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Complete-Guide-STS2.pdf
Complete Guide to the STS APPLICATION AND EXAMINATION INFORMATION
SECOND EDITION | NOVEMBER 2018
Safety Trained Supervisor®
DISCLAIMER: An individual’s status with BCSP is an indicator that an individual has completed a combination of defined education, experience, and examination requirements. However, certification is not a guarantee or assurance of the competence or ability of any particular individual. Further, given the rapid changes in the field, BCSP cannot warrant that any examination and other certification materials will at all times reflect the most current state of the art. BCSP disclaims liability for any personal injury, property or other damages of any nature whatsoever, whether special, indirect, consequential or compensatory, directly or indirectly resulting from the certification program or the acts or omissions of any person who has been certified by BCSP. In conducting the certification program, including issuing certifications, BCSP is not undertaking to render professional or other services for or on behalf of any person or entity, nor is BCSP undertaking to perform any duty owed by any person or entity to someone else. Anyone using the services of a person who has been certified should rely on his or her own independent judgment as appropriate in determining the exercise of reasonable care in any given circumstances.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 | INTRODUCTION 1
CHAPTER 2 | CERTIFICATION SUMMARY 3
CHAPTER 3 | APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS 5
CHAPTER 4 | PREPARING FOR THE EXAM 7
CHAPTER 5 | EXAM OVERVIEW 10
CHAPTER 6 | EXAM SAMPLE QUESTIONS 15
CHAPTER 7 | AFTER ACHIEVING CERTIFICATION 17
© 2018 Board of Certified Safety Professionals, Indianapolis, Indiana USA
All rights reserved. A BCSP Publication
All or any part of this document may be freely copied and distributed with the following restrictions: Excerpts, in any form or medium, must include a formal statement acknowledging that the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) is the owner of the
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BCSP is committed to impartiality and objectivity in every aspect of our operation. We have intentionally structured ourselves to segregate responsibilities
in our organization to facilitate this impartiality and objectivity. BCSP also evaluates each application individually without regards to age, gender, race, religion, national origin,
marital status, disability, or sexual orientation.
This publication is not intended to guarantee that the user will pass an exam, become certified or in general may not cover every aspect of the certification process.
Additionally, this publication is not considered training or preparatory in any manner. BCSP makes no promises or warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, of the
actions of third party organizations.
This Publication is subject to change without notice at anytime.
Complete Guide to the STS® Second Edition | November 2018
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The Safety Trained Supervisor® (STS®) Certification BCSP awards the Safety Trained Supervisor to individuals who demonstrate competency and work part-time or full-time in supervisory positions with task devoted to the prevention of harm to individuals in the workplace environment. Whether your career goals include seeking a new position, moving up in your current organization or moving into private practice, you can accelerate your opportunities by achieving the Safety Trained Supervisor (STS) certification. You can improve your chances for success, being selected for leadership positions, and increased salary through obtaining an STS credential. BCSP offers you the opportunity to rise above the competition by adding the STS certification to your portfolio.
Purpose of This Guide The purpose of this guide is to walk you through the process of applying for and taking an examination leading to the STS certification. This guide is the first step to help you achieve the credential.
How to Use This Guide This guide provides you with in-depth information regarding the application process, examination process and the rules and procedures essential in retaining the STS certification after you achieve it. Reading and following the suggestions and rules in this guide will help you navigate your path to the STS certification.
Visit bcsp.org and click on “My Profile” to create an account and apply for your desired certification(s). If you need further assistance you may contact the Certification Services Department at +1 317-593-4800 or by email at [email protected].
Important Information For the most current version of this publication, please visit bcsp.org/STS.
As a candidate or certificant you are solely responsible to keep BCSP informed of your current mail and email address. If either address changes, you must notify BCSP. You could lose your credential or eligibility status if you miss important notifications related to your credential.
CHAPTER 1 | INTRODUCTION
THE CERTIFICATION PROCESS
DETERMINED ELIGIBLE ONE YEAR ELIGIBILITY
RECEIVE CERTIFICATION
SCHEDULE EXAM
PAY EXAM FEE
PASS EXAM
FAIL
ANNUAL RENEWAL FEE
FIVE-YEAR RECERTIFICATION
START HERE
APPLY ONLINE
PURCHASE EXAM $ SIT FOR
EXAM
MAINTAIN CERTIFICATION
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Overview of the STS Certification The STS is a certification awarded by BCSP to individuals who meet all of the Board-established requirements for the certification.
The STS Process One of the most common questions by potential candidates is “What do I have to do to become a STS?” The process has several stages, each one building on the other.
1. Are You Eligible? Training Requirement: All individuals applying for the STS must have completed 30 hours of formal safety and health training through a single course or multiple training courses. Appropriate training includes any safety and health courses, conferences or internal company training, to name a few.
Experience Requirement:
Safety Trained Supervisor: STS candidates must have two (2) years supervisory experience or four (4) years work experience in any industry (work experience must be a minimum part-time [18 hrs/week] to qualify).
2. Submit Your Application
BCSP reviews all application materials to determine eligibility for the STS examination. Candidates must meet all requirements in order to be made eligible to sit for the STS examination for which they have applied. More information about the application process can be found in Chapter 3, “Application Instructions”.
3. Purchase Your Exam Anytime during the one-year eligibility period, candidates may pay for their examination through “My Profile” at bcsp.org or by calling Certification Services at +1 317-593-4800. The examination authorization period begins the day a candidate purchases an exam (within their one year eligibility period) and ends once he/she has passed the examination or on the day their eligibility ends, whichever comes first.
