on the
of the Complete Guide to the CSP from the
BCSP website.
Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP)
website at bcsp.org. BCSP Annual Report. The BCSP Annual Report
is another important publication you will receive
An overview of the rules and procedures essential
electronically. It contains summarized data
in retaining the CSP credential is presented as
about CSPs and the annual audited financial
well as proper use of the title. It also defines
report and can be found on the BCSP website at
discipline procedures, contains guidelines for
bcsp.org/About.
helping promote the value of the CSP credential,
and provides information on ordering seals, BCSP Directories. BCSP publishes directories of
stamps, jewelry, certificate frames, and other individuals who currently hold BCSP certifications
logo products. and designations. An abbreviated format,
containing names, cities, and states, appears on
Visit bcsp.org for the most current version the BCSP website and allows viewers to confirm
of this guide. if a person currently holds a BCSP certification
or designation.
Features and Benefits of Obtaining BCSP
Credentials eSafetySource Registration. BCSP offers
the opportunity for BCSP certification and
Wallet Card. Each year when you pay the
designation holders to register on the electronic
required annual renewal fee, a wallet card is
safety source registry, indicating their areas
made available which shows you are certified
of specialization.
as well as your recertification date for your
certification. The card identifies you as a title Mail Lists. Organizations and companies
holder for the calendar year (unless declared providing valuable services to safety professionals
invalid). You will have access to print your wallet may purchase a list of BCSP certificant names
card instantly from your profile. and addresses. Use of the list is restricted and all
list sales are approved by BCSP. Restrictions limit
Wall Certificate. When you achieve the CSP
the sale to uses which are of value in professional
credential, BCSP issues a wall certificate suitable
safety practice (i.e. notices of upcoming
for framing. Should you lose or damage your wall
conferences or professional publications).
certificate, BCSP will replace it for a nominal fee.
Sales are not approved for promotion of
Visit “My Profile” on the BCSP website to order.
general merchandise or services or for resale
Access to BCSP’s Career Center. Many employers or distribution to third-party organizations.
post open job positions seeking qualified safety CSPs may specify at any time that their names
professionals. With a BCSP credential, you may not be included on mail lists by managing
post your resume online and employers have “Communication Preferences” in “My Profile” at
access to view your resume and contact you if bcsp.org.
you wish.
Membership Level. Individuals may use the
BCSP eNewsletter Subscription. As a BCSP CSP credential to qualify for the highest level
certificant, you will receive the quarterly BCSP of membership in professional safety societies.
eNewsletter. The BCSP eNewsletter contains After achieving the CSP credential, check with

23
the safety and health organizations in which ABC Safety Company provides the latest
you hold memberships to see if you qualify for a safety services. Employees holding the
status change. For example, the CSP credential Certified Safety Professional® (CSP®)
qualifies members of the American Society certification include Robert A. Smith, CSP
of Safety Engineers (ASSE) for “Professional and Mary A. Jones, CSP.
Member” status. Example of improper company use:
Title Protection and Laws Involving the BCSP ABC Safety Company, providing safety
Credentials. Some states have enacted title services by Certified Safety Professionals.
protection laws which restrict anyone from
claiming to hold a BCSP certification without Maintaining Your Certification
having duly obtained them from BCSP. In order to retain your certification, you must:
Additionally, several states have enacted laws or
regulations which specify that CSPs may provide • Inform BCSP when your mail or email
loss control services for insurance companies. address changes
Check your state government website for more • Pay your annual fee
details.
• Complete recertification requirements
Use of the CSP Title Changing Your Name. If you change your name
It is important to know how to use your CSP title through marriage or other court proceedings,
correctly. The “Certified Safety Professional” title you may request a name change by contacting
and the letters “CSP” are registered certification [email protected]. Additionally, you must provide a
marks issued to BCSP by the U.S. Patent and copy of the court record or marriage certificate
Trademark Office. They can only be used when in order for BCSP to register the change.
authorized for a period specifically designated
Paying Your Annual Renewal Fee. The authority
by BCSP. There are guidelines for displaying your
to use the CSP title is valid for one year. It must
CSP credential properly.
be renewed annually. You will receive a prorated
Examples of correct use: fee for the remainder of the year in which you
pass the examination. Each following year, BCSP
• Robert A. Smith, CSP will send you a notice when your annual renewal
• Robert A. Smith, Certified Safety fee is due. BCSP gives you several options for
Professional paying the fee online via a credit card or by
phone. After receiving your payment, BCSP
The CSP credential may be used only for the will have a receipt and wallet card available to
period for which use is authorized. Use expires print. For a list of current fees, visit bcsp.org/
if you have not paid the annual renewal fee or Certifications/Safety-Certifications-at-a-Glance.
have not met recertification requirements for the
CSP. Use of these titles beyond the authorized Meeting Recertification Requirements. The
period (without complying with renewal or recertification program helps CSPs keep up with
recertification requirements) constitutes changes affecting professional safety practice.
unauthorized use of the credential. The program complies with requirements of
BCSP’s national accrediting organizations.
You may use these credential on your business
cards, resume, and correspondence or with Every five years (one cycle) you must achieve
your signature. You may use your CSP credential 25 points. There are ten categories of activities,
virtually anywhere you use your name. each providing points toward meeting that goal.
Keep in mind, there is no limit to the number
The CSP credential is awarded to individuals, of points in some categories, while other
not companies, and should only be used with categories have annual and/or total point limits.
individuals’ names.
At the end of the five-year period, you must
Example of proper company use: submit the points you earned during that cycle.
Only points earned during a recertification cycle

