17 Best Workplace Safety Certifications For Upskilling In 2025
Workplace safety certifications are essential for professionals in industries prioritizing health and safety, ensuring they have the knowledge and skills to maintain safe working environments.
I've summarized the best workplace safety certifications with notes about who and what each is best for so you can find the right one for the next step in your career.
Best Workplace Safety Certifications Shortlist
- Associate Safety Professional (ASP) — Best for advancing career in safety management
- Safe Workplace Certification — Best for ensuring workplace compliance
- Safety & Health Fundamentals Certificate — Best for foundational safety knowledge
- Emergency Safety Specialist Certificate — Best for emergency preparedness professionals
- Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) — Best for hazardous materials management
- Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) Certificate Program — Best for implementing safety systems
- 132-hour Occupational Safety and Health Professional Program — Best for comprehensive safety training
- Certified Occupational Safety Specialist — Best for safety specialists in various industries
- Certified Safety and Health Manager (CSHM) — Best for leadership roles in safety management
- Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) — Best for construction industry safety
- Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) — Best for workplace environmental health
- Occupational Hygiene and Safety Technician (OHST) — Best for hygiene and safety technicians
- Advanced Safety Certificate Program — Best for enhancing safety skills
- Safety Trained Supervisor (STS) — Best for supervisory safety roles
- Safety Management Certificate Program — Best for managing organizational safety
- Certificate in Safety Leadership (CSL) — Best for developing leadership skills in safety
- Certified Safety Director (CSD) — Best for directing safety programs
Overview of the Best Workplace Safety Certification
Below are my detailed summaries of the best workplace safety certifications that made it onto my shortlist.
1. Associate Safety Professional (ASP) - Best for advancing a career in safety management
The Associate Safety Professional (ASP) certification is designed to recognize individuals with knowledge of core concepts of risk management, well-being, and sustainability. This certification acts as a preliminary step towards achieving the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) credential.
Issued by: Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP)
Focus:
- Safety fundamentals
- Health fundamentals
- Environmental fundamentals
- Risk reduction measures
Prerequisites:
- Education: Minimum of a bachelor's degree or an associate degree in safety, health, or environmental fields
- Work Experience: At least one year of relevant safety experience
- Exam: Yes
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Yes, with an annual renewal fee and adherence to recertification requirements
Who It’s For: For professionals looking to advance their careers in safety management. It signifies a strong foundational knowledge of safety, health, and environmental fields and demonstrates a commitment to professional development.
2. Safe Workplace Certification - Best for ensuring workplace compliance
The Safe Workplace Certification is designed for organizations aiming to implement a comprehensive Workplace Violence Prevention Initiative (WVPI). This certification demonstrates a commitment to adhering to national standards, OSHA directives, and industry best practices through a layered approach. Organizations can achieve the certification by addressing the core components of a violence prevention program, either one level at a time or all at once.
Issued by: CPPS
Focus:
- Plans, Policies, and Procedures
- Awareness Training for Employees
- Training for Managers and Frontline Leaders
- Threat Management Team Training
- Executive or Senior Leader Training
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: Not required
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Yes, it is renewed annually through ongoing improvements
Who It’s For: For organizations looking to enhance workplace violence prevention measures, ensuring adherence to recognized safety standards and improving overall workplace safety compliance.
3. Safety & Health Fundamentals Certificate - Best for foundational safety knowledge
The Safety & Health Fundamentals Certificate program at CSUDH OSHA is aiming to reduce incident rates in state and local governments. Participants have the opportunity to earn certificates in Construction and General Industry by completing a minimum of seven courses, which total at least 68 contact hours. The curriculum includes essential courses such as OSHA 511, OSHA 7500, and OSHA 7505, along with elective courses.
Issued by: California State University, Dominguez Hills
Focus:
- Occupational safety and health
- Construction safety
- General industry safety
- Industrial hygiene
- Machinery standards
- Ergonomics
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: Not required
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Not specified (does not mention if it expires or if it can be renewed)
Price: $3,605—$5,705
Who It’s For: For public sector employees and others seeking to enhance their knowledge in occupational safety and health, thereby contributing to safer workplace environments.
4. Emergency Safety Specialist Certificate - Best for emergency preparedness professionals
The Emergency Safety Specialist Certificate program at the University of Washington is specifically designed for Safety Officers and related roles within incident command structures. This certification provides a robust training framework to ensure worker safety during emergencies. Participants benefit from a curriculum that offers career advancement opportunities, a safer workplace environment, and comprehensive knowledge of OSHA standards. The program includes core courses such as OSHA #510, #511, #5410, and #6005, alongside electives that cater to specialized interests.
Issued by: University of Washington
Focus:
- Incident Command Structures
- Worker Safety during Emergencies
- OSHA Standards
- FEMA Training Enhancements
Prerequisites:
- Education: Completion of specific FEMA courses
- Work Experience: Not specified
- Exam: Not required
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Not specified
Price: Estimated costs range from $195 to $795 for required courses, and $195 to $895 for electives, with an application fee of $95
Who It’s For: For Safety Officers and related roles within incident command structures. It validates expertise in emergency preparedness and compliance with safety standards, enhancing roles within safety management and incident command systems.
5. Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) - Best for hazardous materials management
The Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) certification is a professional credential offered by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM). It recognizes individuals as qualified environmental experts and is highly regarded by corporations, universities, and government bodies. Established in 1984, the CHMM certification is designed to assess candidates' knowledge and expertise in managing hazardous materials. It supports career growth in regulatory compliance and safety, enhancing professional credibility.
Issued by: Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM)
Focus:
- Hazardous materials handling
- Emergency response
- Sampling and analysis
- Site investigation
- Program management
Prerequisites:
- Education: Baccalaureate degree from an accredited university
- Work Experience: At least four years of relevant experience in hazardous materials management
- Exam: Yes
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Yes, requires recertification every five years by accumulating 200 certification maintenance points (CMPs)
Price: Application fee is $185, with additional costs for the examination and annual maintenance
Who It’s For: For professionals seeking recognition as environmental experts, enhancing their credibility and supporting career advancement in hazardous materials management.
6. Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) Certificate Program - Best for implementing safety systems
The Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) Certificate Program offered by the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) provides comprehensive training in occupational safety and health. This program is focusing on implementing and auditing effective OHS management systems based on ANSI/ASSP Z10 and ISO 45001 standards. Participants have the opportunity to earn the OHSMS Certificate by completing any three courses, with an option to achieve an Advanced OHSMS Certificate by completing all five courses.
Issued by: American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP)
Focus:
- Management system standards selection
- Assessing and optimizing OHS management systems
- Securing organizational support for system improvements
- Project management and auditing practices
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Tailored for OSH professionals with more than 5 years of experience
- Exam: Not required
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: The certificate does not expire, so no renewal is necessary
Who It’s For: This certification is ideal for experienced occupational safety and health professionals, looking to enhance their skills in system implementation and auditing, providing them with the tools to improve safety management systems within their organizations.
7. 132-hour Occupational Safety and Health Professional Program - Best for comprehensive safety training
The 132-hour Occupational Safety and Health Professional Program offered by OSHAcademy is an online training course aimed at enhancing knowledge in occupational safety and health for general industry. Participants have the flexibility to learn at their own pace with no upfront costs, and they can access course materials for free. Upon completion, certificates can be purchased.
Issued by: OSHAcademy
Focus:
- Hazard recognition
- OSHA compliance
- Federal safety regulations
- Safety program creation
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: Not required
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Certificates do not expire; no renewal required
Price: No upfront costs; certificates can be purchased upon completion starting at $229
Who It’s For: For individuals seeking to transition into occupational safety and health roles, providing a comprehensive foundation and practical skills necessary for creating effective safety programs.
8. Certified Occupational Safety Specialist - Best for safety specialists in various industries
The Certified Occupational Safety Specialist (COSS) program is a comprehensive 40-hour professional development course. It is designed to educate participants on safety requirements and implementation, focusing on essential topics. Available in both in-person and live online formats, the program allows participants to earn 4 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and offers benefits such as increased recognition, earning potential, and networking opportunities.
Issued by: LSU Online & Continuing Education
Focus:
- OSHA regulations
- Safety inspections
- Recordkeeping
- Hazard mitigation
- Hazard analysis
- Job safety planning
- Effective communication
- Fall protection
- Personal protective equipment
Prerequisites:
- Education: Good command of English in listening, speaking, reading, and writing
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: Not required
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Not specified
Price: $1,799
Who It’s For: For individuals who want to effectively apply OSHA standards and enhance their job security and earning potential, making them recognized safety specialists in their respective industries.