Active or retired military may qualify for a reimbursement of the examination fee through the VA. The VA Brochure is located on the BCSP website for more information.
4. Schedule Your Exam Once BCSP has processed your examination fee, you will then be able to schedule your examination with Pearson VUE. Pearson VUE is the official computer-based testing provider for all BCSP examinations. More information about scheduling your examination can be found in Chapter 5, “Exam Overview”.
5. Sit For Your Exam Candidates eligible for an STS examination must pass the examination within their one-year of eligibility.
BCSP allows candidates to extend their eligibility time limit once during their term and the extension is valid for one year. Extensions are available for purchase within the last 60 days of a candidate’s eligibility period. Extensions can be purchased through “My Profile” at bcsp.org, as long as the candidate is eligible.
Those who do not meet this time limit nor purchase the eligibility extension must reapply as a new candidate and meet the current application requirements. A detailed outline of eligibility is provided once an application has been approved.
BCSP’s examination provider, Pearson VUE (pearsonvue.com/BCSP), has test centers located around the world and operates every business day. All Pearson VUE testing sites are subject to change based on criteria provided by Pearson VUE. Please be sure to check regularly for available locations when scheduling an exam. Examinations are delivered via computer at the test center.
Candidates will be given their examination results at the center immediately after submitting their exam. Candidates that fail may purchase a new examination authorization which can be used to
ABOUT BCSP Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, BCSP is a not-for-profit corporation recognized as a leader in high-quality, accredited credentialing for safety, health, and environmental (SH&E) practitioners. BCSP establishes standards and certifies competency criteria in professional safety practice. Since 1969, over 68,000 of BCSP’s CSP, SMS, ASP, OHST, CHST, STS, STSC, or CET certifications have been achieved.
CAREER INFORMATION For details on careers in SH&E, download from the BCSP website:
• Career Paths in Safety (brochure)
For a comprehensive list of accredited U.S. academic programs, search the BCSP Academic Database. If you have questions, please email us: [email protected].
ACCREDITATION AND RECOGNITION BCSP’s certifications are accredited by at least one of the following independent third-party organizations that evaluate certification requirements on a regular basis.
• American National Standards Institute (ANSI), ansi.org [ISO/IEC 17024, General Requirements for Bodies Operating Certification Systems of Persons]
• National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), credentialingexcellence.org
• Council of Engineering and Scientific Specialty Boards (CESB), cesb.org
BCSP has been granted special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) since 2014.
CERTIFICATIONS Certified Safety Professional® (CSP®)
• has been in operation for more than 40 years with over 40,000 CSPs certified
• is the premier certification in the safety profession
• covers a wide range of safety, health and environmental (SH&E) practice disciplines
Safety Management Specialist (SMS) • demonstrates management skills required for an organization’s
safe operation, including defining and utilizing safety management systems
Associate Safety Professional® (ASP®) • demonstrates a broad scope of knowledge of SH&E practice
• serves as one of several approved credentials meeting requirements for the CSP
Occupational Hygiene and Safety Technician® (OHST®) • provides practitioners with partial responsibility in SH&E with a
high quality certification
Construction Health and Safety Technician® (CHST®) • offers a certification for individuals who work in a construction
craft or are construction safety specialists
Safety Trained Supervisor® (STS®) • provides a quality certification for work group leaders in various
industries who are responsible for the safety and health of their workers
• is a leading indicator of safety performance
• has led to reductions in injuries and workers’ compensation claims and has created productivity gains in participating companies
Safety Trained Supervisor Construction® (STSC®) • holds the same requirements and benefits as the Safety Trained
Supervisor certification but provides a quality certification for work group leaders working specifically in construction
Certified Environmental, Safety and Health Trainer® (CET®)
• certifies those who have experience and expertise in developing, designing, and delivering SH&E training
CHAPTER 2 | CERTIFICATION SUMMARY
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sit for the exam six weeks after the most recent attempt, as long as they remain eligible.
Note: If you need special examination facilities or accommodation arrangements for documented disabilities (consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the American Disabilities Amendment Act), you must request the accommodation with BCSP at the time you purchase your exam. Accommodation requests should be emailed to accommodations@bcsp. org. Failure to request at the time of exam purchase may impact your ability to have the accommodation provided at the testing center.
For a list of current fees, visit bcsp.org/ Certifications/Safety-Certifications-at-a-Glance.
6. Maintain Certification Annual Renewal Fees: After completing all of the requirements, BCSP awards candidates who pass the STS exam with the STS credential. Certificants will need to pay annual renewal fees in order to maintain certification. A prorated renewal fee will be applied for the remainder of the year in which the candidate passes the exam.
Recertification: STSs must remain up-to-date with changes in professional practice by earning 3 recertification points every five years. Additional information regarding recertification can be found in the Recertification Guide, located at bcsp.org/ Certifications/Recertification.
Application Instructions Individuals who wish to pursue the STS certification must create a profile through “My Profile” at bcsp. org. Once you have created your profile, you may select the certification application you are interested in and follow the online instructions. Candidates for certification apply only once, provided they follow all policies and stay within their eligibility time limit.
A complete application requires candidates to provide:
1. Contact Information
2. Training Information
3. Experience Information
4. Application Agreement and Validation (acknowledging truthful information has been provided, informing BCSP of any criminal convictions or unethical behavior, and agreeing to adhere to BCSP Code of Ethics, and not disclose any information.)
