I am writing to share a summary of the outcomes from the Governing Board’s most recent meetings and to provide certificants with insight into the strategic direction approved by the Board.
In March the Board met virtually and held a working session focused on stewardship, future readiness, and ensuring that BCRSP continues to fulfill its public interest mandate while responding thoughtfully to a rapidly evolving occupational health and safety landscape.
Strategic direction and priorities
The Board revised the BCRSP’s 2026–2029 Strategic Plan, which sets a clear direction for the organization over the next three years. The plan reinforces BCRSP’s role as Canada’s certification authority for occupational health and safety professionals, grounded in rigorous standards, ethical practice, and ISO accreditation.
Looking ahead, the Board articulated a practical vision of BCRSP as a trusted authority on OHS competence. One that not only maintains the integrity of CRSP® and CRST® certification, but also strengthens recognition among employers, regulators, educators, and the public.
Three strategic imperatives will guide our work:
First, strengthening awareness and influence. While BCRSP certifications are well respected within the profession, the Board acknowledged the need for greater visibility among employers and decision-makers. A dedicated marketing strategy is being built to focus on demonstrating value, including return on investment for employers.
Second, the Board is dedicating time on its agenda to think through how we may provide more value to certificants, and the OHS community through micro-credentials. We are exploring what this could mean and what could be developed, without encroaching on existing offerings in the marketplace. These offerings will be intended to respond to emerging topics, support lifelong learning, and attract new entrants to the profession while protecting the integrity of core certifications.
Third, examining legal and structural options to support innovation. As BCRSP explores activities beyond traditional certification, the Board agreed to undertake further legal exploration to ensure appropriate structures are in place. This work will focus on enabling innovation while safeguarding accreditation, governance standards, and public trust.
Governance, risk, and system integrity
The Board also approved several governance and system enhancements to support accountability and resilience. These included updates to the management system manual, examination processes, impartiality and risk management policies, and committee governance frameworks. Together, these actions strengthen oversight, consistency, and ISO alignment.
The Board approved revisions to the risk registry and impartiality controls, reinforcing BCRSP’s commitment to transparency, evidence-based decision-making, and protection of certification integrity.
Examination and certification systems
Several decisions focused on continuous improvement of certification processes, including enhancements to examination form management, volunteer structures, and exam practices. These changes are designed to support fairness, security, and reliability, while allowing BCRSP to respond more nimbly to growth and operational complexity.
The Board also approved updates affecting volunteer lifecycle management and committee terms of reference, reflecting an ongoing commitment to clarity, consistency, and respect for volunteer contributions.
Looking ahead
The Board’s work in March reflects a balance between stewardship and evolution. The CRSP® and CRST® designations remain central to BCRSP’s mandate and reputation. At the same time, the organization must continue to adapt to emerging risks, workforce change, technology, and employer expectations.
On behalf of the Governing Board, I want to thank our volunteers, certificants, and partners for their continued trust and engagement. Your professionalism and commitment to health and safety are the foundation of BCRSP’s work.
We look forward to sharing updates as the strategic plan is implemented and as further decisions are made.
Larry Masotti, MA, B.Ed., CRSP
Chair, Governing Board
Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals