Defining an EH&S Professional: Who are we and where are we headed?

This presentation will attempt to define the term “EH&S Practitioner” and provide insight on where this profession is heading. The presenter authored a chapter in a recently published Multi-volume Safety Handbook Series by the American Society of Safety Engineers (June 2008) on “Defining the Safety Practitioner”. One of the most contentious debates in the safety profession is what qualifies one to work in the EH&S field. Some believe you need an educational background or degree in EH&S. Others believe holding a certification such as CSP or CIH qualifies. Still others believe that field/work experience trumps a formal education or certification. The pro's and con's of each viewpoint will be discussed.

Also presented will be the influence the EH&S profession has had on the dramatic decline in workplace injuries and deaths over the last century and a half. The EH&S profession has developed several skills for “selling safety” to upper management, supervisors, and workers. An overview of some of the most successful tool used to promote safe workplaces will be summarized. The presentation will conclude with an overview of several challenges facing the profession including an aging safety workforce, declining educational programs, and the challenge of working with a diverse workforce in an international business environment. A discussion of where the EH&S profession is headed will be discussed offering a vision for the EH&S field over the next quarter century.