5. Payment of Application If you are unable to submit online and require a paper application, there will be processing fee. Please call our office for more details.
Do not send resumes, professional papers, continuing education course certificates, or any other items that are not specifically requested. After you submit your application, BCSP Certification Services will contact you with any questions or once your application review has been completed.
The application fee is nonrefundable and nontransferable. For a list of current fees, visit bcsp. org/Certifications/Safety-Certifications-at-a- Glance. You will be prompted to include payment along with your application. Your application will not be complete until payment for the application fee and any additional requested materials have been received. If all application requirements have not been met within one year of the application submission date, the application will expire.
Validation BCSP requires applicants to disclose criminal convictions, disciplinary actions, and denial or revocation of certifications, licenses and
professional registrations taken against the applicant by the issuing certification board or agency. BCSP uses its policy relating to criminal convictions to determine whether the application can proceed or whether it will be terminated. In some cases, a BCSP attorney may contact the applicant to clarify information about the conviction. A copy of the BCSP criminal conviction policy appears at bcsp.org/STS under the Resources tab “Policies and Forms.”
Applicants are required to provide disclosure of:
• All felony convictions
• All misdemeanor convictions within the past five (5) years (Minor traffic violations and petty offenses DO NOT have to be reported)
• Any record of unethical behavior
• Information related to having a professional license or certification denied, suspended or revoked for reasons other than not meeting qualifications, failure of examination, or failure to pay renewal fees
Auditing BCSP randomly selects 5% of applications for audit. If your application is selected, you will be required to provide training and experience documents.
Acceptable forms of validation documentation for training received are certificates of attendance/ completion or a letter from your employer confirming training received. Acceptable forms of validation documentation for experience are:
1. A letter on company letterhead from employer validating employment dates, job title and percentage of job duties which are/were safety/ health/environmental.
2. BCSP Experience Validation Form completed by employer (ONLY IF YOUR APPLICATION IS SELECTED FOR AUDIT).
3. If your application required college education, you must also have the issuing university send your official conferred transcript to BCSP.
4. If your application required training, you must upload supporting documentation proving your completion of this training.
CHAPTER 3 | APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
www.bcsp.org
My Profile
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CHAPTER 4 | PREPARING FOR THE EXAM
Preparing for the Examination You may use various approaches to prepare for the examination:
• Complete Self-Assessment
• Perform individual study
• Participate in informal study groups
• Attend formal review courses
Some keys to success include:
• Knowing your strengths and weaknesses
• Having an examination preparation plan
• Developing a test-taking strategy
• Understanding how to use your calculator
Having an Examination Study Plan The examination blueprint shows how the items on an examination are distributed across domains. The percentage of items per task is noted on the examination blueprint. The blueprint covers tasks for the STS examination.
Converting your subject strengths and weaknesses into a study plan is likely to increase your overall examination score. Scoring well in one subject area can compensate for a weaker score in another subject area. However, there may not be enough items in your strong areas to achieve a passing score.
Note that knowledge and understanding are essential in passing the examination. Relying only on simulated examination items is not the best way to increase knowledge and understanding. Use simulated items to provide insight into the areas in which you should engage in additional study.
Developing a Test-Taking Strategy Knowing how to take the examination will help improve your score. The examination uses multiple-choice items with only one correct answer and three incorrect answers. Remember, the goal is to get as many items correct as possible. There is no penalty for selecting an
incorrect answer. However, only correct answers count toward reaching the passing score.
• Read the items carefully
• Consider the context
• Use examination time wisely
• Go back to troublesome items
• Complete all items
Using Your Authorized Calculator(s) The candidate is allowed to bring one or two calculators into the secure testing room as long as they both are among the brands and models listed:
• Casio models FX-115, -250, -260 or -300
• Hewlett Packard models HP 9, 10, 12 or 30
• Texas Instruments models TI-30, -34, -35 or -36
Different versions of the above models will be permitted. For example, the HP-30S and TI-30X calculators will be permitted, as they are versions of these models.
If the candidate does not have one of the approved calculators, he or she should use the online calculator that is part of the exam. Test centers do not provide calculators or allow candidates to bring in non-approved models.
Make sure you know how to use your calculator(s) so you do not waste valuable time trying to understand how to use it once the examination clock starts. It is a good idea to practice working solutions and to be able to recall the correct calculator procedures.
Remember, solutions to computational items usually are rounded. You should select the answer closest to the computed value.
Obtaining Information on the Body of Knowledge Draw on your experience and on professional and study references in your own library, a company library, or a public library. BCSP maintains a list of examination references for
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each certification at bcsp.org/Resources/ Review-and-Study-Sources. Examination items are not necessarily taken directly from these sources. However, BCSP believes these references represent the breadth and depth of coverage of safety, health, and environmental practice.
BCSP Online Self-Assessment It is essential for you to compare your knowledge against what is contained in the examination blueprint. One way to do this is by using a self- evaluation method. A self-evaluation helps determine how well you know various subjects.
BCSP offers an online self-assessment for all certifications. The self-assessment can help diagnose how well you know the body of knowledge, as well as to help refresh your test-taking skills.
The online self-assessment is based on the blueprint described in this guide and is half the length of a full examination.
The online self-assessment allows six (6) months access, during which time users have unlimited assessment attempts. Results from each attempt are provided, and a results history is maintained so candidates may evaluate their progress.
