Posted By Philip McAleenan Dear all, here's a thought Qualifications and experience do not necessarily make a person competent, nor indeed can they be considered sufficient in themselves as indicators of competence. Competence is the ability to consistently carry out to completion an operation without fault or without causing harm, Regards, Philip

Posted By Hazel Harvey Dave, I was on holiday in Portugal!

Posted By Richard Spencer Chris Conventional wisdom suggests that in any walk of life there are those that are recognised as professionals. A 3 or 4 year degree course is the first step for most technocrats / medicos / commercial / legal/military professionals. Membership of these ranks is governed by the standards set by the various institutions and registration if required is set by the state. Membership is strictly controlled and is the reality of the matter. These people are considered by the institutions and the state to be proficient in carrying out their profession and adhering to a code of conduct that is in some circumstances, if transgressed is subject to debarment. The stepping stone into a professional role is via an approved degree course. There is no exception to this rule. For chartered status for those that seek it is via higher education e.g. Master degree in subject of specialisation. For those institutions that don’t, progression to a specialist role is via further studies and the award of a title, such as in the medical/military profession. I believe the discussion so far has concerned itself with the pros and cons of non professional standing, or para-professional, which is the subject of this thread I believe. To discuss the role of a professional in the same terms as that of a para-professional is not in my view advancing the argument of a Health and Safety Professional and should not be continually confused. Other institutions have recognised the diversity of talent and standing and have addressed this with the provision of various grades within the institution. The dividing line between professional and para-professional has been ‘drawn in the sand’ by convention, and no amount of argument is going to change this. Simply put, if you wish to ensure that you are considered an OHS professional then my advise is to obtain an under graduate degree or graduate diploma or Masters degree in an OHS related subject such as OHS Systems Management, Ergonomics, Biomechanics, Hygiene, or an allied science. Richard - Master Applied Science (safety management)

Posted By Chris Abbott Thanks to everyone who has offered advice and such like - Hazel... I hear what you're saying, and it has occurred to me that the content of this course is.. ahem.. somewhat lacking. I don not believe that I will have a problem passing it. As a side issue, I have an interview with the BSC for a job that looks like a great way to start my new career going :) Of course... I have to get it first! ;) Dave, you're a star mate. Funny how your comment made me laugh and post this thread.. seems that you're the one that's keeping it alive! C