CHST Exam for Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) Latest Update
The Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) examination, developed and administered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP), serves as a benchmark for professionals seeking to establish their credentials in the construction health and safety field. This examination reflects the latest standards, practices, and emerging trends in construction safety management, making it a vital step for individuals committed to ensuring workplace safety and health. In 2025, the CHST exam underwent significant updates to align with current industry practices and regulatory requirements, enhancing its relevance and rigor.
The CHST certification is designed for professionals who oversee safety and health programs in construction environments. It demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and expertise in identifying hazards, implementing safety measures, and ensuring compliance with occupational safety and health regulations. Achieving this certification provides a competitive edge, enhances professional credibility, and validates an individual’s commitment to maintaining high safety standards in construction projects.
The 2025 updates to the CHST exam reflect ongoing changes in construction safety practices, regulatory landscapes, and technological advancements. Key updates include:
The revised exam content outline now includes:
Emerging Technologies in Construction Safety: Integration of drones, wearable safety devices, and Building Information Modeling (BIM) in hazard detection and safety planning.
Psychological Safety: Addressing mental health, stress management, and fostering a culture of psychological well-being on construction sites.
Environmental Safety: Incorporating measures to mitigate environmental hazards, such as air quality management, noise control, and waste management.
Diversity and Inclusion: Ensuring safety practices consider diverse workforces and inclusivity in safety training and communication.
The CHST exam is structured around five key domains:
Program Management: Focuses on developing, implementing, and maintaining construction safety programs.
Workplace Safety and Health Practices: Covers hazard identification, risk assessment, and safety controls.
Regulatory Compliance: Emphasizes understanding and applying OSHA standards and other relevant regulations.
Education and Training: Highlights effective methods for delivering safety training and promoting awareness.
Communication and Leadership: Explores strategies for fostering a safety-first culture through leadership and communication.
The latest CHST exam incorporates a higher number of scenario-based questions to test candidates' practical application of knowledge. These questions require examinees to analyze complex situations and select the most effective solutions based on real-world construction safety challenges.
The exam reflects updates to industry standards, including:
OSHA’s Focus Four Hazards: Addressing falls, struck-by, caught-in/between, and electrocution risks.
ANSI/ASSP Standards: Covering topics like fall protection, confined spaces, and safety management systems.
Construction Safety Standards: Emphasizing compliance with up-to-date construction-specific safety regulations.
Candidates are now tested on their understanding of emerging technologies in construction safety, including:
Digital Tools: Proficiency in using software for risk assessment, incident tracking, and safety audits.
Automation and Robotics: Knowledge of automated machinery and its implications for workplace safety.
Remote Monitoring: Utilizing IoT devices and sensors to ensure continuous safety oversight.
BCSP has introduced new preparation resources tailored to the updated exam structure. These include:
Online practice exams and study guides.
Interactive learning modules focusing on scenario-based problem-solving.
Webinars and workshops conducted by industry experts.
A revamped CHST Exam Blueprint detailing the scope of the examination.
To qualify for the CHST exam, candidates must meet specific eligibility requirements:
Education: A minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent.
Experience: At least three years of professional safety work in construction, with 35% of job duties related to safety and health.
Application: Submit a detailed application through the BCSP website, including proof of education, experience, and any additional certifications.
The application process also involves a thorough review of credentials to ensure candidates meet the high standards set by BCSP. Once approved, candidates can schedule their exam through a designated testing center or opt for remote proctoring.
The CHST exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions, including:
Scenario-based questions.
Knowledge-based questions.
Application and analysis questions.
Candidates are given four hours to complete the exam. The scoring is based on a scaled system, with a minimum passing score determined through psychometric analysis. Results are provided immediately for computer-based exams, allowing candidates to receive instant feedback on their performance.
Achieving the CHST certification offers numerous benefits, including:
Professional Recognition: Establishes credibility and enhances career prospects in construction safety roles.
Increased Employability: Demonstrates a commitment to safety excellence, making candidates more attractive to employers.
Career Advancement: Opens doors to higher-level positions and greater responsibilities in safety management.
Knowledge Enhancement: Keeps professionals up-to-date with the latest safety practices and regulatory requirements.
Networking Opportunities: Provides access to a network of certified professionals and industry experts.
Success in the CHST exam requires thorough preparation. Candidates are encouraged to:
Understand the Exam Blueprint: Review the detailed content outline to identify key focus areas.
Utilize Study Resources: Take advantage of BCSP’s official study materials, practice exams, and webinars.
Join Study Groups: Collaborate with peers to share knowledge and strategies.
Attend Workshops: Participate in training sessions conducted by certified instructors.
Practice Time Management: Simulate exam conditions to improve time management and confidence.
Once certified, professionals must adhere to BCSP’s recertification requirements, which include earning 20 Recertification Points every five years. Points can be accrued through professional development activities such as attending workshops, completing advanced training, or contributing to industry publications. This ensures that certified individuals remain current with evolving safety standards and practices.
The CHST certification is a pivotal credential for construction safety professionals, reflecting their expertise, dedication, and ability to safeguard workplaces. With the latest updates to the CHST exam, BCSP reinforces its commitment to maintaining high standards and addressing the dynamic needs of the construction industry. Professionals who pursue and achieve this certification demonstrate a proactive approach to safety management, contributing significantly to the well-being of construction workers and the success of construction projects.