Certified Occupational Health & Safety Specialist (COHSS)
Occupational health and safety specialists examine a variety of work environments to ensure that safety regulations are being followed. They can find employment in a range of settings, including local, state, and federal governments, hospitals, and manufacturing. Job titles may include industrial hygienist, health physicist, and environmental protection specialist. As these professionals test the safety of various work environments, they sometimes put themselves in dangerous situations and must take special precautions to prevent injury.
Course Description
Occupational health and safety specialists examine a variety of work environments to ensure that safety regulations are being followed.
They can find employment in a range of settings, including local, state, and federal governments, hospitals, and manufacturing. Job titles may include industrial hygienist, health physicist, and environmental protection specialist.
As these professionals test the safety of various work environments, they sometimes put themselves in dangerous situations and must take special precautions to prevent injury.
Learning Objectives
By attending this course, Occupational Health and Safety Specialists will learn how to: Design an effective safety, health, and environmental program. Analyze work environments and design programs to control and eliminate hazards. Eliminate and prevent disease or injury caused by chemical, physical, radiological, and biological agents, or ergonomic factors that affect a worker’s comfort or fatigue. Conduct inspections and inform management of areas that may not comply with state and federal laws or employer policies. Advise management on the cost and effectiveness of safety and health programs.
Who Should Attend
Supervisors & Managers Safety, Health, and Environmental Professionals Site Safety, Health and Environmental Committee Members 213 Training Managers Industrial Hygienists Individuals associated with the federal agency's collateral duty safety and health personnel
Certified Occupational Health & Safety Specialist (COHSS)
Blueprint & Examination Guide
1. Overview
The Certified Occupational Health & Safety Specialist (COHSS) is an advanced certification designed to validate a professional's expertise in the respective field. This program covers essential principles, regulatory standards, and practical applications to ensure candidates are fully equipped to handle safety, compliance, and operational challenges.
2. Examination Parameters
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | 100 |
| Question Format | Multiple Choice |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Time Limit | 2 Hours |
| Delivery Method | Online Proctored / In-Person |
3. Prerequisites & Qualifications
Candidates must meet the following criteria before taking the examination:
- A minimum of 3 years of verifiable experience in the relevant field.
- Completion of an accredited training program related to the course.
- Current certification in First Aid/CPR (where applicable).
- A bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field is recommended but not required.
- Commitment to adhering to safety and regulatory standards.
4. Examination Domains
The examination is divided into the following core domains:
| Main Topic | Weightage | Number of Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Domain 1: Regulatory Requirements & Standards | 25% | 25 |
| Domain 2: Risk Assessment & Hazard Analysis | 20% | 20 |
| Domain 3: Safe Work Practices & PPE | 20% | 20 |
| Domain 4: Training & Incident Investigation | 20% | 20 |
| Domain 5: Compliance & Program Management | 15% | 15 |
5. Domain Breakdowns
Domain 1: Regulatory Requirements & Standards
Weight: 25%Candidates must understand the core principles of regulatory standards and their practical application in the workplace.
- Identify applicable safety and regulatory standards.
- Understand the hierarchy of safety controls.
- Implement standard compliance requirements.
- Demonstrate knowledge of relevant codes and annexes.
Domain 2: Risk Assessment & Hazard Analysis
Weight: 20%Candidates must be able to perform risk assessments and identify potential hazards.
- Conduct comprehensive risk assessments.
- Identify workplace hazards and potential risks.
- Determine the likelihood and severity of incidents.
- Implement effective risk mitigation strategies.
Domain 3: Safe Work Practices & PPE
Weight: 20%Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of safe work practices and the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Select and inspect appropriate PPE.
- Implement safe work procedures and protocols.
- Understand lockout/tagout and energy control procedures.
- Maintain a safe working environment.
Domain 4: Training & Incident Investigation
Weight: 20%Candidates must be able to develop training programs and investigate incidents effectively.
- Develop and deliver effective safety training.
- Investigate incidents and identify root causes.
- Document findings and implement corrective actions.
- Promote a culture of safety within the organization.
Domain 5: Compliance & Program Management
Weight: 15%Candidates must understand how to manage compliance programs and ensure ongoing adherence to standards.
- Develop and manage compliance programs.
- Conduct audits and inspections.
- Ensure continuous improvement in safety practices.
- Maintain accurate records and documentation.
6. Additional Information
- Recertification is required every 3 years.
- Candidates will receive a digital badge upon successful completion.
- Exam study materials and preparatory guides are available upon registration.
- For special accommodations, please contact our support team at least 2 weeks prior to the exam.
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