9. Certified Safety and Health Manager (CSHM) - Best for leadership roles in safety management
The Certified Safety and Health Manager (CSHM) credential, offered by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM), recognizes professionals with expertise in occupational safety, health, and business management. The certification covers essential areas in the safety and health field of expertise.
Issued by: Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM)
Focus:
- Hazard analysis
- Accident investigation
- Safety audits
- Compliance with environmental laws
Prerequisites:
- Education: A Bachelor’s and Associate’s degrees in safety-related field
- Work Experience: Relevant experience in occupational safety and health, safety audits, hazard analysis, and business management
- Exam: Yes
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: The certification requires recertification every five years, needing 200 certification maintenance points (CMPs)
Price: Application fee is $185, with additional costs for the examination and annual maintenance
Who It’s For: For professionals aiming for executive roles by showcasing expertise in managing workplace safety and ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations.
10. Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) - Best for construction industry safety
Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) certification
The CHST certification is designed for safety professionals working in the construction industry. This credential validates a professional’s ability to manage job site safety and reduce risks. It’s widely recognized in the industry as a standard for construction health and safety competency.
Issued by: Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP)
Focus:
- Hazard identification and control
- Emergency preparedness
- Safety program development
- Leadership and communication
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Minimum of three years of experience or 35% of duties related to construction safety
- Exam: Yes
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Yes, it is renewable. Requires an annual renewal fee and meeting recertification requirements
Price: Starts at $140 of application fee, and additional fee for examination training
Who It’s For: For safety, health, and environmental (SH&E) specialists on construction job sites, seeking to demonstrate their competence in construction safety and health management.
11. Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) - Best for workplace environmental health
The Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) demonstrates expertise in identifying, evaluating, and controlling environmental hazards in the workplace. This certification covers a wide range of industrial hygiene topics and requires a combination of education, work experience, and a comprehensive exam.
Issued by: Board for Global EHS Credentialing (BGC)
Focus:
- Exposure Assessment
- Control Selection
- Risk Management
- Analytical Chemistry
- Toxicology
- Ergonomics
Prerequisites:
- Education: Bachelor’s or higher-degree program from an appropriately-accredited college or university
- Work Experience: Minimum of four years in industrial hygiene
- Exam: Yes
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Meets ongoing requirements to maintain certification
Who It’s For: For professionals aiming to ensure workplace safety and compliance with health regulations, allowing them to effectively manage environmental health risks in various occupational settings.
12. Occupational Hygiene and Safety Technician (OHST) - Best for hygiene and safety technicians
The Occupational Hygiene and Safety Technician® (OHST®) certification is a credential that verifies the knowledge and skills of professionals in occupational hygiene and safety. It demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a safe work environment and enhances professional credibility. This certification is recognized for its emphasis on industrial hygiene, ensuring that certified individuals are well-equipped to manage and execute safety protocols effectively.
Issued by: Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP)
Focus:
- Occupational Hygiene
- Industrial Safety
- Safety Practices
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Minimum of three years of experience or with at least 35% of duties related to occupational hygiene or safety.
- Exam: Yes
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Yes, it is renewable. Requires an annual renewal fee and meeting recertification requirements
Price: Starts at $140 of application fee, and additional fee for examination training
Who It’s For: For safety practitioners looking to validate their skills and advance their career in occupational hygiene and safety roles.
13. Advanced Safety Certificate Program - Best for enhancing safety skills
The Advanced Safety Certificate (ASC) Program is a nationally recognized curriculum designed to develop exceptional safety practitioners. It builds upon existing safety knowledge and sharpens leadership skills to drive fundamental safety changes within organizations.
Issued by: National Safety Council (NSC)
Focus:
- Safety management techniques
- Industrial hygiene principles
- Safety training methods
- Incident investigation
- Ergonomics
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: Not required
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Not specified
Price: Starts at $439
Who It’s For: For professionals who are aiming to enhance their safety management skills and lead effective safety programs.
14. Safety Trained Supervisor (STS) - Best for supervisory safety roles
The Safety Trained Supervisor (STS) certification, offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP), is designed for leaders across various organizational levels who may not have safety as their primary duty but play a crucial role in promoting safe and healthy workplaces. The certification demonstrates a commitment to reducing workplace risks and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. It is widely recognized as a standard for safety leadership in various industries.
