How to qualify for CRST or CRSP? To qualify for the CRST (Construction Health and Safety Technician) or CRSP (Canadian Registered Safety Professional) certification, you must meet specific education, experience, and examination requirements. These certifications are highly respected in Canada and demonstrate expertise in occupational health and safety (OHS).
CRST (Construction Health and Safety Technician)
Overview
- Designed for entry-level to mid-career safety professionals in the construction industry.
- Administered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP).
Eligibility Requirements
You must meet one of the following:
- Option 1:
- High school diploma (or equivalent)
- 1 year of construction safety experience (where safety is at least 50% of job duties).
- Option 2:
- Associate degree (or higher) in any field
- 1 year of general safety experience (construction-related preferred).
Exam Details
- 100 multiple-choice questions (2 hours).
- Covers:
- OSHA regulations (focus on construction standards, 29 CFR 1926).
- Hazard recognition, fall protection, scaffolding, electrical safety.
How to Apply
- Submit an application via BCSP’s website.
- Pay the exam fee (~$250 USD).
- Schedule the exam at a Pearson VUE test center.
CRSP (Canadian Registered Safety Professional)
Overview
- A senior-level certification for OHS professionals in Canada.
- Administered by the Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals (BCRSP).
Eligibility Requirements
You must meet all of the following:
- Education:
- Minimum diploma or degree in OHS or a related field (e.g., engineering, science).
- If your degree is unrelated, you may need additional OHS courses.
- Experience:
- At least 4 years of full-time OHS work (50%+ safety-related duties).
- 1 year must be in Canada (if applying as a Canadian candidate).
- Exam: Pass the CRSP exam (see below).
CRSP Exam Details
- 200 multiple-choice questions (4 hours).
- Covers:
- Canadian OHS laws (CCOHS, provincial regulations).
- Risk assessment, hazard control, safety program management.
How to Apply
- Submit an application via BCRSP’s website.
- Provide transcripts, job descriptions, and references.
- Pay fees (~$650 CAD for exam + application).
- Schedule the exam at a Prometric test center.
Key Differences: CRST vs. CRSP
| Factor | CRST | CRSP |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Entry/mid-career | Senior professional |
| Focus | Construction safety | General OHS (Canada-specific) |
| Experience Needed | 1 year | 4 years |
| Exam Difficulty | Moderate | Challenging |
| Best For | U.S./Canada construction roles | Canadian OHS leadership |
Study Resources
For CRST
- OSHA 30-Hour Construction (free online via OSHA Outreach).
- Construction Safety and Health (David L. Goetsch).
For CRSP
- CRSP Exam Guide (BCRSP official handbook).
- Canadian Health and Safety Law (Norm Keith).
Next Step
- Choose the Right Cert:
- CRST if you work in U.S./Canada construction.
- CRSP if you aim for Canadian OHS management roles.
- Gather Documentation: Job descriptions, transcripts.
- Start Studying: Use practice exams (e.g., BCSP/BCRSP mock tests).
Need help finding a prep course or tutor? Ask below!
Tip: The CRST can be a stepping stone to CRSP if you later gain more experience. If you want to receive a legitimate CRST or CRSP certificate, you’ve come to the right spot. We can help you get a valid CRST or CRSP online without having to take an exam. Learn more about how to get a valid CRST or CRSP online without worry.
