Over the past five decades, countless volunteers, certificants, board members, staff, employers, and partners have helped build BCRSP into the respected organization it is today. Together, we have advanced professional certification, supported excellence in practice, and contributed to safer workplaces across Canada. As we looked back on that history, we also spent time looking ahead.
Through our recent strategic planning discussions, the Board considered how the profession is evolving, how expectations of certification bodies continue to grow, and how BCRSP can best serve both the profession and the public in the years to come. One question guided our conversations: do our mission and vision statements fully reflect who we are today and where we are headed?
That reflection led us to update both statements.
Our previous mission stated: "The BCRSP sets certification standards for the occupational health and safety profession."
Our new mission is: "The BCRSP defines and upholds professional competencies in occupational health and safety through credible credentials and standards."
Our previous vision stated: "Safe and healthy workplaces through certification."
Our new vision is: "The BCRSP is a trusted authority supporting an evolving profession contributing to healthy and safe workplaces and communities."
While the words have changed, the foundation has not. These new statements are rooted in the same values and purpose that have guided BCRSP for 50 years. They build on our history rather than replace it. What has changed is the way we describe our role.
Today, BCRSP does more than establish certification standards. We define professional competencies, uphold the integrity of our credentials, and support confidence in the professionals who hold them. The revised mission better reflects the responsibility entrusted to us and the work we carry out every day on behalf of certificants, employers, regulators, and the public. The new vision also recognizes something many of us see every day. Occupational health and safety professionals do more than influence workplaces. Their work has a positive impact that extends into homes, families, and communities. By supporting an evolving profession, we help create broader and lasting benefits for society.
The Board approached these changes thoughtfully and carefully. We considered our history, our strategic priorities, the needs of our interested parties, and the future of the profession. Most importantly, we wanted to ensure that our mission and vision continue to inspire confidence and provide a clear sense of direction for the years ahead.
As we enter our next chapter, I am proud of the strong foundation we have built together. I am equally excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.
Our commitment to professionalism, integrity, excellence, inclusion, and service to the public interest remains unwavering. Those principles have guided BCRSP throughout our first 50 years, and they will continue to guide us into the future.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Whether you are a certificant, volunteer, applicant, employer, partner, or supporter, your contribution has helped shape BCRSP's story. If you have questions about these changes, please email the BCRSP office.
Larry Masotti, MA, BEd, CRSP
BCRSP Governing Board Chair