Tuesday, 29 May 2012

Online Construction Safety Degrees: Program Overviews

Degree programs for construction management or construction technology include construction safety classes, but programs devoted exclusively to construction safety aren't traditionally available at this level, much less online. However, certificate programs in this subject area do exist and can be completed entirely through the Web.

Overview of Online Construction Safety Certificate Programs

Construction safety education is commonly offered at the certificate level. Some colleges offer Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) classes online while others offer their own comprehensive distance-learning construction safety certificate programs. Coursework for both types of program is appropriate for those working in construction who have some safety responsibilities. A college that offers construction safety courses through OSHA is more likely to focus only on safety-related subjects, while a school with its own program might incorporate construction or business classes, such as ergonomics or security.

Online Classroom Formats and Technical Requirements

Certificate candidates are typically required to take 8-9 courses. Online construction safety certificate programs may be comprised of lectures, assignments and group discussions. Schools usually make online courses accessible from their websites using course management software. Students log in to participate in lectures, group projects and discussions.
Online, open-enrollment programs allow students take classes at their own pace. In this scenario, participants study independently and take online quizzes to demonstrate their mastery of the material. Open-enrollment programs may require participants to download class modules from the school's website and save it on their computer. An up-to-date computer with access to e-mail and the Internet are the basic requirements to take classes online. Students may also need to install plug-in software to open PDF documents and view media files.

List of Typical Construction Safety Courses

Construction safety certificate programs typically don't include general education courses. Besides classes on accident prevention, safety planning and safety management, programs might offer specific safety classes for scaffolding and excavation.

Introduction to Safety Management Course

Students learn about the role of a safety expert. They learn how to collect and evaluate safety data as well as how to design and manage a safety program. The course introduces OSHA regulations and methods for applying them in the workplace.

Accident Investigation Methodology Course

This course provides techniques for smooth and streamlined accident investigation. It covers documentation and record-keeping while discussing how to detect oversights, deficiencies, omissions and errors.

Safety Training Methods Course

Covering the latest training techniques, this class teaches a variety of learning styles and explores available training media. Strategies tend to emphasize visual aids, such as handouts and presentations. Lessons also include cost management tips.

Job and Salary Prospects for Graduates

Construction safety education is useful for construction site leads and construction managers. Those interested in becoming a construction safety specialist may need the broader general construction education afforded by an associate's or bachelor's degree program.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), approximately 41% of occupational health and safety specialists work for local, state and federal government organizations (www.bls.gov). For this job title, the BLS reports an average job growth of 11% from 2008-2018, which is an average rate. Payscale.com notes that as of July 2010, construction managers earned $53,706-$80,645.

Certification and Continuing Education Opportunities

Graduates can pursue professional certification through organizations such as the Board of Certified Safety Professionals, National Association of Safety Professionals or Council on Certification of Health, Environmental and Safety Technologists. Certification is available at various levels depending on an individual's goals, experience and education. Related educational options include associate's or bachelor's degree programs in construction management or construction technology. These programs may be partially or wholly available online. Some credits from a certificate program may be transferable.

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