24
count toward that cycle. BCSP randomly selects Retired CSPs
5% of those who submit their points for an audit.
While documentation to prove points is not Certificants who are retiring can hold their
required with the initial submission, the audit certifications in retired status should they meet
procedure requires you have proof of the points the following requirements:
claimed. It is important that you keep records to
• They have held certification a minimum
verify your recertification activities.
of ten (10) years.
Additional details of the recertification program • They have completed two (2)
appear in the Recertification Guide. You may recertification cycles.
download the Recertification Guide on the BCSP
To maintain a certification in retired status:
website to help you through the process. You
will want to refer to the website regularly for the • Safety practice is not required.
most up-to-date information.
• No more than 200 hours of safety
practice annually is allowed.
Reinstatement
• A Retired Annual Renewal Fee is required
If you fail to pay your annual renewal fee on
each year
time or fail to achieve the required recertification
points every five years, BCSP will send you a A certificant holding a certification in retired
notice that your credential has been invalidated status must indicate their status as in the
and you no longer hold the CSP. following examples:

You may seek reinstatement online through • Robert A. Smith, CSP Retired
“My Profile” at bcsp.org. Reinstatement must be
• Robert A. Smith, CSP (Retired)
by 12/31 of the same year you are invalidated.
Reinstatement includes paying a reinstatement • Robert A. Smith, CSP Ret.
fee and complying with the current recertification
requirements. Otherwise, you will be required • Robert A. Smith, Certified Safety
to apply as a new candidate and meet all of Professional (Retired)
the requirements in place at the time of your
application. Protecting the CSP Credential and Logo
Because BCSP has registered its logos and titles,
Career Interruptions it has a solid position for challenging BCSP title
While holding the CSP credential, you may face and/or logo infringement. There are several legal
situations which affect your ability to maintain theories and considerations involved. Registration
your certification. You may experience an itself does not provide absolute protection from
interruption in your safety career, such as moving others using similar acronyms or titles. BCSP
to a job which is not in the safety profession, does not have exclusive use of the acronym.
taking time out to be a parent, student or soldier, BCSP continually challenges those uses which
having an extended health problem, or being can be confusing to the public or for which there
unemployed. BCSP has established some options are legal grounds to make such challenges.
to help deal with these types of situations.
Individuals Using the CSP Credential
Leave of Absence and Extensions. You may seek Without Authority
a leave of absence or an extension if a career
interruption will affect your ability to meet BCSP has established procedures for challenging
recertification requirements. Please refer to the individuals known to use the Certified Safety
Recertification Guide for detailed information. Professional credential without having
obtained it or after they lost it for failure to pay
Annual Renewal Fee Waiver While Unemployed. annual renewal fees or meet recertification
If you become unemployed and are unable to requirements.
pay your annual renewal fee, you may request
in writing a one-time waiver of the annual
renewal fee.
25
In order to establish someone is using the Disciplinary Action Policy contains rules on
credential without authority, BCSP must have disciplinary procedures and grounds for action.
the original document (or a copy) showing where The complete BCSP Disciplinary Action Policy is
the individual is using the title. Most often the on the BCSP website.
unauthorized use occurs online, on a business
card, resume, business letterhead, brochure Appeals
or similar publication, or with a signature. To You may appeal decisions related to earning
initiate action against the individual using the and maintaining BCSP credentials. Requests for
credential without authority, BCSP also needs appeal must be submitted to the Chief Executive
the individual’s current mailing address. Officer in writing and in accordance to the
BCSP relies on those finding potential current appeals policy located online at bcsp.
unauthorized uses to report them and provide org/About.
the documentation showing the use of these
titles. BCSP will not disclose the name of the
Promoting the CSP
person or organization reporting potential BCSP uses several methods to promote the CSP
unauthorized uses. credential and to encourage safety professionals
to pursue it. You may volunteer to assist in these
After receiving documentation of a potential activities. Please contact BCSP or visit the BCSP
unauthorized use case, BCSP takes steps to website to determine available materials.
challenge that individual and seeks to correct
any record-keeping error on the part of BCSP. Request a Returnable Banner Display. Use of
Legal counsel for BCSP may participate in the BCSP banner displays helps promote BCSP and
procedures. the CSP certification. They are ideal for meetings,
local and regional conferences or educational
Those who have used BCSP titles without programs of local professional groups and
authority may be barred from pursuing the companies. BCSP pays for shipping to and from
CSP certification for five years. Their names events. Some instances may earn recertification
are also published on the BCSP website. Other credit for promoting the CSP. To request
penalties may be applied. BCSP reserves the a display, fill out the Display and Literature
right to use the courts in protecting use of the Request Form located at bcsp.org/Resources/
CSP credential. Presentations-and-Outreach, or contact BCSP.

Criminal Convictions Promotional Materials. There is a variety of

BCSP’s criminal conviction policy appears on complimentary literature about all of the BCSP
the BCSP website. It applies to BCSP certification credentials, qualifications and procedures,
holders. The policy also covers convictions by and examinations. Most BCSP publications are
other certifications and licensing bodies for available on the BCSP website as downloadable
unauthorized use of designations. It requires PDFs. To request literature, please fill out the
CSPs to report new convictions which can Display and Literature Request Form located
result in BCSP disciplinary proceedings. at bcsp.org/Resources/Presentations-and-
Outreach, or contact BCSP.
Discipline Procedures To encourage individuals to pursue a career in
BCSP authorizes individuals to use the CSP safety, BCSP offers a PDF of the Career Guide
credential when they meet requirements for to the Safety Profession, co-produced with the
achieving and retaining the credential. BCSP ASSE Foundation, and a Career Paths in Safety
also has a responsibility to withdraw that brochure in PDF and print. These PDFs are
authorization if individuals fail to pay annual available on the BCSP website.
renewal fees, fail to meet recertification
requirements, or violate BCSP Disciplinary Action Presentation Materials. PowerPoint presentations
Policy or the BCSP Code of Ethics. The BCSP about the safety profession and the BCSP
credentials are located on the BCSP website

26
at bcsp.org/Resources/Presentations-and-
Outreach.

Mentor Program. Created specifically to

recognize certificants’ roles in assisting the
career development of others, the mentor
program helps bring current credential holders
and those looking to pursue certification
together.

The mentor program rewards those who

become mentors and ensures safety
professionals who perform quality work are
certified. By having your mentee fill out the
Professional Advancement Mentor Form and
submit it by fax or email at the time that they
apply online, BCSP recognizes mentors and
their work with their peers, colleagues, and
other safety professionals. More information
can be found at bcsp.org/Resources/
Mentoring.

Maintaining Your Mail and Email

Address
As a CSP, you are solely responsible to keep
BCSP informed of your current mail and
email address. If either address changes,
you must notify BCSP. You could lose the
CSP certification if annual renewal notices
and other important information do not
reach you.

27
CHAPTER 8 | THE GSP DESIGNATION

Chapter Abstract Application using ‘My Profile’ at bcsp.org. For

information on QAPs visit bcsp.org/GSP.
This chapter provides detailed information
about the GSP designation and how it can assist
Definitions
in achieving the CSP certification. You may
download this chapter as well as other chapters Graduate Safety Practitioner. The Graduate
of the Complete Guide to the CSP from the Safety Practitioner (GSP) designation is not a
Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) certification. It is awarded to qualified individuals
website at bcsp.org. to mark their completion of an academic
program meeting BCSP QAP standards. The
Visit bcsp.org for the most current version GSP designation recognizes students graduating
of this guide. from QAPs who develop suitable knowledge
and skills for entry into (or advancement in)
GSP General Information professional safety practice. The GSP designation
also denotes participation in a path leading to the
Understanding the Graduate Safety Practitioner CSP certification.
Program
Qualified Academic Program. A Qualified
The Graduate Safety Practitioner® (GSP®) is an
Academic Program (QAP) is an academic degree
additional path to the CSP available to safety
program in safety, health and environmental
degree graduates from degree programs which
practices meeting BCSP standards for
meet BCSP Qualified Academic Program (QAP)
participation in the GSP program. Currently,
standards. Those awarded the GSP designation
BCSP defines a QAP as a bachelor’s or master’s
meet the requirement of holding a BCSP
degree program in safety, health and/or
approved credential. The GSP designation
environmental practices whose curriculum has
is not a certification. It denotes graduation
been determined to be a substantial match to the
from a QAP and indicates progress toward the
ASP Examination Blueprint by BCSP.
CSP certification.

Purpose of the GSP Program QAP Coordinator. A Qualified Academic Program

The purpose of the GSP program is to recognize Coordinator is the contact person between
that an academic program in safety, health the academic institution and BCSP. It may be
and environmental practices meets BCSP QAP the department chair, professor, or a program
standards and that its graduates are prepared coordinator. This person works with BCSP to
for entry into (or advancement in) professional help maintain the program’s QAP status. In
safety practice. addition, they inform students about the GSP
program and promote the value of holding the
Benefits for Qualified Students CSP certification.
• Meets the CSP eligibility requirement of The Certified Safety Professional. The Certified
holding a BCSP approved credential. Safety Professional® or CSP® is a certification
• Recognition for the level of preparation for awarded by the Board of Certified Safety
professional safety practice. Professionals (BCSP). More information about the
CSP and BCSP can be found at bcsp.org.
• A certificate awarding the GSP designation.

How to Apply Qualifications

If you have graduated from a current QAP during GSP program qualifications include the
its eligibility period, you must submit a GSP following:

28
 • You must have graduated from a current • Failure to pay an annual renewal fee.
QAP during its eligibility period. A full list • Failing to complete the CSP within the 10-
of QAPs eligible to participate in the GSP year time limit.
program is located at bcsp.org/GSP.
• Violating the BCSP Code of Ethics
• You must fill out a GSP application through (see bcsp.org/pdf/BCSPcodeofethics.pdf).
‘My Profile’ at bcsp.org.
• You must upload a copy of your official
transcript with degree awarded and date Maintaining Your Mail and Email Address
conferred. As a GSP, you are solely responsible to keep
• You must complete application Agreement BCSP informed of your current mail and email
and Validation (acknowledging truthful address. If either address changes, you must
information has been provided, informing notify BCSP. You could lose the GSP designation
BCSP of any criminal convictions or if annual renewal notices and other important
unethical behavior, and agreeing to adhere information do not reach you.
to BCSP Code of Ethics).
Protecting the GSP and CSP Credentials
• BCSP randomly selects 5% of applications
for audit. As part of the audit, you are BCSP acts to challenge those who use the GSP
required to submit an official transcript and CSP credentials without authority from
showing degree earned and date conferred. BCSP. Penalties may include being barred from
pursuing BCSP certifications and publishing the
Time Limits names of violators.

The following time limits apply to the GSP A directory of those holding certifications
designation: from BCSP, and those who have used BCSP
designations without authority, appear at bcsp.
org.
• Those holding the GSP designation must
meet the experience requirements and
Disciplinary Action
apply for the CSP within ten years of
receiving the GSP. BCSP has a disciplinary action policy. Disciplinary
actions may include any of the following:
• Once a GSP has applied for and become
eligible for the CSP, they must then meet
• Reject or suspend an application
the time limits associated with the CSP
certification. • Terminate or suspend a candidate’s
• Once a GSP has achieved the CSP, the GSP eligibility
designation expires.
• Issue a reprimand
• GSPs must maintain active status until the
CSP is achieved. • Suspend, refuse to renew or revoke the
ASP or CSP
• GSP candidates who lose their GSP status
will have to achieve the ASP certification • Terminate or suspend any status with BCSP
or another BCSP-approved credential to
qualify for the CSP certification, but cannot
reapply for the GSP. The Disciplinary Action Policy is located at bcsp.
org/ About and provides detailed procedures
for bringing charges and for hearings related to
Retaining the GSP disciplinary charges.

The following conditions will result in the loss of

the GSP designation:

29
Annual Renewal Fees ** The position must have breadth of
All who achieve the GSP must pay a GSP annual professional safety duties. This is
renewal fee that is pro-rated for the remainder of determined by evaluating the variety of
the year that their GSP designation was awarded. hazards about which the candidate must
The current GSP annual renewal fee is listed at advise and the range of skills involved in
bcsp.org/Certifications/Safety-Certifications-at- recognizing, evaluating, and controlling
a-Glance. hazards.

Other fees may apply upon achieving the CSP

designation. For example, individuals who pay Once a GSP has met the above criteria for the
their annual renewal fee late may incur a late CSP, they can fill out an application online by
charge or a reinstatement fee if BCSP has acted following the instructions provided in Chapter 3,
to terminate certification. “Application Instructions”.

Unemployed certificants may request a one-year Professional Advancement Mentor Program

waiver of the annual renewal fee in writing only Over the years, many certificants encouraged,
once during their history with BCSP. assisted, or required fellow safety professionals
to pursue certification to advance their careers.
Moving Beyond the GSP Designation BCSP has a program that traces the role
certificants play in assisting aspiring safety
Qualifying for the CSP Examination professionals’ career development and then
CSP candidates must have four years recognizing their contributions. Applicants and
professional safety experience to sit for the CSP mentors can participate in this program by
exam. Professional safety experience must meet completing a Professional Advancement Mentor
the following criteria to qualify: Program Form and submitting it around the time
the candidate’s application is submitted. Forms
and more information are located at bcsp.org.
** Professional safety must be the primary
function of the position. Collateral duties in
safety are not counted.
** The position’s primary responsibility must
be the prevention of harm to people,
property, or the environment, rather than
responsibility for responding to harmful
events.
** Professional safety functions must be at
least 50% of the position duties. BCSP
defines full-time as at least 35 hours
per week. Part-time safety experience is
allowed if the applicant has the equivalent
of at least 900 hours of professional safety
work during any year (75 hours per month
or 18 hours per week) for which experience
credit is sought.
** The position must be at a professional level.
This is determined by evaluating the degree
of professional charge by which there is a
reliance of employees, employers or clients
on the person’s ability to identify, evaluate
and control hazards through engineering
and/or administrative approaches.

30
 Code of Ethics
This code sets forth the code of ethics and professional standards to be observed by holders of documents of
certification conferred by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. Certificants shall, in their professional
activities, sustain and advance the integrity, honor, and prestige of the profession by adherence to these standards.

Standards:
1. HOLD paramount the safety and health of 5. AVOID deceptive acts that falsify or
people, the protection of the environment and misrepresent their academic or professional
protection of property in the performance of qualifications. Not misrepresent or exaggerate
professional duties and exercise their their degree of responsibility in or for the
obligation to advise employers, clients, subject matter of prior assignments.
employees, the public, and appropriate Presentations incident to the solicitation of
authorities of danger and unacceptable risks to employment shall not misrepresent pertinent
people, the environment, or property. facts concerning employers, employees,
associates, or past accomplishments with the
2. BE honest, fair, and impartial; act with intent and purpose of enhancing their
responsibility and integrity. Adhere to high qualifications and their work.
standards of ethical conduct with balanced care
for the interests of the public, employers, 6. CONDUCT their professional relations by the
clients, employees, colleagues and the highest standards of integrity and avoid
profession. Avoid all conduct or practice that compromise of their professional judgment by
is likely to discredit the profession or deceive conflicts of interest. When becoming aware of
the public. professional misconduct by a BCSP certificant,
take steps to bring that misconduct to the
3. ISSUE public statements only in an objective attention of the Board of Certified Safety
and truthful manner and only when founded Professionals.
upon knowledge of the facts and competence in
the subject matter. 7. ACT in a manner free of bias with regard to
religion, ethnicity, gender, age, national origin,
4. UNDERTAKE assignments only when sexual orientation, or disability.
qualified by education or experience in the
specific technical fields involved. Accept 8. SEEK opportunities to be of constructive
responsibility for their continued professional service in civic affairs and work for the
development by acquiring and maintaining advancement of the safety, health and well-
competence through continuing education, being of their community and their profession
experience, professional training and keeping by sharing their knowledge and skills.
current on relevant legal issues.

Approved by the BCSP Board of Directors November 2, 2012

Effective January 1, 2013

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Notes:
 MISSION
BCSP sets and certifies technical competency
criteria for safety, health, and environmental
practitioners worldwide; enhancing careers,
advancing the profession, protecting the public.

VISION
Creating a safer world through safety, health,
and environmental certification.
 ISO/IEC 17024
Personnel Certification Program
#0646

BOARD OF CERTIFIED SAFETY PROFESSIONALS

8645 Guion Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268 USA
P: +1 317-593-4800 | F: +1 317-593-4400
bcsp.org
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