Note: The self-assessment is designed to assist the candidate in evaluating their strengths and weaknesses, strategize test taking pace, and plan future studying accordingly. The self-assessment is not considered training or preparation in any manner.
To order a self-assessment, please log on to “My Profile” at bcsp.org to make the purchase.
Other Review and Study Sources A number of professional membership organizations, trade organizations, colleges, and universities, and private companies offer study courses, software, and materials to assist candidates when preparing for BCSP examinations. Because candidates for BCSP examinations often ask where to locate review courses and materials, BCSP maintains an online list strictly as a courtesy at bcsp.org/Resources/ Review-and-Study-Sources.
Beyond the written materials BCSP publishes, BCSP has no involvement in the development,
content, or distribution of any courses or materials associated with preparing for BCSP examinations or evaluating readiness. BCSP neither endorses the providers shown on the online list nor evaluates the providers or the providers’ materials for consistency with BCSP examination blueprints or with any aspect of any BCSP examination.
Candidates must contact the sources directly about materials, course schedules, fees, or matters related to satisfaction with their products or services.
Examination Integrity A key to a successful and respected credentialing program is examination security. Without it, a peer-operated credentialing program has little value. BCSP relies on the ethical behavior of candidates and certificants to maintain the security of BCSP examinations.
When those who hold credentials or those who are pursuing credentials reveal information about the content of BCSP examinations, they violate the agreement all candidates accept when they apply for certification and when they take an examination. Applicants, examination candidates, or certificants who reveal confidential information about the content of BCSP examinations through any means also violate the BCSP Disciplinary Action Policy and the BCSP Code of Ethics located at bcsp.org/About.
BCSP pursues legal actions against organizations, individuals not seeking certification, and individuals who fraudulently claim or misrepresent their intent to seek certification, who reveal information about the content of BCSP examinations. Penalties include permanently barring individuals from pursuing the credential and revoking the certifications and interim designations of those who have status with BCSP, in addition to other legal remedies.
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Computer-Based Testing The STS examination uses computer-based testing, with one item appearing on the screen at a time. You will simply use a mouse to point to the desired answer and click on it to select it. Answers can be changed the same way.
You can mark items to return to later or simply skip them and move to the next item. At the end of the examination, there is a table of items and answers selected. The table also shows skipped and marked items. You can return to any item by simply clicking on the item number.
Prior to beginning the actual examination, there is a tutorial. Your examination clocks begins when you officially commence with the examination itself. After completing the examination, you will select to end the exam to formally submit your examination for scoring. You will receive results before you leave the testing center facility.
You will have TWO (2) hours to complete the STS examination. Examinations are closed book, and accessing external reference materials during your examination is not permitted. For use during the examination, the testing center will provide you with materials for working out calculations by hand.
Refer to the Pearson VUE Computer-Based Testing Brochure located at bcsp.org for more details and requirements.
Scheduling Your Exam Once you have purchased your examination, BCSP will send you information on scheduling your examination with a Pearson VUE testing center. It is important that when you schedule, you do so on Pearson VUE’s website or by calling their national number. Local testing centers do not schedule examinations. All Pearson VUE testing sites are subject to change based on criteria provided by Pearson VUE. Please be sure to check regularly for available locations when scheduling an exam. For a complete list of testing center rules and procedures, visit PearsonVUE.com/BCSP.
General Description of the STS Examination All candidates for the STS must pass the STS examination to earn the respective credential.
The examination contains 100 multiple-choice items with four possible answers and only one correct answer. Data necessary to answer items are included in the item. Each item is independent and does not rely on the correct answer to any other item. Formulas will be embedded into each item that requires one.
STS Examination Blueprint BCSP examination blueprints are based on surveys of what safety practitioners do in practice. The STS examination is required for candidates to demonstrate knowledge of safety practice at the STS level. Note that the blueprint covers topics for the examination, but that the actual examinations will include 25% industry- specific questions.
The top levels, called domains, represent the major functions performed by safety practitioners at the STS level. Within each domain are lists of knowledge areas and skills necessary for carrying out the task in that domain. Each task heading is accompanied by a percentage label which represents the proportion of the actual STS examination devoted to that task. The following pages describe the subject matter covered by the STS examination.
Examination Content Development and Revision BCSP updates examinations regularly. Items come from safety practitioners in practice. Before items are accepted into item banks, they go through rigorous technical, psychometric, and grammatical editing. Also, 10–15% of the items on BCSP examinations are experimental, and do not contribute to a candidate’s pass/ fail decision. BCSP analyzes the performance of these experimental items before including them as scored items.
CHAPTER 5 | EXAM OVERVIEW How BCSP Establishes the Minimum Passing Score BCSP uses a criterion-referenced procedure (the Modified Angoff Method) to establish minimum passing scores for examinations. This procedure ensures that the passing score is independent of scores for other candidates sitting for the examination and involves having a panel of experts rate each examination item with respect to the minimally qualified candidate. As examinations are modified on a regular basis, the minimum passing score is adjusted for the difficulty of items on the examination. Item performance is also evaluated regularly to ensure that BCSP examinations maintain the highest testing standards.
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STS3 EXAM BLUEPRINT The following two pages contain the entire STS3 Exam Blueprint.