Issued by: Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP)
Focus:
- Monitoring job hazards
- Ensuring regulatory compliance
- Training employees in safety practices
- Performing safety documentation tasks
- Leadership and communication
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Two years of supervisory experience or four years of work experience, or completion of a two (2) year trade or union training program/apprenticeship
- Exam: Yes
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Yes, it requires annual fees and recertification requirements
Price: Starts at $120 of application fee, and additional cost for examination training
Who It’s For: This certification is ideal for supervisors who are responsible for safety in their work environments. It ensures they have a comprehensive understanding of safety practices to lead their teams effectively.
15. Safety Management Certificate Program - Best for managing organizational safety
The Safety Management Certificate Program, offered by the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP), is designed to equip participants with essential skills for managing effective safety management systems. Participants will learn to assess system effectiveness, position safety within organizations, and align safety management with strategic goals. Upon completion, the certificate is available for download within 48 to 72 hours.
Issued by: American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP)
Focus:
- Leadership
- Ethics
- Budgeting
- Workers' compensation
- Safety system design
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: Not required
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Not specified
Who It’s For: Particularly beneficial for occupational safety and health professionals, especially those with less than three years of experience or who have recently assumed safety management roles.
16. Certificate in Safety Leadership (CSL) - Best for developing leadership skills in safety
The Certificate in Safety Leadership (CSL) at the University of New Brunswick (UNB) is an online program designed to enhance leadership skills among safety practitioners. It includes three courses: OHS 5073 - Leading People, OHS 5074 - Organizational Leadership, and OHS 5075 - Safety Leadership.
Issued by: University of New Brunswick
Focus:
- Developing effective communication and leadership strategies
- Influencing senior leadership and navigating organizational structures
- Driving safety initiatives
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not specified
- Work Experience: Not specified
- Exam: Yes
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Not specified
Price: $1,740 for the entire program
Who It’s For: This certification is ideal for safety practitioners looking to refine their leadership skills and drive positive change in workplace safety management.
17. Certified Safety Director (CSD) - Best for directing safety programs
The Certified Safety Director (CSD) certification, offered by NASP, is designed to recognize professionals who excel in safety management, strategic problem-solving, and implementation of safety strategies. The certification is accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board under ISO/IEC 17024:2012 standards. Candidates are required to demonstrate a significant portion of their role involves safety responsibilities.
Issued by: NASP
Focus:
- Safety management strategies
- Problem-solving in safety contexts
- Strategic application of safety protocols
- Ethical standards in safety practices
Prerequisites:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree, Associate’s degree, and High School Diploma
- Work Experience: 2-5 years of professional safety experience
- Exam: Yes
- Other Certifications Required: Relevant safety credential
Renewability: Requires recertification through professional development and Continuing Educational Units (CEUs).
Price:
- Application fee: $75
- Exam fee: $395
- Recertification fee: $195
- Optional CSD Prep Course: $595
Who It’s For: This certification is ideal for professionals aiming to direct safety programs and those in roles where safety management is a significant component of their responsibilities.
FAQs about workplace safety certifications
What is a workplace safety certification?
A workplace safety certification is a formal recognition that an individual or organization has met specific safety standards and requirements. These certifications are often provided by recognized safety organizations and are designed to ensure that safety practices are understood and implemented effectively in the workplace.
Why are workplace safety certifications important?
Workplace safety certifications are important because they help to minimize risks and hazards in the workplace. They demonstrate a commitment to maintaining a safe working environment, which can lead to fewer accidents and injuries, improved employee morale, and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
How can an organization benefit from its employees having workplace safety certifications?
Organizations can benefit from their employees having workplace safety certifications by reducing the likelihood of workplace accidents, which can lead to lower insurance premiums and fewer legal liabilities. Additionally, certified employees are often more knowledgeable about safety protocols, which can improve overall workplace safety culture.
Who provides workplace safety certifications?
Workplace safety certifications are typically provided by professional organizations and regulatory bodies such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States, the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) in the UK, and other local or industry-specific safety organizations.
How long is a workplace safety certification valid?
The validity of a workplace safety certification can vary depending on the issuing organization and the type of certification. Some certifications may need to be renewed annually, while others might be valid for several years. It is essential to check with the certifying body for specific renewal requirements.
Other Useful Resources
Here are other useful resources to check out:
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