To work as a occupational health and safety technician, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• complete moderate-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

Some employers require that occupational health and safety technicians have an associate’s degree or certificate from a community college or vocational school. Typical programs include courses in respiratory protection, hazard communication, and storage procedures.

Work experience

Experience as a safety professional may be required for many positions.

On-the-job training

Most occupational health and safety technicians receive on-the-job training. They learn about specific laws and inspection procedures and learn to recognize hazards. The length of training varies.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be environmental health and safety technicians. Training lasts 11 to 19 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.