Training or Certifications to Get Noticed
Good morning, everyone!
After 5-years of doing safety at a small distribution facility, I opted to pursue my master's degree in Occupational Health and Safety, which, if everything goes according to plan, I should have completed in late September of this year. Upon completion, I will be given the GSP designation and will begin prepping for the CSP examination.
In the meantime, my regional general manager has let me know that the company would be willing to pay for any additional training or certifications I pursue within reason. I have already completed both OSHA-10 and OSHA-30 general industry and the standard CPR/AED/First Aid Training.
In an attempt to get noticed and secure a full-time position in safety, would anyone be able to recommend training or certifications that would help?
Comments (4)
Do you want to stay in the distribution industry? Or are you open to other roles?
Regardless, in addition to your CSP certification, I'd aim for your OSHA #511/#501 certs (or OSHA #510/#500 if you decide to go into the construction industry).
I'm not sure how comfortable you are with performing CPR and First Aid, but if you feel comfortable doing so, obtaining your trainer certification for this would stand out as a good certification and cost savings for the employer.
The BCSP's CIT certification would be great to show your competence and ability to deliver proper EHS training.
There are also industry-specific certs, such as the IHMM's CHMM certification for the chemical industry, the CSHO certification that's more/widely recognized in the gulf coast and in oil/gas industry (but applies anywhere), and several others.
Consider the SSHO, CSHO, SHEP, and Advanced Safety Certificate thru the National Safety Council.
They build upon each other, and the content is awesome. Great way to stretch your knowledge. Also provides interactions with other safety folks from a wide range of industries. Example: Fall Protection with tower climbers giving their perspective, or ironworkers. The 500 series is sought after, and specialties like Qualified Fall Pro or Rigging Inspections. Whatever you pursue, your goal is to know more than, or know where to get information that employees will ask. You are as close to the subject matter expert when questions are asked. Know the regs, products, and limitations. Ergonomics, and Work Comp training or experience is a HUGE plus. Just my two cents.