STS: An Essential Credential in Workplace Safety

The acronym STS stands for Safety Trained Supervisor, a certification offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). This credential attests to the knowledge and competence of front-line leaders regarding key safety processes such as hazard recognition, risk controls, incident reporting, and understanding regulatory responsibilities that form the bedrock of workplace safety. While the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates employers to provide necessary training for identified hazards, the STS certification complements these requirements by confirming a supervisor's competence, adding an extra layer of assurance.

The BCSP’s structured eligibility, examination, and recertification processes ensure that supervisors maintain their knowledge and skills. Applicants must meet specific experience requirements and undergo formal safety courses before sitting for the examination. Upon certification, supervisors are expected to pursue ongoing education to keep up with current industry practices. This system plays a critical role in ensuring uniform safety performance across various operations. Comprehensive details about the application process and certification handbooks can be found on BCSP’s official STS webpage.

Key areas covered by the STS credential include:

• Identification of hazards and conducting risk assessments
• Implementing controls in line with the Hierarchy of Controls
• Awareness of OSHA compliance and supervisor responsibilities
• Facilitating Job Safety Analysis/Job Hazard Analysis
• Conducting incident reporting, investigations, and corrective measures
• Engaging in safety communication, coaching, and team participation

For those in construction, BCSP offers a variant known as the Safety Trained Supervisor Construction (STSC) credential, which caters specifically to industry needs. While these credentials do not replace OSHA training or other company-specific procedures, they provide a trusted verification of a supervisor's capability. This assurance is valuable for buyers, prime contractors, and auditors alike. For more detailed information on employer responsibilities and training, OSHA’s official site offers valuable resources. Interested individuals can visit BCSP’s page for an overview of the STS program and the NIOSH website for insights into the Hierarchy of Controls.

Sources:

• OSHA Responsibilities and Training
• BCSP STS Credential Overview
• NIOSH Hierarchy of Controls

The Role of a Safety Trained Supervisor (STS)

For organizations, a Safety Trained Supervisor (STS) forms the proactive link between safety policy and everyday practice, playing a critical role in minimizing workplace incidents and operational interruptions. By covering areas such as risk anticipation, control measure selection, and clear crew communication, these supervisors align team efforts with OSHA’s emergency action planning and hazard management standards. National Safety Council research highlights how supervisors drive vital safety indicators, such as near-miss reporting, behavioral observations, and strategic safe work planning, resulting in improved safety performance. This role often encompasses contractor oversight, managing permit-to-work systems, and steering change management efforts.

Certification from the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) for a Safety Trained Supervisor affirms expertise in key areas like regulatory compliance, hazard identification, incident analysis, and adult-learning techniques for effective toolbox discussions and training sessions. A thorough job hazard analysis, prudent energy isolation, effective coordination in confined spaces, and diligent PPE management are central to ensuring that safety measures adequately address risk levels and remain in optimum condition. Supervisors anchor their activities to OSHA mandates and NIOSH guidelines by maintaining documentation integrity, conducting metric reviews, and managing workplace changes. Studies by the National Safety Council underscore practical techniques that solidify ongoing safety enhancements.

The STS Test

The STS examination by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals gauges competence across a range of areas, including safety program execution, hazard control, regulatory frameworks, communication efficacy, and emergency planning. Eligibility criteria comprise designated safety training hours coupled with pertinent supervisory experience, detailed in the BCSP's STS certification eligibility and exam outline.

STS in Emergency Response

In emergency situations, a Safety Trained Supervisor spearheads the on-site execution of emergency plans, orchestrates evacuation or sheltering protocols, liaises with incident command, and leads drills. After-action reviews ensure adherence to OSHA guidelines and FEMA’s Incident Command System standards, ensuring robust emergency preparedness.

References:

• OSHA Emergency Action Plans (29 CFR 1910.38)
• National Safety Council
• Board of Certified Safety Professionals – STS
• NIOSH (CDC)
• FEMA ICS

Frequently Asked Questions about STS

Addressed below are common inquiries on the Safety Trained Supervisor (STS) credential and its contribution to workplace safety.

• What is STS? This credential from the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) certifies supervisory safety competence. Learn more.
• Who qualifies? Eligible candidates possess documented Safety, Health, and Environmental (SH&E) training, plus verifiable leadership experience. Find current requirements here.
• Is it legally required? No federal legislation mandates STS; OSHA emphasizes safety programs over job titles. Review OSHA guidelines.
• How does STS support workplace safety? Credentialed leaders enhance hazard recognition, risk reduction, and align with OSHA’s safety practices. Explore OSHA’s Guidelines for more.
• What does STS certification involve? It includes applying through BCSP, eligibility verification, and taking a computer-based exam with Pearson VUE. Refer to the Candidate Handbook.
• How long does preparation take? Many allocate 4–12 weeks for studying. Exam domains and references appear on BCSP’s page.
• Recertification requirements? BCSP mandates periodic renewal through continuing education within a five-year period. Details on the Recertification process.
• General vs Construction? This general-industry credential applies outside construction. STSC targets the construction sector. Learn more here.
• Fees? Information on fees and exam expenses is available on the BCSP’s Fee Schedule.
• Does it replace OSHA Outreach? STS does not substitute for OSHA’s Outreach Training when required by clients or regulations. Discover more about OSHA Outreach.