Certification of Generalist OHS Professionals
Certification of generalist OHS professionals and practitioner is standard practice is many countries such as USA, Canada, the UK and Europe.
Last week I listened to Sue Bottrell, Director of Safety Institute of Australia (SIA) discuss the proposed Australian model for certification of OHS Professionals.
While the model is still being developed, the Australian version of certification will be based on recognising qualification, experience, maintenance of processional skills through continuing professional development and membership of a relevant professional body.
At this stage the proposal is for four categories of certification:
- Certified OHS Practitioner
Implementer, oversight and drive compliance
Effectively use a range of OHS tools and processes
Work under supervision (may be remote)
- Certified Graduate OHS Professional
- Certified Professional
Core of profession
Problem solvers based on conceptual and technical knowledge, analysis of evidence and critical thought mediated by experience
Likely to work solo or give direction to others
- Chartered OHS Professional
Designer of strategy and influential with senior managers
High level specialist or strategic skills
Consider broader organisational and social context
What’s in it for OHS professionals?
- Role recognition
- Recognition of education, knowledge and experience
- Employment advantage
- Recognition of Practitioner and Professional roles
- Public indemnity status
- International comparability
- Public listing on certified professional register
- Use of Certified Logo
As the process is still being formalised there will be a transition period and if you are a member of an OHS professional body you will receive ongoing information.
For more information / discussion please contact info@ohscertification.org.au