BCSP certificate

How to become BCSP CHST professional

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To become a Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) through the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP), you need to meet specific education and experience requirements, pass the CHST exam, and maintain the certification through recertification points. The CHST credential is designed for professionals who focus on construction safety and health, such as safety coordinators, safety specialists, or forepersons with safety responsibilities.

Steps to Become a BCSP CHST Professional

Understand the CHST Credential

The CHST certification demonstrates your expertise in construction safety practices and your ability to oversee safety on job sites. It is ideal for professionals aiming to advance in construction safety roles or comply with OSHA regulations.

Meet Eligibility Requirements
  1. Education:
    • A high school diploma or GED is the minimum requirement.
    • A higher degree (associate or bachelor’s) is not mandatory but may be advantageous.
  2. Experience:
    • At least 3 years of safety experience in the construction industry.
    • Your experience must include at least 35% safety duties, such as hazard control, safety training, compliance audits, or safety program management.
  3. Training and Courses:
    • It is recommended to complete OSHA 30-hour construction safety training or equivalent safety courses to build foundational knowledge.
Apply for the CHST Credential
  1. Create a BCSP Account:
    • Register on the BCSP website to begin your application.
  2. Submit the Application:
    • Provide details of your education and work experience.
    • Pay the application fee (approximately $140).
  3. Application Review:
    • BCSP will review your application to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria.
Prepare for the CHST Exam

The CHST exam assesses your knowledge in key areas of construction health and safety. The exam content includes:

  1. Safety and Health Program Management (28%)
    • Developing and implementing safety policies and programs.
    • Managing resources to promote safety.
  2. Worksite Auditing (25%)
    • Conducting inspections and hazard assessments.
    • Ensuring compliance with OSHA standards.
  3. Training (22%)
    • Developing and delivering safety training.
    • Evaluating the effectiveness of safety education.
  4. Professional Responsibility (25%)
    • Ethical practice and accountability.
    • Managing incident investigations and documentation.
Exam Details
  • Format: 200 multiple-choice questions (175 scored, 25 unscored).
  • Duration: 4 hours.
  • Passing Score: Pass/fail is based on BCSP’s scoring system.
  • Location: Exams are administered at Pearson VUE test centers or online.
Study for the CHST Exam
  1. Review the BCSP Exam Blueprint:
    • Download the CHST Exam Blueprint from the BCSP website to understand the exam content.
  2. Study Materials:
    • Books:
      • Construction Safety and Health by David L. Goetsch.
      • Fundamentals of Construction Safety and Health by Ronald G. Garrett.
    • Practice Exams:
      • Use CHST practice exams to identify strengths and weaknesses.
    • Online Courses:
      • Providers like Bowen EHS and ASSP offer CHST preparation courses and practice tests.
  3. Join Study Groups:
    • Connect with other candidates or CHST professionals through forums or professional organizations like ASSP.
Take the CHST Exam
  1. Schedule the Exam:
    • Pay the exam fee (approximately $300).
    • Choose a convenient date and location (or online option).
  2. Day of the Exam:
    • Bring valid identification and your appointment confirmation.
    • Use the full 4 hours to carefully answer all questions.
Maintain Your CHST Certification

To keep your CHST credential, you must:

  • Earn 20 recertification points every 5 years through continuing education, professional development, or additional certifications.
  • Pay the annual renewal fee to BCSP.

Career Opportunities with CHST

The CHST certification can lead to roles such as:

  • Construction Safety Manager
  • Site Safety Coordinator
  • EHS Specialist (Construction Focus)
  • Risk Management Officer
Salaries:
  • Entry-level: $60,000–$80,000 per year.
  • Mid-level: $80,000–$100,000 per year.
  • Senior roles: $100,000+ per year, depending on experience and location.

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