Cooperation between CHS professionals and customers is more likely to occur within an established relationship. Attending professional conferences maintains and develops these relationships and provides a continuing education opportunity. The sessions of the Division of Chemical Health and Safety at ACS national meetings provide one such opportunity. Other organizations sponsor sessions or even entire conferences where CHS professionals from chemical suppliers and customers can meet. Yet they must communicate this information to people such as plant operators in industries that use but do not manufacture chemicals.
Credibility is determined by the audience's perception of how much the CHS professional knows.
Although professional credentials aid in establishing credibility, it is also highly dependent on the CHS professional's communication skills. A well-organized presentation that is professional, but not slick, is the primary determinant of credibility. The second issue, trust, is also related to presentation skills. To establish trust, the speaker must present CHS information clearly and honestly in a well-organized fashion. The CHS professional should respond openly and honestly to questions and not appear defensive.