How to Study for the CHST, OHST, ASP, or CSP

A common question I see on LinkedIn goes something like this, "What is the best way to prepare for the CHST, OHST, ASP, CSP (fill in the blank)?". In my opinion the answer to this question is simple. Having passed the CHST, ASP, and CSP on the first try I feel like I have some good advice to offer. It is important that you know that I consider myself to be of average intelligence, and like many others I do not enjoy or look forward to taking exams.

I do however believe that if you follow my advice you can walk into any testing center and confidently sit for one of these exams. My first suggestion is to purchase W. David Yates (2015) book 'Safety Professional's Reference and Study Guide' (Second Edition). Read this book in your spare time cover to cover. This book makes challenging subjects easy to understand, it is also a comprehensive overview of everything a safety manager should know to do his or her job. The book covers everything from OSHA 300 Logs to Math Review to ionizing vs. non-ionizing radiation. My second suggestion is an important one, purchase the  directly from BCSP for the exam that you are studying for. It will take at least a week to receive the assessment in the mail so do not wait until the last minute to order and practice the self-assessment before your exam.

This will show you exactly what areas you are weak in and need to brush up on. You can then find the appropriate section in Yates (2015) book and study up (or feel free to utilize any of the other sources recommended in BCSP's Exam Blueprint). The self-assessment from BCSP can be purchased by visiting bcsp.org, click on "My Profile", and select "Purchase Self-Assessment" once logged in. My final suggestion, if you can afford it, is to enroll in a test prep class through an organization such as the ASSE. Think of it as an investment in your future. Good luck!

This article was originally on published on May 18, 2015. To read the original article visit this link: LinkedIn