EXAMINATION BLUEPRINT STS3
Board of Certified Safety Professionals E: [email protected] | W: bcsp.org
STS3 Examination Blueprint | V.2015.12.07
Domain 1 Safety Program Implementation • 13.8%
Knowledge of: 1. Job safety/hazard analysis process 2. Basic audit or inspection protocols and tools 3. Inspection requirements (e.g., machine guarding, hose, grinding wheels, ladders, safety showers, and eye wash stations) 4. Incident investigation techniques (e.g., root cause analysis, five whys, fishbone), documentation requirements, and corrective action implementation 5. Basic waste management (e.g., proper disposal of batteries, paint, and light bulbs)
Skill to: 1. Pre-plan work and manage cross-functional hazards associated with a project 2. Address changing conditions or tasks in the job safety/hazard analysis process 3. Effectively communicate in writing or verbally the findings of audits or inspections (e.g., follow-ups) 4. Recognize what is a potential violation relating to waste, emissions, or stormwater pollution (e.g., spills, releases)
Domain 2 Hazard Identification and Control • 47.1%
Knowledge of: 1. Hierarchy of controls (e.g., elimination, substitution, engineering, administrative, personal protective equipment [PPE]) 2. Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) (e.g., labels, safety data sheets [SDS], pictograms, signal words) 3. Energy isolation procedures (e.g., lockout/tagout) 4. Hazards and controls associated with handling and storing hazardous materials or chemicals 5. Safety systems/interlocks (e.g., electrical systems, critical support systems) 6. Hazards and controls associated with working around pressurized systems (e.g., steam systems) 7. Confined space requirements (e.g., identification, permits, entry, rescue) 8. Hazards and controls associated with working at heights (e.g., fall prevention and protection methods) 9. Hazards and controls associated with walking/working surfaces (e.g., slips, trips, and falls) 10. Hazards and controls associated with elevated work platforms (e.g., aerial lift, scaffolding, lifts, stairways) 11. Requirements for operating and inspecting power industrial equipment/trucks (PIT), including forklifts (e.g., checklists, certifications, competencies, pedestrian safety) 12. Hazards and controls associated with hand and power tools (e.g., hammers, grinders) 13. Hazards and controls associated with working around moving parts and pinch points (e.g., machine guarding, pulleys) 14. Hazards associated with housekeeping (e.g., materials storage, clutter, staging, fire hazards) 15. Hazards and controls associated with hot work (e.g., welding, burning, cutting, grinding) 16. Safety operations associated with cranes and lifting devices (e.g., pre-operation inspection, checking manufacturer use standards, chain fall, load ratings) 17. Safety procedures associated with rigging and hoisting (e.g., inspection of rigging equipment, load limitations of rigging, use of tag lines) 18. Types and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) 19. Electrical safe work practices (e.g., arc flash, temporary power cord safety, ground fault circuit interrupter [GFCI]) 20. Hazards and controls associated with excavations (e.g., depth, distance, barricades, spoil pile location, basic soil classifications, emergency exits) 21. Basic concepts in ergonomics (e.g., proper lifting techniques, repetitive stress or injury, neutral posture) 22. Office safety procedures (e.g., only open one file cabinet drawer at a time, kitchen appliance safety) 23. Safety procedures associated with motor vehicle operation (e.g., seat belts, loading docks, chocking of wheels) 24. Safety procedures associated with heavy equipment operation (e.g., front-end loaders, backhoes, excavators) 25. Hazards associated with using technology while working (e.g., distraction caused by use of personal electronic devices) 26. Hazards and controls associated with compressed gas storage and use (e.g., fuel gas, oxygen storage, ammonia tanks, liquefied petroleum gas cylinders)
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Board of Certified Safety Professionals E: [email protected] | W: bcsp.org
STS3 Examination Blueprint | V.2015.12.07
Domain 3 Health Hazards and Basic Industrial Hygiene • 9.2%
Knowledge of: 1. Chronic health hazards and controls (e.g., asbestos, lead, silica, mold, chromium-6) 2. Acute health hazards and controls (e.g., welding fume fever, poisoning, sensitivity, irritation) 3. Hazards and controls associated with hearing conservation 4. Environmental conditions that could impact worker health or safety (e.g., heat and cold stress)
Domain 4 Emergency Preparedness and Management • 11.5%
Knowledge of: 1. Fire protection methods and classifications (e.g., appropriate fire extinguishing method for materials) 2. Fire safety requirements (e.g., monthly inspections, fire extinguisher locations, fire exits, emergency lighting) 3. Emergency response plans and drills (e.g., natural disasters, weather, crisis, fire, alarms, evacuation, rescue procedures, workplace violence and security) 4. Basic first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and automated external defibrillator (AED) 5. Universal precautions (e.g., bloodborne pathogens)
Domain 5 Leadership, Communication, and Training • 18.4%
Knowledge of: 1. BCSP Code of Ethics 2. Conflict resolution techniques (e.g., how to de-escalate a situation) 3. Behavioral-based safety observations and programs 4. Training requirements (e.g., frequency, training needs) for a project or job task
Skill to: 1. Effectively communicate safety information to employees, management, contractors, or other affected personnel 2. Coach or mentor employees on safe behavior and practices 3. Correct unsafe acts or conditions (e.g., stop work and correct) 4. Influence behavior within a diverse and changing workforce (e.g., motivation techniques for different personalities or learning styles, ability to empathize with workers) 5. Recognize when negative reinforcement (e.g., discipline) or escalation is needed to deal with safety behavior issue 6. Recognize when to seek assistance in relation to a hazard or situation 7. Manage worker limitations and apply accommodations as required by company or regulatory standards (e.g., fit for duty, job restrictions) 8. Identify relevant compliance aspects of a project or job task (e.g., bloodborne pathogens, ladder safety)
CHAPTER 6 | EXAM SAMPLE QUESTIONS
What best describes a job safety analysis (JSA)?
