A safety manager makes sure your team follows the best safety practices and guidelines. They’re also responsible for managing and developing your company’s safety management system. For career advancement or further training, here are 10 courses for safety manager training.
Safety managers have a crucial role in your company’s safety culture. They implement all the safety systems and practices your team follows to prevent accidents and injuries. Without a safety manager, your company’s safety management system can’t protect your employees.
An efficient and effective safety manager is the cornerstone for a safe, healthy, and accident-free workplace. Create stronger SMSs and keep your team safe with safety manager training.
What is included in basic safety manager training?
Safety manager training teaches your employees how to apply and improve your company’s SMS through site inspections, accident investigations, and hazard identification. This includes learning about the various safety systems, programs, and controls that target specific workplace hazards. It also covers how to follow the different Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations that are relevant to your industry.
How to become a safety manager
Becoming a safety manager has several requirements. A key requirement is a few years of professional experience. Proven experience can build essential safety manager skills like recognizing common hazards, implementing safety controls, and handling emergencies. It also establishes a history of observing and applying OSHA regulations and guidelines.
A bachelor’s degree may also be a requirement for some companies. A degree related to occupational safety and health, chemistry, or engineering is preferable. If your potential safety managers don’t have a degree or are currently studying, they can gain certifications from an accredited safety management program.
Some safety manager certifications can be obtained if the applicant has or is studying for a college degree. The Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BSP) offers a few safety management programs to gain a certification with a college degree. Here are are the requirements for certifications for general safety managers:
Associate Safety Professional (ASP)
An ASP is certified by the BSP for their knowledge and skills in maintaining safety and health standards. You must have a bachelor’s degree or an associate’s degree and 1 year of safe working experience to take the ASP exam.
Certified Safety Professional (CSP)
A CSP certification is a step above the ASP. It offers greater career paths and proves your knowledge on creating and implementing SMSs. You need to have a bachelor’s degree, 4 years of safe working experience, and a BCSP credential like an ASP.
Graduate Safety Practitioner (GSP)
A GSP is an alternative way to receive a CSP. If you meet the BCSP’s Qualified Academic Program (QAP) standards, you can receive a CSP without needing an ASP. After receiving a GSP certification, you can take the CSP exam within six years.
There are other ways to get certifications without a college degree. The only requirement for these certifications is extensive professional experience and a proven track record in safety management skills. It’s also great to add specialized safety certifications for your role or industry. For example, you can receive an OSHA safety manager certification for construction, maritime, or general industry through their Safety & Health Fundamentals Certificate Program.
Develop your team with safety manager training courses
Safety manager training is essential for maintaining your company’s SMS. These managers play a critical role in creating, maintaining, and developing your company’s safety practices. Without a safety manager to lead these occupational health initiatives, it can be difficult foster a safer workplace.
Train the potential safety managers in your team with Mitti (by SafetyCulture). With their powerful team management tools and microlearning technologies, you can easily improve your company’s safety practices through education and training. Sign up now to deliver safety manager training courses.