How to become BCSP SMS professional. Becoming a Safety Management Specialist (SMS) through the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) is an excellent choice for safety professionals focusing on management and leadership in safety systems. The SMS credential is designed for individuals with experience in developing, implementing, and managing safety programs.
Steps to Become a BCSP SMS Professional
1. Understand the SMS Credential
The Safety Management Specialist (SMS) credential demonstrates expertise in:
- Managing safety and health programs.
- Implementing safety management systems.
- Leading organizational safety strategies.
2. Meet Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the SMS certification, you must meet the following education and experience requirements:
- Education:
- No specific degree is required for the SMS, making it accessible for those without a college degree.
- Experience:
- At least 10 years of safety management experience is required if you do not hold any BCSP-qualified credentials.
- If you hold a BCSP-approved credential (e.g., Associate Safety Professional (ASP), Certified Safety Professional (CSP)), the required experience is reduced to 5 years.
3. Prepare for the SMS Exam
The SMS exam evaluates knowledge in safety management and organizational leadership. The content is divided into domains:
- Safety Management Systems (35% of the exam)
- Development, implementation, and continuous improvement of safety systems.
- Risk Management (25%)
- Identifying, assessing, and controlling workplace risks.
- Leadership and Commitment (20%)
- Promoting safety culture and obtaining leadership support.
- Safety Program Development and Implementation (20%)
- Planning and executing safety initiatives aligned with organizational goals.
Exam Details:
- Format: 110 multiple-choice questions (100 scored, 10 unscored).
- Duration: 2 hours.
- Passing Score: Pass/fail, based on BCSP’s scoring standard.
- Location: Administered at Pearson VUE testing centers or online.
4. Apply for the SMS Exam
To apply:
- Create an account on the BCSP website.
- Submit your application along with documentation of your work experience.
- Pay the application fee (approximately $140).
- Once approved, pay the exam fee (approximately $350) and schedule your exam.
5. Study for the SMS Exam
Preparation is key to passing the SMS exam. Follow these steps:
- Review the Exam Blueprint:
- Download the official SMS Exam Blueprint from the BCSP website to understand the content areas.
- Use Study Materials:
- Books:
- Safety Management Systems: Applications for the SMS Exam by Daniel Patrick O’Brien.
- BCSP-recommended safety management texts.
- Online Courses:
- Bowen EHS, ASSP, and other safety training providers offer SMS-specific prep courses.
- Practice Tests:
- Use practice exams to test your knowledge and familiarize yourself with the exam format.
- Books:
- Join Professional Organizations:
- Network with safety professionals through the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) for resources, mentorship, and study groups.
6. Take the Exam
- Arrive at the test center or log in online on exam day.
- Bring an approved form of identification and confirmation of your exam appointment.
7. Maintain Your SMS Certification
Once certified, maintain your SMS credential by earning recertification points every 5 years. This involves:
- Continuing education (e.g., workshops, seminars).
- Professional practice.
- Publishing safety-related articles or presenting at conferences.
Career Benefits of SMS Certification
- Recognition: Demonstrates expertise in safety management systems and leadership.
- Career Advancement: Qualifies you for management-level roles like Safety Director, Risk Manager, or EHS Manager.
- Higher Salary: SMS-certified professionals often earn higher-than-average salaries in safety and health careers.
- Global Opportunities: The SMS credential is recognized internationally, enabling career mobility.