A. A JSA is a method to advise management on identified hazards and unsafe work practices and to describe the corrective actions to be taken to eliminate them.
B. A JSA is a way to ensure that all necessary material safety data sheets are located in the work area.
C. A JSA is a method where employees participate in the identification of hazards and unsafe work practices and implement measures to reduce the associated risks.
D. A JSA is the way to identify the correct tools and procedures for a job.
A masonry crew uses a mortar mixer that is powered by a gasoline engine. A V-belt drive runs between the motor sheave and a sheave attached to the gear mechanism for the drum. What hazard requiring guarding does the belt drive exhibit?
A. Point of operation
B. Shearing
C. Pinch or nip point
D. Cutting
Once a supervisor reads the operating manuals for new equipment, what should the supervisor do with them?
A. Review the manuals with the employees who will be using the new equipment.
B. Give the manuals to the designated safety officer.
C. Store the manuals in the work area, and require the employees who will use the new equipment to read the manuals before using the equipment.
D. Develop a job safety analysis for the new equipment.
When one or more employees enter a permit- required confined space, what must be shown on the permit?
A. The date the entry employees were last trained in confined space entry
B. Descriptions and manufacturers of the personal protective equipment used for the confined space entry
C. The management point-of-contact for the organization that controls the confined space
D. The measured levels of oxygen and airborne flammable and toxic materials present in the confined space
Examination Item Samples The following items illustrate only the style and format typical of items on the STS examination. Not all STS examination domain areas are represented by these sample items. Please note it is essential for you to read and understand the STS examination blueprint found in Chapter 5 so you have a complete awareness of the depth and breadth of all of the subject matter appearing on the actual STS examination.
Note: None of the following items are on the examination nor do they reflect specific content.
1.
2.
3.
4.
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eSafetySource Registration. BCSP offers the opportunity for BCSP certification and designation holders to register on the electronic safety source registry, indicating their areas of specialization.
Membership Level. Individuals may use the STS credential to qualify for the highest level of membership in professional safety societies. After achieving the STS credential, check with the safety and health organizations in which you hold memberships to see if you qualify for a status change.
Title Protection and Laws Involving the BCSP Credentials. Some states have enacted title protection laws which restrict anyone from claiming to hold a BCSP certification without having duly obtained them from BCSP. Check your state government website for more details.
Use of the STS Title It is important to know how to use your STS title correctly. The “Safety Trained Supervisor” title and the letters “STS” are registered certification marks issued to BCSP by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. They can only be used when authorized for a period specifically designated by BCSP. There are guidelines for displaying your STS credential properly.
Examples of correct use:
• Robert A. Smith, STS
• Robert A. Smith, Safety Trained Supervisor
The STS credential is awarded to individuals, not companies, and should only be used with individuals’ names.
The STS credential may be used only for the period for which use is authorized. Use expires if you have not paid the annual renewal fee or have not met Recertification requirements for the STS credential that you hold. Use of these titles beyond the authorized period (without
Features and Benefits of Obtaining BCSP Credentials Wallet Card. Upon certification and each year when you pay the required annual renewal fee, a wallet card is made available which shows you are certified. The wallet card is the official documentation of certification. You will have access to print your wallet card instantly from your profile.
Wall Certificate. When you achieve the STS credential, BCSP issues a wall certificate suitable for framing. Should you lose or damage your wall certificate, BCSP will replace it for a nominal fee. Visit “My Profile” on the BCSP website to order.
Access to BCSP’s Career Center. Many employers post open job positions seeking qualified safety practitioners. With a BCSP credential, you may post your resume online and employers have access to view your resume and contact you if you wish.
BCSP eNewsletter Subscription. As a BCSP certificant, you will receive the quarterly BCSP eNewsletter. The BCSP eNewsletter contains information about important changes which may affect BCSP certifications and designations, information about certificate holders, and professional safety practice information. Current issues and back issues are located on the BCSP website.
BCSP Annual Report. The BCSP Annual Report is another important publication you will receive electronically. It contains summarized data about STS certificants and the annual audited financial report and can be found on the BCSP website at bcsp.org/About.
BCSP Directories. BCSP publishes directories of individuals who currently hold BCSP certifications and designations. An abbreviated format, containing names, cities, and states, appears on the BCSP website and allows viewers to confirm if a person currently holds a BCSP certification or designation.
CHAPTER 7 | AFTER ACHIEVING CERTIFICATION What is the primary reason for conducting a safety inspection?
A. To ensure compliance with all fire codes
B. To ensure that safety rules are being followed
C. To identify unsafe conditions and practices
D. To discover and protect against hazards
A work environment where safe work practices and habits are part of the culture starts with a commitment by the organization’s:
A. Safety managers and coordinators
B. Safety committee
C. Top management
D. Line employees
Answer Key
1. C 2. C 3. A
4. D 5. C 6. C
1. The correct answer comes from of National Safety Council, Supervisors’ Safety Manual, 9th Edition.
2. The correct answer is found in several sources such as Supervisors’ Safety Manual published by the National Safety Council.
