How to Become a Maryland Health Inspector

Health inspectors analyze work environments for health and safety hazards.

All health inspectors must meet uniform national requirements. The state of Maryland, therefore, does not have requirements that differ from those of other states. Health inspectors or, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) classifies them, "occupational health and safety inspectors," or "specialists," help to prevent harm to workers, property, the environment and the general public. A Maryland health inspector works for a federal, state or local governmental agency.

Things You'll Need

• Bachelor's degree or associate's degree
• Master's degree
• Work experience
• Professional certification

Instructions

1. Earn a bachelor's degree. The BLS recommends a degree in occupational health safety or a related field, such as engineering, biology or chemistry.

2. Earn an associate's degree in safety and health. The Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) accepts either a bachelor's degree in any field or an associate's degree in safety, health and environment for those seeking professional certification from that certifying agency.

3. Earn a master's degree in radiation science, hazardous materials management and control, risk communications, principles of ergonomics, or respiratory protection. A master's degree will allow you to specialize in a particular field of occupational health.

4. Get on-the-job training. Many in this field combine classroom and on-the-job training when professional safety is the primary function of the position. Work experience is much more valuable than a strictly academic background.

5. Get certified. This is optional, but will improve your chances of getting a job, or continuing to advance in your career. Work experience is a requirement for BCSP certification and for other certifications as well.

6. Get a job at a federal, state or local government agency. Health inspectors hired by government agencies conduct safety inspections, impose fines, analyze work environments and look for hazards. They may also conduct safety training for employees.

Tips & Warnings

• There is extensive travel involved with this job, especially for employees of the federal government. Those hired by private companies may spend more time in their offices or at one particular site, improving conditions and verifying the company meets health and safety standards. The BCSP is only one certifying organization. Others include The American Board of Health Physicists, the American Indoor Air Quality Council and the American Board of Industrial Hygiene.

References

• Burea of Labor Statistics: Occupational Health and Safety Specialists
• Board of Certified Safety Specialists: The Education Standard

Resources

• Board of Certified Safety Professionals: 7 Steps to CSP Certification