Chartered Fellows already had CPD requirements. Competence may be defined as 'the possession of sufficient knowledge, experience and skills to enable the person to recognise what needs to be done and to be able to carry out what needs to be done in the way in which a person competent in the activity would expect it to be done'. A competent person also has an appreciation of their own limitations. CPD is a continuing process of personal growth to enhance one's capabilities and to realise one's full potential as a professional by obtaining and developing a wide range of knowledge, experience and skills which are not normally acquired during initial training and which together develop one's competence.
Employers expect that professional staff stay abreast of current trends, changes and technology.
Certainly, where the health and safety professional acts as a consultant this is imperative to potential and existing employers or clients. For maintenance of the professional grades of membership, MSIA, FSIA and CFSA, these professional members must attain a given number of points over a 5 year period. These points may be attained in the categories of Active Safety Practice, Professional Service Activities, Research and Publication of Papers, Attendance at Seminars and Educational Programs and Other Activities. The 'Continuing Professional Development Record' must be submitted on a five yearly basis. The CPD program is explained in detail in the Log Book for Health and Safety Professionals.