3. The answer is found in the Supervisors’ Safety Manual published by the National Safety Council.
4. Answer found in Accident Prevention Manual: Administration and Programs published by National Safety Council.
5. The answer is found in the Supervisors’ Safety Manual published by the National Safety Council.
6. Top management initiates an organization’s culture change. Through top management’s commitment, line supervisors and line employees implement the culture change. This concept is found in the National Safety Council’s Accident Prevention Manual and Supervisors’ Safety Manual.
References to Questions
5.
6.
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complying with renewal or recertification requirements) constitutes unauthorized use of the credential.
You may use this credential on your business cards, resume, and correspondence or with your signature. You may use your STS credential virtually anywhere you use your name.
Example of proper company use:
ABC Safety Company provides the latest safety services. Employees holding the Safety Trained Supervisor (STS) certification include Robert A. Smith, STS and Mary A. Jones, STS.
Example of improper company use:
ABC Safety Company, providing safety services by Safety Trained Supervisors.
Maintaining Your Certification In order to retain your certification, you must:
• Inform BCSP when your mail or email address changes
• Pay your annual fee
• Complete recertification requirements
Changing Your Name. If you change your name through marriage or other court proceedings, you may request a name change by contacting [email protected]. Additionally, you must provide a copy of the court record or marriage certificate in order for BCSP to register the change.
Paying Your Annual Renewal Fee. The authority to use the STS title is valid for one year. It must be renewed annually. You will receive a prorated fee for the remainder of the year in which you pass the examination. Each following year, BCSP will send you a notice when your annual renewal fee is due. BCSP gives you several options for paying the fee online via a credit card or by phone. After receiving your payment, BCSP will have a receipt and wallet card available to print. For a list of current fees, visit bcsp.org/Certifications/Safety- Certifications-at-a-Glance.
Meeting Recertification Requirements. The recertification program helps STS certificants keep up with changes affecting safety practice. The program complies with requirements of BCSP’s national accrediting organizations.
Every five years (one cycle) you must achieve three (3) points or 30 hours of safety and health training.
At the end of the five-year period, you must submit the points/training hours you earned during that cycle. Only points earned during a recertification cycle count toward that cycle. BCSP randomly selects 5% of those who submit their points for an audit. While documentation to prove points is not required with the initial submission, the audit procedure requires you have proof of the points claimed. It is important that you keep records to verify your recertification activities.
Additional details of the recertification program appear in the Recertification Guide. You may download the Recertification Guide on the BCSP website to help you through the process. You will want to refer to the website regularly for the most up-to-date information.
Reinstatement If you fail to pay your annual renewal fee on time or fail to achieve the required recertification points every five years, BCSP will send you a notice that your credential has been invalidated and you no longer hold the STS credential.
You may seek reinstatement online through “My Profile” at bcsp.org. Reinstatement must be by 12/31 of the same year you are invalidated. Reinstatement includes paying a reinstatement fee and complying with the current recertification requirements. Otherwise, you will be required to apply as a new candidate and meet all of the requirements in place at the time of your application.
Career Interruptions While holding the STS credential, you may face situations which affect your ability to maintain your certification. You may experience an interruption in your safety career, such as moving to a job which is not in the safety profession, taking time out to be a parent, student or soldier, having an extended health problem, or being unemployed. BCSP has established some options to help deal with these types of situations.
Leave of Absence and Extensions. You may seek a leave of absence or an extension if a career interruption will affect your ability to meet
Individuals Using an STS Credential Without Authority BCSP has established procedures for challenging individuals known to use the Safety Trained Supervisor credential without having obtained it or after they lost it for failure to pay annual renewal fees or meet recertification requirements.
In order to establish someone is using the credential without authority, BCSP must have the original document (or a copy) showing where the individual is using the title. Most often the unauthorized use occurs online, on a business card, resume, business letterhead, brochure or similar publication, or with a signature. To initiate action against the individual using the credential without authority, BCSP also needs the individual’s current mailing address.
BCSP relies on those finding potential unauthorized uses to report them and provide the documentation showing the use of these titles. BCSP will not disclose the name of the person or organization reporting potential unauthorized uses.
After receiving documentation of a potential unauthorized use case, BCSP takes steps to challenge that individual and seeks to correct any record-keeping error on the part of BCSP. Legal counsel for BCSP may participate in the procedures.
Those who have used BCSP titles without authority may be barred from pursuing STS certification for five years. Their names are also published on the BCSP website. Other penalties may be applied. BCSP reserves the right to use the courts in protecting use of the STS credential.
Criminal Convictions BCSP’s criminal conviction policy appears on the BCSP website. It applies to BCSP certification holders. The policy also covers convictions by other certifications and licensing bodies for unauthorized use of designations. It requires STS certificants to report new convictions which can result in BCSP disciplinary proceedings.
recertification requirements. Please refer to the Recertification Guide for detailed information.
Annual Renewal Fee Waiver While Unemployed. If you become unemployed and are unable to pay your annual renewal fee, you may request in writing a one-time waiver of the annual renewal fee.
Retired STS Certificants Certificants who are retiring can hold their certifications in retired status should they meet the following requirements:
• They have held certification a minimum of ten (10) years.
• They have completed two (2) recertification cycles.
To maintain a certification in retired status:
• Safety practice is not required.
• No more than 200 hours of safety practice annually is allowed.
• A Retired Annual Renewal Fee is required each year (beginning with 2018 renewal(s)).
A certificant holding a certification in retired status must indicate their status as in the following examples:
• Robert A. Smith, STS Retired
• Robert A. Smith, STS (Retired)
• Robert A. Smith, STS Ret.
• Robert A. Smith, Safety Trained Supervisor (Retired)
Protecting the STS Credential and Logo Because BCSP has registered its logos and titles, it has a solid position for challenging BCSP title and/or logo infringement. There are several legal theories and considerations involved. Registration itself does not provide absolute protection from others using similar acronyms or titles. BCSP does not have exclusive use of the acronym. BCSP continually challenges those uses which can be confusing to the public or for which there are legal grounds to make such challenges.
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Discipline Procedures BCSP authorizes individuals to use the STS credential when they meet requirements for achieving and retaining the credential. BCSP also has a responsibility to withdraw that authorization if individuals fail to pay annual renewal fees, fail to meet recertification requirements, or violate BCSP Disciplinary Action Policy or the BCSP Code of Ethics. The BCSP Disciplinary Action Policy contains rules on disciplinary procedures and grounds for action. The complete BCSP Disciplinary Action Policy is located at bcsp.org/ About.
Appeals You may appeal decisions related to earning and maintaining BCSP credentials. Requests for appeal must be submitted to the Chief Executive Officer in writing and in accordance to the current appeals policy located online at bcsp. org/About.
Promoting the STS BCSP uses several methods to promote the STS credential and to encourage safety practitioners to pursue them. You may volunteer to assist in these activities. Please contact BCSP or visit the BCSP website to determine what materials are available.
Request a Returnable Banner Display. Use of BCSP banner displays helps promote BCSP and the STS certification. They are ideal for meetings, local and regional conferences or educational programs of local professional groups and companies. BCSP pays for shipping to and from events. To request a display, fill out the Display and Literature Request Form located at bcsp.org/ Resources/Articles-Presentations, or contact BCSP.
Promotional Materials. There is a variety of complimentary literature about all of the BCSP credentials, qualifications and procedures, and examinations. Most BCSP publications are available on the BCSP website as downloadable PDFs. To request literature, please fill out the Display and Literature Request Form located at bcsp.org/Resources/Articles-Presentations, or contact BCSP.
Presentation Materials. PowerPoint presentations about the safety profession and the BCSP credentials are located on the BCSP website at bcsp.org/Resources/Articles- Presentations.
Mentor Program. Created specifically to recognize certificants’ roles in assisting the career development of others, the mentor program helps bring current credential holders and those looking to pursue certification together.
The mentor program rewards those who become mentors and ensures safety practitioners who perform quality work are certified. By having your mentee fill out the Professional Advancement Mentor Form and submit it by fax or email at the time that they apply online, BCSP recognizes mentors and their work with their peers, colleagues, and other safety practitioners. More information can be found at bcsp.org/Resources/Mentoring.
Maintaining Your Mail and Email Address As a STS, you are solely responsible to keep BCSP informed of your current mail and email address. If either address changes, you must notify BCSP. You could lose a STS certification if annual renewal notices and other important information do not reach you.
Approved by the BCSP Board of Directors November 2, 2012 Effective January 1, 2013
Code of Ethics This code sets forth the code of ethics and professional standards to be observed by holders of documents of certification conferred by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. Certificants shall, in their professional activities, sustain and advance the integrity, honor, and prestige of the profession by adherence to these standards.
Standards: 1. HOLD paramount the safety and health of
people, the protection of the environment and protection of property in the performance of professional duties and exercise their obligation to advise employers, clients, employees, the public, and appropriate authorities of danger and unacceptable risks to people, the environment, or property.
2. BE honest, fair, and impartial; act with responsibility and integrity. Adhere to high standards of ethical conduct with balanced care for the interests of the public, employers, clients, employees, colleagues and the profession. Avoid all conduct or practice that is likely to discredit the profession or deceive the public.
3. ISSUE public statements only in an objective and truthful manner and only when founded upon knowledge of the facts and competence in the subject matter.
4. UNDERTAKE assignments only when qualified by education or experience in the specific technical fields involved. Accept responsibility for their continued professional development by acquiring and maintaining competence through continuing education, experience, professional training and keeping current on relevant legal issues.
5. AVOID deceptive acts that falsify or misrepresent their academic or professional qualifications. Not misrepresent or exaggerate their degree of responsibility in or for the subject matter of prior assignments. Presentations incident to the solicitation of employment shall not misrepresent pertinent facts concerning employers, employees, associates, or past accomplishments with the intent and purpose of enhancing their qualifications and their work.
6. CONDUCT their professional relations by the highest standards of integrity and avoid compromise of their professional judgment by conflicts of interest. When becoming aware of professional misconduct by a BCSP certificant, take steps to bring that misconduct to the attention of the Board of Certified Safety Professionals.
7. ACT in a manner free of bias with regard to religion, ethnicity, gender, age, national origin, sexual orientation, or disability.
8. SEEK opportunities to be of constructive service in civic affairs and work for the advancement of the safety, health and well- being of their community and their profession by sharing their knowledge and skills.
MISSION BCSP sets and certifies technical competency criteria for safety, health, and environmental practitioners worldwide; enhancing careers,
advancing the profession, protecting the public.
VISION Creating a safer world through safety, health,
and environmental certification.
BOARD OF CERTIFIED SAFETY PROFESSIONALS 8645 Guion Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268 USA P: +1 317-593-4800 | F: +1 317-593-4400 bcsp.org
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ISO/IEC 17024 Personnel Certification Program
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